Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
In Mexico known as: Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
Museum Overview
Location & Contact
Address
Calz. Lázaro Cárdenas del Río s/n
Barrio del Cerrillo
San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas 29900
Phone
Website
Museum Information
Permanent Exhibitions
4
Temporary Exhibitions
1
Founded
1984
Affiliation
Secretaría de Cultura/INAH
Introduction
Discover the historic Ex Convento de Santo Domingo and the Highlands culture preserved by the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas, where colonial arches frame engaging regional exhibits and photo-worthy moments.
Museum Exhibitions
Permanent Collections
<b>Recorrido</b><br>Thematic overview of the museum: On the ground floor, three extensive permanent exhibition rooms and each segment thereof present a scientific dialogue that evokes the construction and recovery of the local San Cristóbal memory; the topics are grouped into six major themes. The rooms begin with Maya geography and archaeology of the Highlands of Chiapas, continue with some objects from Chiapas' pre-Hispanic textile tradition, then present the recovery room which covers the moment of the Spanish incursion and the founding of Villa Real, among other topics; the discourse revisits the colonial regime experienced in the region. The third of its rooms revisits a dialogue devoted to evangelization and the establishment of the Dominican order and other orders, and the role of the Virgin Mary during evangelization; it also discusses how the Dominican order gained power in Chiapas. In this dialogue the formation of the Diocese of Chiapas and the figure of Bishop Fray Bartolomé de las Casas and his famous Historia de las Indias are highlighted, as well as the presence of other religious orders in the Province of Chiapas. The dialogue and collection highlight the diocese's silver collection of the Most Excellent Bishop Rodrigo Aguilar Martínez of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapas, and house an important painting collection from the museum’s own holdings and from the Chiapas Regional Museum. The final discourse briefly covers the founding elements of the city, its architecture and urban composition. The curatorial section was, of course, handled by the Coordinación Nacional de Museos y Exposiciones, with the ongoing support of INAH’s General Directorate and the INAH Center. Arriving on the first floor, the tour continues in the lobby and art piece, a permanent room that houses three important textile collections. Notably is the Chiapas Indigenous textiles collection by Francesco Pellizzi, donated to Chiapas by the collector himself; also highlighted are the Contemporary textiles collection, as well as the collection of Guatemalan and other regions’ textiles curated by the Center for the World Textiles of Chiapas, A.C.
Special Exhibitions
This room measures 192 m^2. Additionally, in the room of history and religious art, a segment dedicated to the city’s neighborhoods is often included, with a piece highlighted each month.
Highlights
- Historic ex-convento architecture
- Regional Chiapas art and history
- Accessible galleries and courtyards
- Light-filled photo opportunities
- Seasonal exhibits and programs
At a Glance
Visit Duration
45-75 minutes
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon when crowds are lighter
Accessibility
Facilities accessible; request assistance at the entrance if needed
Photography
Photography allowed in most public areas without flash
WiFi
WiFi availability varies; not guaranteed
Facilities
Restrooms available on-site
Hours
Tue–Sun 9 AM–6 PM; Mon Closed Verify hours
Cost Information
Free admission
Tickets
Prices vary; confirm current rates on the official site. Check pricing
Getting There
Reach the site by taxi or rideshare from central San Cristóbal, with nearby parking options and pedestrian-friendly streets surrounding the museum.
Nearby Places
Catedral de San Cristóbal
Admire the facade and historic plaza views.
Mercado de San Cristóbal
Sample local crafts and snacks after your visit.
Museo del Ámbar de Chiapas
Explore Chiapas amber exhibits nearby.
Café Tabi
Sip local coffee before or after touring.
Visitor Policies
Photography
Photography is generally allowed in public spaces without flash; respect restricted zones and signage.
Bags & Storage
Bags may be subject to checks at entry; please follow staff instructions.
Strollers & Children
Strollers are allowed in most areas; some passages may be narrow.
Lockers
Lockers may be available for rent; confirm on-site.
Tips for Your Visit
Weekends and holidays can be busier; visit early or later in the day to enjoy quieter galleries and easier access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours for Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán?
At Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, tue–sun 9 am–6 pm; mon closed.
Is photography allowed at Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán?
Photography at Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Chiapas is allowed in most public spaces without flash; please avoid restricted areas
Are there guided tours at Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Chiapas?
At Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Chiapas, guided tours may be offered; inquire on-site or via the official site for schedules
What is the best time to visit at Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Chiapas?
At Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Chiapas, early morning or late afternoon often has lighter crowds
Is Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Chiapas accessible for visitors with disabilities?
At Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Chiapas, yes, accessibility features are available; ask staff for assistance if needed
Are there family-friendly exhibits at Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Chiapas?
At Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, the exhibits focus on regional history and culture that can engage families; look for family programs
Can I bring a bag or backpack at Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán?
At Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, bag policies vary; follow entrance instructions and signage
Where can I park when visiting Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán?
At Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Chiapas, parking exists nearby; verify current arrangements on-site
Are restrooms available inside at Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Chiapas?
At Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Chiapas, restrooms are located within the museum premises
Do they offer audio guides at Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Chiapas?
At Museum of the Highlands of Chiapas, Ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzmán Chiapas, audio guide options may be available; ask at the information desk
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Prices and availability are subject to change. Last updated: 10/9/2025
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