Ex-monastery of Santiago Apóstol

The Ex-monastery of Santiago Apóstol is a Dominican compound in Cuilapan de Guerrero built with green stone and Gothic architectural details. The complex includes extensive corridors and a large basilica with distinctive stone construction.

Construction began in the 1550s under Dominican leadership as part of the religious conversion efforts in the region. Work stopped around 1650 due to lack of funds and available labor, leaving parts of the original design incomplete.

The walls here display frescoes that blend Catholic religious figures with indigenous artistic styles, showing how two worlds came together through art and faith in this place.

The site welcomes visitors every day and is easily reached by bus from Oaxaca City nearby. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you will explore stone hallways and courtyards throughout the grounds.

The unfinished basilica creates natural echoes as footsteps and voices resonate through the stone hallways and open courtyards. This acoustic quality may have been intentional, designed to enhance the sound of liturgical chants and processions.

Location: Cuilapan de Guerrero

Inception: 15 century

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

GPS coordinates: 16.99228,-96.77907

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:25