Places to visit in Oaxaca
Architecture

The San Agustin Church and Convent

The San Agustin Church and Convent
Architecture

The San Agustin Church and Convent

Armenta y López esq. Guerrero, Centro, Oaxaca, Oax.. 68000.

Free

Monday through Sunday 08:00 am - 05:00 pm

Information

Shortly after settling in Oaxaca, the Augustinians began building the Templo de San Agustin around 1580, which was consecrated in 1586.

The monastery apparently was completed in 1699, according to an inscription written on a medallion on the facade, which also indicates a restoration of the temple, both being blessed in 1722.

This temple is the widest church in the city. Since its construction, it has characteristically  lacked  a dome and bell towers to prevent damage from earthquakes.

It is an outstanding example of the architecture in Oaxaca, combining volume with the elegance of its interior, innovative construction, and the fine elaboration of its facades and altarpieces.

In 1860 the convent vacated the building, and shortly after the Institute of Science and Arts of Oaxaca moved in.

But there was much deterioration, to the degree of having to be virtually rebuilt by Archbishop Gillow for the purpose of founding the Casa de Cuna in 1893, which remains in operation up to today.

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Multimedia

Photo Gallery

Representation of Saint Augustine carved in the facade
Representation of Saint Augustine carved in the facade
Façade of the church seen from the Armenta y López street
Façade of the church seen from the Armenta y López street
Church and convent were built between 1580 and 1699
Church and convent were built between 1580 and 1699
One of the two sculptures flanking the main entrance
One of the two sculptures flanking the main entrance
Baroque altarpiece on the main altar
Baroque altarpiece on the main altar
Contacto

Location on map

Armenta y López esq. Guerrero, Centro, Oaxaca, Oax.. 68000.