El Hospitalito, Colonial medical building in central Puebla, Mexico
El Hospitalito is a colonial stone building with a Baroque facade displaying the coat of arms of Pope Innocent XIII and statues of Saints Peter and Paul. The structure features an interior chapel and multiple rooms that served different purposes across various periods.
The building was founded between 1534 and 1537 as Hospital de San Juan de Letran with support from Viceroy Antonio de Mendoza and Emperor Charles V. In the early 18th century, the interior temple underwent major reconstruction following earthquake damage.
The name "Hospitalito" reflects how local people affectionately referred to this small medical facility that served the community. Visitors can observe the spaces that once functioned for patient care and were later adapted for education.
The building sits at the intersection of 9 Oriente Avenue and 2 Sur Street in Puebla's historic center with public transportation options nearby. Visitors can navigate the narrow streets of the old town to reach this location easily.
The interior chapel was substantially redesigned following a major earthquake and displays architectural elements from the early 18th century. This rebuild phase is visible in the roofing details and structural modifications that visitors often overlook while exploring.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
