The former 16th-century Templo de San Agustín on the Plaza Chica now serves as Pátzcuaro's public library. Its apse wall carries a vast mural by Juan O'Gorman narrating the history of Michoacán from the Purépecha era through the conquest to the independence struggle.
The former 16th-century Templo de San Agustín on Pátzcuaro's Plaza Chica now serves as the town's public library, and its apse wall carries a vast mural by Juan O'Gorman narrating the history of Michoacán from the Purépecha era through the conquest to the independence struggle. The mural's scale and detail reward a slow look from the entrance, where the full composition can be taken in at once, and viewing it takes about 30 minutes. As the library remains an active reading room, visits are best kept quiet and brief. It sits one block north of the Plaza Grande, an easy stop paired with the plaza itself. The library is closed on Sundays and is quietest, and best lit, on weekday mornings.
Good to know
- Hours
- Typically Monday-Friday, 9AM-6PM; Saturday shorter hours
- Best time
- morning
Location
Calle Títere, Plaza Gertrudis Bocanegra, Centro, 61600 Pátzcuaro, Michoacán
19.5166, -101.6084 View on map
Highlights
- Former 16th-century Templo de San Agustín repurposed as a public library
- Vast apse mural by Juan O'Gorman depicting Michoacán history
- Mural narrative running from the Purépecha era through independence
- Set on the smaller Plaza Chica, one block from the main plaza
- Free public access to view the mural
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the morning when the library is open and quiet
- Step back toward the entrance for the best full view of the apse mural
- Keep voices low, since it functions as an active public library
- Pair the visit with the nearby Plaza Vasco de Quiroga
- Closed on Sundays, so plan visits Monday through Saturday
When to visit
Weekday mornings are quietest, since it functions primarily as a working public library.
Accessibility
The building has a level ground-floor entrance and reading room.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
Viewing the mural takes about 30 minutes.
Is photography allowed?
Photography without flash is generally permitted.
Is it worth visiting with children?
Yes, the large, colourful mural can hold children's interest even without reading the historical detail.