Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán

The Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is a baroque structure with a massive stone facade divided into three vertical sections, flanked by twin bell towers and covered in detailed religious carvings. The interior ceiling spans with gilded decorations arranged in intricate patterns that tell religious stories.

Construction started in 1551 when the town council gave land to the Dominican Order, with the project spanning more than a century. The extended timeline reflects the scale and complexity of the undertaking.

The stone facade blends religious imagery with local decorative traditions, showing how indigenous and Spanish craftwork merged here. Visitors can observe this artistic fusion directly on the outer walls.

The building is open during daylight hours, and arriving early helps you explore the interior without crowds and take in all the details. The adjacent Cultural Center offers additional information and context for your visit.

Hidden behind the main building is an ethnobotanical garden filled with native Oaxacan plants on the former monastery grounds. This quiet green space was established after 1994 and offers a surprising contrast to the stone church.

Location: Oaxaca de Juárez

Inception: 1731

Architectural style: baroque architecture

Website: https://youtu.be/dQUR9tH7hmM

GPS coordinates: 17.06556,-96.72306

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:27