Santa Teresa la Antigua, Art museum in Historic Center, Mexico City
Santa Teresa la Antigua is an art museum in a former convent building in the Historic Center that combines Baroque and Neoclassical architectural elements throughout. The space hosts rotating exhibitions and contains a documentation center with audiovisual archives.
The convent building was founded in 1616 after Archbishop Juan Pérez made a vow during a storm at sea. The structure was significantly rebuilt in 1684 and later transformed into its current role as a museum.
The space showcases contemporary art forms including installations, performances, and sound work displayed within its historic rooms. These modern expressions create an interesting contrast against the baroque walls and vaulted ceilings.
The museum sits on Licenciado Primo de Verdad Street, northeast of the main plaza in the Historic Center. The location is walkable and works well when visiting other sights in the old city.
The building leans backward due to unstable soil conditions beneath Mexico City that cause settling. This subtle backward tilt is visible to careful observers and gives the place an unusual, intriguing quality.
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