Ex-Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero
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Ex-Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero

4.6
·5k reviews·Cuilápam de Guerrero, Mexico

A colossal, unfinished 16th-century convent in Oaxaca, blending Gothic and Neoclassical styles, steeped in history and legend.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Ex-Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero

Ex-Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A colossal, unfinished 16th-century convent in Oaxaca, blending Gothic and Neoclassical styles, steeped in history and legend.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"Magnificent! This place is hauntingly beautiful. It’s such a calm and quiet place and ideal for reflection."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photographer's Paradise

The architecture and light create stunning photo ops. Visit during different times of day for varied shots.

🚶‍♀️ Easy Day Trip

Just 35 minutes from Oaxaca City, it's perfect for a half-day excursion.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Unfinished Grandeur

The Unfinished Grandeur

Main Structure

Marvel at the colossal, unfinished architecture, a blend of Gothic and Neoclassical styles, leaving visitors in awe of its scale and ambition.

Vicente Guerrero's Last Stand

Vicente Guerrero's Last Stand

Execution Site

Stand where Mexican independence hero Vicente Guerrero was executed, a poignant spot steeped in national history.

Architectural Details

Architectural Details

Interior and Exterior

Explore the intricate details of the arches, columns, and remnants of rooms, offering a glimpse into 16th-century monastic life.

Archaeological Echoes

Archaeological Echoes

Adjacent Areas

Discover archaeological pieces and remnants of past life, including pottery and carvings, adding layers to the site's rich history.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during daylight hours for the best experience. While some find nighttime visits intriguing for their spooky legends, the historical and architectural details are best appreciated under the sun. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene exploration of this significant historical site.

Getting There & Around

Easily accessible from Oaxaca City, the Ex-Convento is a popular day trip. Public transportation is a viable and budget-friendly option, making it convenient for solo travelers and those looking to immerse themselves in local travel experiences. Renting a car or joining a guided tour also offers flexibility.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon light
Why
Ideal for photography
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cuentan los que saben que en Cuilapam de Guerrero hay un templo que construyó el diablo. #Cuilapam #cuilapamdeguerrero #cuentanlosquesaben #Oaxaca #Viajeroleyendero #mitosyleyendas #guiadelviajeroleyendero #paranormaltiktok #parati #foryou #elbauldelasleyendas #leyendasdemexico #leyendasdeoaxaca #temploinconcluso
@elbauldelasleyendas
64.2K likes • 1.3M views

📸 Photographer's Paradise

The architecture and light create stunning photo ops. Visit during different times of day for varied shots. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Easy Day Trip

Just 35 minutes from Oaxaca City, it's perfect for a half-day excursion. TikTokReddit

Respuesta a @Mary Brendis Fdz esta curioso ✨🌙 #rosvin #rosvinmora #oaxaca #oaxacamexico #mexico #cuilapamdeguerrero #hernancortes #oaxacalotienetodo #visitaoaxaca #oaxacalotienetodo #mexico🇲🇽 #historia #mexicomagico #ticoenmexico #extranjerosenmexico #culturaoaxaqueña #pueblosoaxaqueños #pueblosmexicanos #pueblosmagicos
@rosvinmora
12.9K likes • 135.8K views
Ex Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero. ¡Visítalo! #Oaxaca #México #VallesCentrales
oaxaca_cultural
143 likes • 3.8K views

💰 Affordable Entry

Admission is reasonably priced, offering great value for a historically rich site. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the expansive grounds. Reddit

El Ex Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero, en Oaxaca, es un lugar que cautiva desde el primer vistazo. Sus majestuosos arcos y su construcción inacabada guardan siglos de historia, convirtiéndolo en uno de los sitios más fascinantes para quienes disfrutan de la arquitectura colonial y los tesoros culturales de México. 🇲🇽✨ Rodeado de paisajes únicos, este recinto invita a recorrer sus espacios abiert...
lazlotrura
1 likes • 67 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photographer's Paradise

The architecture and light create stunning photo ops. Visit during different times of day for varied shots. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Easy Day Trip

Just 35 minutes from Oaxaca City, it's perfect for a half-day excursion. TikTokReddit

💰 Affordable Entry

Admission is reasonably priced, offering great value for a historically rich site. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the expansive grounds. Reddit

👻 Embrace the Legends

Many believe the site has paranormal activity; nighttime visits are popular for ghost stories. TikTok+2

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the Ex-Convento's haunting beauty and well-preserved architecture, finding it a photographer's dream and an ideal spot for reflection. The historical significance, particularly its connection to Vicente Guerrero, adds a profound layer to the experience, making it a highly recommended day trip from Oaxaca City.

"The monastery is mesmerizing you immerse in the times when people lived here the architecture is also whale preserved the photograph you can take here are mind-blowing will come again soon if I can"

David Edmundo Ignacio Garcia

"Magnificent! This place is hauntingly beautiful. It’s such a calm and quiet place and ideal for reflection. A photographers dream in almost any light. It’s like $75 pesos per person and well worth it to see the interior. Bathrooms upstairs."

LS Sheldon

"It is amazing, just the architecture is beautiful and the fact that in that ex convento they shoot the second Mexican president and a few archaeological pieces do more interesting and rich the visit, it is very easy to arrive and come back in public transportation from Oaxaca city!"

Ariane Hernandez Garcia

What People Like

Hauntingly beautiful architecture
Photographer's dream
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Some areas are less preserved

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ex-Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero is conveniently located about 35 minutes from Oaxaca City. You can easily reach it via public transportation, such as local buses or colectivos, which are budget-friendly options. Many travelers also opt for taxis or ride-sharing services for a quicker journey. Guided tours from Oaxaca City often include transportation, making it a hassle-free experience. TikTokReddit

Yes, traveling to Cuilapam de Guerrero by public transport from Oaxaca City is straightforward and commonly done by visitors. Local buses and colectivos frequently run this route, offering an authentic and economical way to reach the site. Reddit

Driving to the Ex-Convento is also an option, offering flexibility in your schedule. Parking is generally available near the site. This allows you to combine your visit with other nearby attractions at your own pace. Instagram

Absolutely! Many tour operators in Oaxaca City offer day trips that include the Ex-Convento de Cuilapam, often combined with other significant sites in the region. This is a great way to learn about the history and culture from a knowledgeable guide. Instagram+1

The travel time from Oaxaca City to the Ex-Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero is approximately 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your mode of transportation. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for the Ex-Convento de Cuilapam is generally around 75 Mexican pesos per person, which is considered very reasonable for the historical significance and beauty of the site. Reddit

The Ex-Convento is typically open during daylight hours, allowing visitors to explore its grounds and structures. It's advisable to check the most current opening hours before your visit, especially if planning a late afternoon trip. TikTok

Advance booking for tickets is generally not required for the Ex-Convento de Cuilapam, as it's a historical site rather than a ticketed event. You can usually purchase your entry upon arrival. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in all sources, standard entry fees usually cover photography for personal use. Professional or commercial photography might require special permits or fees. Instagram

Yes, restrooms are available for visitors, typically located upstairs within the complex. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Ex-Convento is most famously known as the site where Vicente Guerrero, a key figure in Mexican independence, was executed. This makes it a place of immense historical importance for Mexico. TikTokReddit

The architecture is a striking blend of Gothic and Neoclassical styles, notable for its colossal scale and the fact that it was never fully completed. Its majestic arches and unfinished structure are captivating. Instagram+1

Yes, the Ex-Convento is surrounded by numerous legends, including tales of it being built by the devil or being a site of paranormal activity, especially during nighttime. TikTokInstagram+3

Inside, you can explore the remnants of rooms, see archaeological pieces like pottery and carvings, and even observe the old kitchen area. The execution site of Vicente Guerrero is also a significant point of interest. Reddit

The architecture is remarkably well-preserved, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere. While some areas show signs of age, the overall structure is impressive. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Ex-Convento is a photographer's dream in almost any light. Early morning or late afternoon offer beautiful golden hour light, while midday can provide dramatic shadows. The open-air nature of parts of the convent also makes it stunning under clear skies. InstagramReddit

The majestic arches, the vast open spaces, and the historical remnants all offer excellent photographic opportunities. Exploring different angles, including from above with a drone, can provide unique perspectives. Instagram

Drones are often used to capture the scale and unique architecture of the Ex-Convento from above, as seen in some social media content. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in historical or protected areas. Instagram

Popular shots include wide-angle views of the unfinished structure, close-ups of architectural details, and capturing the historical atmosphere. The contrast between the ancient stone and the sky is also a common theme. Instagram+1

The dramatic architecture and historical ambiance make it a unique and atmospheric location for portraits, offering a backdrop that is both grand and evocative. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ex-Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero offers a unique educational experience for families. While the historical context might be complex for very young children, the sheer scale of the unfinished architecture can spark imagination. Encourage kids to imagine what life was like centuries ago or what the completed structure might have looked like. The open spaces allow for some freedom to explore, but supervision is essential due to the historical nature of the site. Consider focusing on the visual aspects – the grand arches, the textures of the stone, and the vastness of the sky above. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This site is a photographer's paradise. The unfinished Gothic and Neoclassical architecture provides dramatic lines and textures, perfect for capturing stunning shots. Instagram+1 The open-air nature means you can play with light and shadow throughout the day. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the historical significance, like the execution site of Vicente Guerrero, adding a layer of depth to your portfolio. Reddit Consider visiting during the golden hours for the most magical light, and don't hesitate to experiment with different angles, including drone shots for a unique perspective. Instagram

👻 Legend & Paranormal Seekers

If you're drawn to the mysterious, the Ex-Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero is a must-visit. Local legends whisper of supernatural occurrences and even suggest the devil's involvement in its construction. TikTok+2 While daytime visits offer historical insights, some find the atmosphere particularly potent during twilight or even nighttime, fueling tales of lingering spirits. TikTok+1 Embrace the stories and let your imagination wander through the echoing halls and unfinished chambers. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by Mexican history, the Ex-Convento is a significant pilgrimage site. It's not only a remarkable example of colonial architecture but also the place where Vicente Guerrero, a hero of Mexican independence, was executed. TikTokReddit Explore the remnants of monastic life, discover archaeological pieces, and contemplate the events that unfolded within these ancient walls. The unfinished nature of the convent itself tells a story of ambition, conflict, and the passage of time. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend and History of the Unfinished Convent

The Ex-Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero is a testament to ambitious 16th-century construction, yet it remains famously unfinished. Legends abound, with some suggesting supernatural intervention or disputes between religious orders and figures like Hernán Cortés halted its completion. TikTokInstagram+2 This unfinished state, however, contributes to its haunting beauty and mystique, drawing visitors interested in both history and folklore. The architectural style is a fascinating mix of Gothic and Neoclassical elements, showcasing the era's grand aspirations. Instagram

Beyond its architectural marvel, the convent holds a significant place in Mexican history as the site where Vicente Guerrero, a pivotal leader in Mexico's fight for independence, was executed. Visitors can see the very spot where he met his end, adding a layer of solemn reflection to the visit. TikTokReddit The presence of archaeological artifacts, including pottery and carvings, further enriches the experience, offering tangible connections to the past inhabitants and the site's long history. Reddit

Exploring the Ex-Convento is like stepping back in time. The vast, open spaces and the enduring stone structures evoke a sense of awe and contemplation. Whether you're drawn by the historical events, the architectural grandeur, or the local legends, the Ex-Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero offers a profound and memorable experience. Reddit+1

Photography Opportunities at Ex-Convento de Cuilapam

The Ex-Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero is a dream destination for photographers, offering a unique blend of historical architecture and atmospheric charm. The unfinished nature of the structure, with its majestic arches and vast open spaces, creates dramatic visual compositions. Instagram+1 The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, can transform the site into a breathtaking spectacle. Reddit

Visitors often capture wide-angle shots showcasing the sheer scale of the convent, as well as detailed close-ups of the intricate stonework and remnants of past life. Instagram The historical significance, particularly the site of Vicente Guerrero's execution, adds a poignant element that can be conveyed through thoughtful photography. Reddit Many travelers also find the surrounding landscape and the clear Oaxacan skies to be excellent backdrops, making it a versatile location for various photographic styles, from architectural to portraiture. Instagram+1

For those looking to capture truly unique perspectives, aerial photography with drones has become popular, revealing the convent's layout and its integration with the surrounding environment. Instagram Regardless of your photographic skill level, the Ex-Convento provides endless opportunities to create stunning and memorable images that reflect its historical depth and architectural grandeur.

Local Culture and Traditions

Cuilapam de Guerrero is not just home to the famous Ex-Convento; it's also a community rich in cultural heritage. The town is particularly known for its vibrant Danza de la Pluma (Feather Dance), an ancient tradition that has been preserved for generations and is deeply rooted in Oaxacan culture. Instagram This traditional dance is a significant part of the local identity and a captivating spectacle for visitors interested in experiencing authentic Oaxacan traditions. Instagram

The region's economy is primarily based on agriculture and livestock, reflecting a connection to the land that has sustained its communities for centuries. Instagram Beyond the convent and its historical significance, exploring Cuilapam offers a chance to witness the living culture of Oaxaca, where traditions are not just historical artifacts but are actively practiced and celebrated. Instagram

Visitors can also find local crafts and experience the warmth of Oaxacan hospitality, making a trip to Cuilapam de Guerrero a holistic cultural immersion. The town's connection to its past, from the colonial convent to its enduring traditions, makes it a compelling destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Mexico's rich cultural tapestry. Instagram

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