Old Ursuline Convent Museum Ticket: New Pope Leo XIV Exhibit
Description
Visit the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, the oldest building in the Mississippi River Valley, where New Orleans’ rich past comes to life. Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, this iconic landmark reveals the enduring influence of the Catholic Church through captivating permanent and temporary exhibits. Delve into our newest exhibit featuring Pope Leo XIV. The fascinating legacy of Pope Leo XIV, whose ancestral ties to New Orleans run deep—traced through his maternal lineage, connecting him to the city’s vibrant history. Discover the remarkable contributions of the Ursuline nuns, pioneers in education and community service who helped shape the region. From its days as a meeting place for the Louisiana Legislature to its role as the residence of the Archbishops of New Orleans, this historic site has witnessed centuries of change. Explore the stories that unfolded within these walls—from 1752 to the present day—and immerse yourself in the culture that defines the Crescent City.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The museum inside the convent showcases artifacts and exhibits related to: Colonial-era relics, including religious statues, historic documents, and medical instruments used by the nuns. Ursuline nuns, who arrived in 1727 and played a crucial role in educating young girls, caring for the sick, and shaping early New Orleans. Architecture: The convent, built between 1745 and 1752, is the oldest surviving building in the Mississippi River Valley and a stunning example of French Colonial architecture. St. Mary's Church, added later (1845), features beautiful stained glass and a serene atmosphere. Peaceful Gardens & Courtyard: The lush courtyard offers a quiet escape from the bustle of the French Quarter, with fragrant flowers, shaded walkways, and historic statues.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(8)
The history and storytelling of Kirk our guide was captivating and interesting. With this being the oldest building in New Orleans we couldn’t help but get tickets to explore and see the beauty of the architecture and craftsmanship from day of old. As we were leaving Kirk told us the story of the tragedy of the old clock that the nuns brought over from France that they donated to the Nuns in Galveston TX that was part of the devastating Hurricane of 1900. Right as Kirk finished his story about the clock the door slammed shut!
Although there are guides for tours,the times are not publicized nor provided in advance so you don't know for sure until you get there.Open 10-2. We caught up with a docent with a small group tour when we arrived just before noon and he was excellent. Had we not joined him, we would not have appreciated the buildings and grounds as he shared the history and his personal experience and knowledge about the chapel, statues, & Pope Leo. There was no other structured tour in the afternoon, just self-guided. So glad we joined them!
This was a very educational and fantastic tour for anyone, but for Catholics and/or historians especially. The tour guide was Mr. Martin and he was born and raised in New Orleans and had so much knowledge about the buildings and their history. I would recommend this tour as a top 3 in New Orleans and I would take the tour again.
Loved the tour, very informative, learn a lot…. The tour guide was so passionate about her job, definitely a highlight !!
This building is absolutely stunning! The museum was well worth the time and experience. Rich history and our tour guide, Guy was great! Wealth of information.
Anyone exploring the French Quarter with a passion for faith and history must experience The Old Ursuline Convent Museum. This complex destination has eluded me on my prior visits to the quarter but I will return to explore it again. The entry fee is less than a cup of cafe Du Monde coffee. Do not miss.
Lovely museum full of Catholic and local history. Very accessible and beautiful grounds. Highly edifying.
Amazing building! Had an incredible time! A must visit in New Orleans! I had no idea this even existed and the history behind it is fascinating! Now I also know where I might try to have my Weeding :-)
