In 1575, the first Augustinian order arrived to Zacatecas and built their first temple which was very modest. But, by 1590 walls for a larger church had already been put in place. In 1617, this new church was dedicated, which was more lavish and beautiful, until finally in 1782 it was blessed again. From that magnificent temple, today only a few beautiful vestiges remain. At its beautiful main facade, today stands a high white wall, and where once there were beautiful interior altarpieces that is apparent by the outline of excellent quarry carvings and moldings, there is now only space that remains. Its decline began with the coming of the Reform Laws, and the deterioration continued on a daily basis. However, in 1948 the work of recovering and restoring the church took place which concluded in 1969.
It is enough simply to see the side facade to imagine the splendor of this building. In it, one sees a St. Augustine at its height. Although the building is empty today, it is a magnificent example of architecture that has retained all of its nobility and perfect proportions, as seen in the eight domes and arches, and flying buttresses,. Today, cultural events are held in its facilities.
Next to the Former Convent of Saint Augustine Ex-Convento de San Agustín is the Legislative Building (Palacio Legislativo), which since 1985, has been the seat of the local congress. The main facade is a replica of another building, La Real Caja, built in 1763 and destroyed by an explosion during the Mexican Revolution.
Open from 9:00 to 8:00 - Closed on Mondays