There are many convents belonging to different orders, such as Jesuits, Franciscans, and Dominicans, throughout the state of Hidalgo. Some date back more than 500 years. But here we will mention only three where you can plan your excursion.
Tourists are allowed to enter and admire the imposing architecture and the great effort and artistic skill of our Otomí indigenous people who built them.
Actopan
San Nicolás Tolentino
42min
Culture/Religion/Architecture
Join us on a journey through the history and art of New Spain as you explore this 16th-century historical and artistic monument. With its majestic Augustinian architecture, this convent stands as a witness to evangelization and a beacon of culture in Mexico. Be impressed by the local materials used in its construction: stone, sand, and wood from the Actopan Valley. Contemplate its Renaissance façade, adorned with elaborate details that will transport you to an era of splendor and devotion. Discover its sacred spaces and marvel at the murals and religious paintings that tell stories from Genesis, the Last Judgment, and the evangelization of the Otomí peoples. Come and be seduced by the magic of the Ex Convento de San Nicolás de Tolentino, a must-see destination for all lovers of history, art, and culture.
Epazoyucan
San Andrés Apóstol
31min
Culture/Religion/Architecture
Discover the hidden gem of Epazoyucan, Hidalgo: the Exconvento de San Andrés Apóstol, a historical treasure waiting to be explored by travelers eager for culture and beauty. Surrounded by the vibrant life of the town and the freshness of the Sunday market, the former convent stands majestically as a testament to the past and a beacon of the present. Built in 1540 by the skilled friars of the Order of Saint Augustine, the Exconvento de San Andrés Apóstol is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. From its atrium to its chapels, each stone tells a story of faith and devotion that has endured through the centuries. Marvel at the beauty of its ceiling, a 16th-century coffered ceiling adorned with cherubs and floral motifs. The polychrome murals that adorn its walls will transport you to a world of religion and art, where scenes from the Last Supper and the Passion come to life before your eyes.
Zempoala
Ex Convento de Todos los Santos
33min
Culture/Religion/Architecture
The Ex Convento de Todos los Santos, located in Zempoala, Hidalgo, is a prime example of 16th-century colonial architecture. Founded in 1565 by the Franciscan order, this convent is one of the oldest in the region. Its church, with a remarkable Baroque altarpiece, is a centerpiece of its design. The convent has an impressive cloister, surrounded by arches and columns that reflect the style of the period. The frescoes and murals that adorn the convent offer a glimpse into the art and spirituality of the colonial period. Today, the convent is used for cultural events and exhibitions that celebrate local heritage. It is advisable to check opening hours and admission fees, which are usually nominal or free in some cases. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this historical gem and immerse yourself in Mexico's rich culture.
