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Church and convent · Izamal, Yucatán
Convento de San Antonio de Padua
16th-century Franciscan convent built atop a Maya pyramid, with a courtyard of about 8,000 square meters surrounded by 75 arches and the image of Nuestra Señora de Izamal.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Convento de San Antonio de Padua
The convent of San Antonio de Padua occupies the top of a large Maya platform in the center of Izamal. The Franciscans built it between 1553 and 1561 using stones from the Ppap Hol Chac pyramid that stood there, as a way to mark the arrival of Christianity over the former religious center.
The courtyard, one of the largest on the continent, is about 8,000 square meters and is surrounded by a gallery of 75 arches painted yellow and white. Wide ramps rise from the plaza to it. The church houses the image of Nuestra Señora de Izamal, patron saint of Yucatán, brought from Guatemala in the 16th century, and remnants of old mural paintings.
In 1993, Pope John Paul II visited the convent, and a statue commemorates the visit. At night, on some dates, a light-and-sound show tells the history of the place.
The church remains in use, and internal visits depend on mass schedules.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 hour to 1 hour and a half.
Best time
In the morning, before the heat, or late afternoon, when the light makes the yellow more vivid. Check whether there is a night show.
How to get there
It is in the center of Izamal, next to the main square. You can reach it on foot.
Tip
Walk along the arcaded gallery of the courtyard to view the town and the surrounding pyramids.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Convento de San Antonio de Padua
When was the Izamal convent built?
Between 1553 and 1561 by the Franciscans, atop a Maya pyramid.
How large is the convent courtyard in Izamal?
About 8,000 square meters, surrounded by 75 arches.
Who is the patron saint of Yucatán?
Nuestra Señora de Izamal, whose image is housed in the convent.