Convent Carmen has been closed since 2020, when the Valencia City Council ordered its closure after detecting irregularities in its opening permit. Now, after years of administrative procedures and an internal reorganization of the owning company, the space located at Plaza Portal Nuevo No. 6 is preparing for a new lease on life.
A project in three phases
The new Convent Carmen will be structured around three main components. The first is the hotel, named Calma Wellbeing, which will be located in the convent of San José and Santa Teresa—a site within a Protected Historic District—and will feature approximately 40 rooms spread across three floors.
Construction on this first phase—which includes structural reinforcement of the building and the construction of guest rooms, a reception area, and storage spaces—has already begun, and the perimeter fencing has been authorized until October 25.
The second component consists of a restaurant and a bar, both open to the general public and not just to hotel guests. According to what the developers have told Levante-EMV, the dining experience will be “meticulously curated,” although the details of the bar have yet to be finalized.
The third component is the complex’s former church, which, after a lengthy municipal approval process, has obtained a license to operate as a performing arts and entertainment venue. This space, which previously hosted movies, concerts, and workshops, will undergo a second phase of more minor restoration work.
No terrace and a courtyard used discreetly
One of the most notable differences from the old Convent Carmen is the use of the courtyard. Whereas it was previously the setting for outdoor events—and a source of complaints from neighbors—the developers have not obtained a license to use that space for dining.
The landscaped courtyard will, as explained to Levante-EMV, serve a “discreet” purpose: it will be open to the public but will not host noisy activities or hospitality facilities.
Gramami SL is undertaking the investment and renovation of the complex, but day-to-day management will be handled by an external operating company that has yet to be appointed.
According to a report by Levante-EMV, the owners are in talks with several groups and are confident they will finalize the agreement before the end of this year.
