Built in 1742 as a Dominican convent, the House of the Eleven Patios retains five of its original courtyards, a baroque portal, a fountain and a rare colonial bathing room. It now houses workshops and shops where Michoacán artisans work in lacquer, copper, textiles and carved wood.
Built in 1742 as a Dominican convent, the Casa de los Once Patios retains five of its original courtyards, a baroque portal, a fountain and a rare colonial bathing room. The complex now houses workshops and shops where Michoacán artisans work in lacquer, copper, textiles and carved wood, giving visitors a rare opportunity to watch craftspeople at their trade rather than simply browse finished goods. Browsing the courtyards and workshops takes 1 to 1.5 hours, best done slowly in the early to mid-afternoon when most stalls are open and staffed. The surviving courtyards, linked by colonial-era passageways, are themselves worth attention alongside the crafts on sale, from the baroque stone portal to the fountain at the centre of the complex. It sits a five-minute walk southeast of the Plaza Vasco de Quiroga, making it an easy addition to a day exploring Pátzcuaro's historic centre.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily, typically 10AM-7PM
- Best time
- afternoon
Location
Calle Francisco de Lerín, Centro, 61606 Pátzcuaro, Michoacán
19.5118, -101.6081 View on map
Highlights
- Five surviving courtyards from the original eleven of the 1742 convent
- Working artisan studios for lacquer, copper, textiles and carved wood
- Baroque stone portal and a rare colonial-era bathing room
- Direct opportunity to watch Michoacán craftspeople at work
- A short walk from the Plaza Vasco de Quiroga
Tips for visiting
- Browse in the early afternoon when most workshops are open and staffed
- Bring cash, as smaller artisan stalls may not accept cards
- Ask artisans about their technique; many are happy to explain lacquer or copper processes
- Compare prices across a few stalls before buying, since quality and pricing both vary
- Visit slowly; the courtyards reward unhurried wandering rather than a quick pass-through
When to visit
Early to mid-afternoon, when workshops are fully open and staffed, is the best time to visit.
Accessibility
The courtyards are linked by mostly level colonial flooring, though some interior thresholds and uneven stone paving exist.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
Browsing the courtyards and workshops takes 1 to 1.5 hours.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography of the courtyards and craft displays is generally welcomed.
Is it worth visiting with children?
Yes, watching artisans work is engaging for children, though breakable crafts require some supervision.