The construction of this monumental monastery began in 1596 and continued for three centuries, when they were adding different details such as domes.
In the late seventies it was restored and equipped to give the Michoacan people a place where artistic workshops were offered, various kinds of exhibitions and cultural events. It also has a theater, several exhibition halls, the Museum of the Mask, cafeteria and is one of the sites with more legends of the city. The annexed church is Nuestra Señora del Carmen, its facade is Herreriano style with touches of what would be the Baroque. This place is one of the largest and most beautiful of Morelia.