Former convent of Saint John the Baptist

The former convent of Saint John the Baptist is a religious complex with a rectangular layout, featuring an open chapel with three arches and tall walls topped with crenellations. The defensive architectural style reflects how these mission buildings were designed to protect their inhabitants and assert authority.

The monastery was founded in the 16th century by Augustinian missionaries who played a central role in evangelizing central Mexico. It became a major religious and administrative center for the surrounding region.

The interior walls display murals in blue, yellow, green and red, creating a distinctive artistic style that stands apart from other religious buildings nearby. Visitors can see how local artistic traditions were expressed within the sacred space.

The site now functions as a museum with free admission displaying religious artifacts and rotating exhibitions of works by local artists. Expect uneven floors and minimal signage that encourage independent exploration of the various spaces.

The building preserves a clock from the late 19th century positioned above its distinctive rectangular coral-colored window while maintaining its original architectural character. This later addition demonstrates how the structure adapted and evolved over several centuries.

Location: Tlayacapan

Part of: Monasteries on the slopes of Popocatépetl

GPS coordinates: 18.95560,-98.98110

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:09