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Abuse allegations at Nogoyá Convent in Argentina

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2026-09-30 20:34 UTC → 2026-10-25 13:52 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Investigations into the Monasterio de las Carmelitas Descalzas in Nogoyá, Argentina, have revealed systemic abuse and unlawful confinement. Former prioress Luisa Ester Toledo was judicially condemned for the crime of ‘unlawful deprivation of ~~liberty.’ Survivors, including Evelyn Garay~~ liberty’ and the application of torture against nuns, including Silvia ~~Graciela Albarenque,~~ Albarenque and Roxana Peña. Survivors have provided testimony regarding the conditions within the convent. Evelyn Garay described a sect-like environment characterized by forced silence, isolation, and the use of self-mortification instruments such as whips and cilices to destroy individual personalities. Garay noted that while physical pain was significant, the psychological damage and the loss of voice and thought were the most enduring wounds. Albarenque testified to being held captive for nearly six years starting in 2007, while other victims described the environment as ‘an hell on Earth.’ Allegations have also been made that Archbishop Juan Alberto Puiggari was aware of the situation. While Toledo has moved to another convent, survivors continue to face significant psychological damage. The case has gained broader cultural attention through the Argentine miniseries ‘Cautiva’ (also known as ‘Confinada’), which is based on these real events. The series portrays spiritual manipulation and institutional abuse within a cloistered convent. In response to the production, priest Leandro Bonnin expressed indignation regarding the failure of clergy to act as signs of love, noting the pain caused when they instead become perpetrators of harm.

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