Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist
In Mexico known as: Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista
Museum Overview
Location & Contact
Address
Morelos 10
Col. Culhuacán
Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México 09800
Museum Information
Founded
1984
Affiliation
Secretaría de Cultura/INAH
Introduction
Discover the Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, housed in the historic Ex-Convento de San Juan Evangelista, where centuries of local art, culture, and community programs come alive. Wander colorful courtyards, admire murals, and enjoy hands-on exhibits that connect history to today.
Museum Exhibitions
Permanent Collections
Permanent exhibits began in 1995 with the first four rooms showing Culhuacán’s history from the pre-Hispanic period to the viceroyalty: I. Señorío de Culhuacán y el medio lacustre — Contains ceramic objects such as vasijas, malacates and platos, heritage of the Toltec culture. It is divided into topics: origins and foundation; geographical location; flora and fauna lacustres, and chinampa agriculture. II. Hacia el dominio mexica — Addresses Culhuacán as ceremonial center, illustrated with objects such as pulqueras cups, an effigy of the god of death, figurines, seals, a sacrificial knife and a basalt sculpture, unique of its kind, of the goddess Chicomecóatl (seven serpents). It is divided into topics: aspects of daily life; traditional trades, cantería, agriculture, cestería, caza, pesca y tejido textil, explained by objects such as pulidores y talladores de piedra, metates and puntas de proyectil de obsidiana. III. Permanencia de Culhuacán como centro religioso — Objects of ceramic religious use, such as a ceremonial brazier, a Tláloc mask, pulqueras cups, sahumadores, and other ornamental items such as orejeras, silbatos y cascabeles. It is divided into topics: the importance of religious influence and the celebration of the Fuego Nuevo on the summit of La Estrella o Huizachtépetl. IV. Periodo virreinal — Located in the former private chapel of the friars. The objects on display were rescued from the original temple, such as the base of the pulpit and four columns of a carved and polychromed wooden altarpiece from the 16th and 17th centuries. In 2003 two more rooms were arranged in two cells of the cloister alto (north corridor): Celda agustina — Recreation of the friars' private quarters. Exposición fotográfica — Includes photographs of the restoration stages of the building, from its abandonment at the end of the 18th century to the present. Museo de Sitio. Exposición permanente de la época prehispánica a la colonial.
Highlights
- Historic ex-convento setting
- Vibrant murals and local art
- Community programs and workshops
- Interactive exhibits for all ages
- Accessible in the Iztapalapa area
At a Glance
Visit Duration
45-75 minutes
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon
Accessibility
Ramps and accessible entrances; elevators available
Photography
Photography permitted with respect for exhibits
WiFi
WiFi availability varies; ask staff on arrival
Facilities
Restrooms available on-site
Hours
Tue–Fri 9 AM–5 PM; Mon Closed; Sat Closed; Sun Closed (Video recording subject to fees)
Cost Information
Free admission
Tickets
Ticket information varies; check official site.
Getting There
Reach the museum by rideshare, local buses, or driving with nearby parking options; public transit is convenient for many visitors.
Nearby Places
Mercado Culhuacán
Sample local snacks after your visit.
Parque Culhuacán
Nice spot for a stroll before or after the museum.
Café Cultura Culhuacán
Great for a post-visit coffee.
Visitor Policies
Photography
Photography is generally allowed with restrictions in sensitive areas.
Bags & Storage
Bag checks may apply; large bags may be restricted.
Strollers & Children
Strollers are usually welcome; check for designated areas if spaces are full.
Lockers
Lockers may be available for items; availability varies by day.
Tips for Your Visit
To beat crowds, visit on weekday mornings, purchase tickets online if available, and allow about 60 to 75 minutes for a focused visit. If you’re visiting during peak times, plan a shorter, targeted route through the highlights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical visiting hours at Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista?
Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist hours vary; refer to the official site for the current schedule
Is it worth visiting for families at Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist?
At Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista Ciudad de México, yes, there are family-friendly exhibits and workshops that engage children
How long should I plan for a visit to Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista Ciudad de México?
Most visitors to Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista, Ciudad de México spend 45-75 minutes exploring the highlights
Is photography allowed at Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista, Ciudad de México?
Photography at Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist Ciudad de México is allowed with restrictions in certain areas; flash is usually prohibited
Are guided tours available at Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist Ciudad de México?
At Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist, Ciudad de México, guided tours may be offered periodically; check on-site or via official channels
Is Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist, Ciudad de México accessible for visitors with disabilities?
At Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist Mexico City, yes, there are accessible entrances and facilities; staff can assist as needed
Where can I park when visiting Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist Mexico City?
At Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist, Mexico City, parking information varies; public transit is often convenient
Can I bring bags or strollers inside at Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist, Mexico City?
At Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista, bag policies vary; smaller bags are typically allowed
Are there kid-friendly activities at Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista?
At Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist, yes, there are workshops and hands-on activities for families
What should I pair with this visit at Culhuacán Community Center, Former Convent of Saint John the Evangelist?
At Centro Comunitario Culhuacán, Ex Convento de San Juan Evangelista Ciudad de México, pair your visit with a stroll through nearby parks or a local café
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