Templo y Ex Convento de San Francisco
A 16th-century religious complex in Mexico, famed for its intricate Plateresque facade and stunning gilt-embellished interior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Templo y Ex Convento de San Francisco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century religious complex in Mexico, famed for its intricate Plateresque facade and stunning gilt-embellished interior.
"Very interesting to go visit if you like art, culture, hand made articles, old or vintage artifacts."
Explore Upstairs Shops
Don't miss the hidden artisan shops on the upper floors for unique finds! :shopping_bags:
Appreciate the Artistry
Take time to absorb the beautiful architecture and extraordinary art within. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Plateresque Facade
Admire the intricate, silver-like detailing of the 16th-century facade, a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture.
Gilt-Embellished Interior
Step inside to be awed by the opulent interior, featuring a stunning altar and rich, gold-leaf decorations.
Artisan Shops
Discover unique local crafts, art, and vintage artifacts from talented artisans, especially on the upper levels.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
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Embrace the Local Crafts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Explore Upstairs Shops
Don't miss the hidden artisan shops on the upper floors for unique finds! :shopping_bags:
Appreciate the Artistry
Take time to absorb the beautiful architecture and extraordinary art within. :art:
Check for Events
Look out for live music and light projections on the temple during evenings. :notes:
Learn Local Culture
It's a great spot to learn about Michoacán's rich culture and arts. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore Upstairs Shops
Don't miss the hidden artisan shops on the upper floors for unique finds! :shopping_bags:
Appreciate the Artistry
Take time to absorb the beautiful architecture and extraordinary art within. :art:
Check for Events
Look out for live music and light projections on the temple during evenings. :notes:
Learn Local Culture
It's a great spot to learn about Michoacán's rich culture and arts. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Templo y Ex Convento de San Francisco for its stunning architecture, both the intricate Plateresque facade and the opulent gilt interior. It's also highly regarded as a place to discover and purchase unique local crafts and art from talented artisans. Some visitors note that while the main church is free to enter, specific areas might have fees.
"Nice beautiful night to walk around"
Nenad Nekic
"Great place to buy local crafts, make sure you also go upstairs to see the somewhat hidden shops in the first floor."
rlvides1
"Very interesting to go visit if you like art, culture, hand made articles, old or vintage artifacts, if you need information for a school project, or you find yourself exploring in Morelia, very beautiful artchitecture, beautiful views, extaordinary art."
alejo alonso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Templo y Ex Convento de San Francisco is located in the heart of Morelia's historic center. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying nearby, or you can take a taxi or local bus to the city center. Many visitors find it a central point for exploring the city.
Parking in the historic center of Morelia can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport, taxis, or to park in a designated public parking lot a few blocks away and walk.
Yes, the Templo y Ex Convento de San Francisco is centrally located, making it a convenient walk from many other key attractions in Morelia's historic center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the main church area. However, some specific exhibits or areas within the ex-convent might have a small admission fee. It's always good to check on-site for any current charges.
The church typically opens in the morning and closes in the early evening. The artisan shops may have slightly different hours. It's advisable to check locally or look for specific hours for the church and the shops.
Absolutely! The ex-convent houses numerous shops selling local crafts, art, and vintage items. Many visitors highlight this as a great place to buy unique souvenirs.
While official guided tours might not always be advertised, local guides are often available in the historic center. You can also explore at your own pace and learn from the information provided within the complex.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted in the main church area, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Some areas or exhibits might have restrictions.
For stunning photos, aim for early mornings or late afternoons when the light is softer and crowds are thinner. The facade looks particularly beautiful during the golden hour.
Yes, the entire complex offers numerous photo opportunities, from the intricate facade and interior to the courtyard and the surrounding plaza. The evening light projections can also be spectacular.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The Templo y Ex Convento de San Francisco complex dates back to the 16th century, with construction beginning in the 1500s. It's one of the earliest Franciscan establishments in the region.
The church features a beautiful Plateresque facade, characteristic of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The interior boasts a gilt-embellished design, with a neoclassical altar from the 18th century. 
The Ex Convento served as a vital religious and social center since the 16th century. It played a crucial role in the evangelization and development of the region.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels
+1Originally established in the 16th century, the complex has undergone various modifications and reconstructions over the centuries, reflecting different artistic and historical periods. The ex-convent, with its arcades and courtyards, provides a glimpse into the monastic life of the past. Its construction began in 1592 and concluded in 1615, making it one of the earliest Franciscan foundations in the area.
+1Visitors often remark on the extraordinary art and beautiful architecture, noting how the site offers a rich educational experience for those interested in art and history. The blend of exterior restraint with interior grandeur is a recurring theme in visitor feedback.
A Hub for Local Artisans
Many travelers recommend exploring the shops, particularly those on the upper floors, as they can be somewhat hidden but often contain the most unique treasures. This provides an excellent opportunity to support local artists and take home a piece of Michoacán's rich cultural heritage.
The atmosphere around the temple can be lively, especially during evenings when there might be live music and light projections on the facade, adding to the cultural experience.
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