Museum of Colonial Art

🖼️ Where the Christs Tell the Story ✝️

Sometimes, unassuming facades conceal the greatest treasures. This museum is housed in a beautiful 18th-century Baroque mansion that is worth the visit in itself. But before viewing the art, here's a fun fact for book lovers: Luis Arango installed the first printing press in the city by June 23, 1821. The first words of independent Valladolid were printed here! 📜

✝️ The Collection of 100 Christs What truly makes this museum (founded in 1984) unique is its impressive collection of more than 100 crucified Christs. Don't expect to see "the same old thing." This exhibition spans from the 16th to the 19th centuries and is a masterclass in sacred art.

• Materials: Many are made of corn cane paste, that light and ancient technique that our indigenous artisans perfected here in the Pátzcuaro region.

• Impressive details: Look closely at the differences. Some have glass eyes and real hair for realism; others, very Baroque, show ribs and blood to emphasize suffering and move the viewer. Each one tells a different theological story through sculpture.

🎨 Master Brushes In addition to sculptures, the museum houses a valuable collection of viceregal art. Here you can admire easel paintings by great masters from Oaxaca and Puebla, such as Miguel Cabrera, Miguel Herrera and José Padilla. You will also find antique books, period maps, and even oriental pieces from the East India Company, witnesses to the global trade of the Viceroyalty.

🎶 Culture Thursdays If your visit falls on a Thursday, you're in luck! The museum often organizes free cultural events that day, from classical music concerts to lectures with historians who will help you unravel the secrets of the colonial era.

📍 Why visit it from Pátzcuaro? For the pride of technique. Upon seeing the Christs of sugarcane paste, you will be witnessing the direct legacy of the artisans from the lake region (Pátzcuaro and surrounding areas) who succeeded in having their ethereal deities worshipped on altars throughout New Spain. It is seeing our local crafts elevated to the status of museum art. Furthermore, Admission is free, so it's a must-see and easily accessible stop.