San Ildefonso Museum

The school goes back to the 16th century when the Jesuits began their educational endeavors. The building as it now appears came to be in the 18th century, when it became one of the most extraordinary examples of baroque style in Mexico City’s body of civil architecture. 

The architectural complex is three stories high; visitors will notice that it is made up of two areas. The one from the baroque period is built of stone with archways supported by pilasters. The front is covered with volcanic rock with limestone frames and cornices, and it contains three courtyards: Chico, Pasantes, and Grande. The second area on the southern side has two small courtyards, the Simón Bolívar amphitheater, and offices. 

The old school is also remembered as the building that held the Escuela Nacional Preparatoria, a school with a liberal spirit and positivist philosophy based on the principles of Auguste Comte. Records reveal that during this time, there was a botanical garden, small zoo, laboratories, observatory, and library. The school was open until 1980. 

After being closed for 13 years, in 1992 it re-opened its doors for the México, Esplendores de 30 Siglos (Mexico, 30 Centuries of Splendor) art exhibition. 

In 1994, the Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso was officially back as a premiere cultural center. Prestigious national and international exhibitions have been able to successfully generate public participation.