As you enter, you are required to check any larger bags and also bottles of water. The first floor is mainly the cloisters with most of the original paintings destroyed when the building was occupied by the military. There is a small temporary exhibit also on the first floor but most of the best things to see are upstairs. The rooms where the treasures from the archeological site of Monte Alban are displayed were amazing. Those areas have lots of signs in both Spanish and English and were very interesting. The remaining parts of the museum were mostly all described in Spanish only and covered the Spanish occupation of this area and then into more modern times.

Housed in a very extensive former convent, I found the building as interesting as the museum. Pausing in the silent courtyard it was easy to imagine monks walking the passageways on their way to chapel! The museum itself is spectacular. I had underestimated the amount of historical artifacts and antiquities that illustrate Oaxaca's past. Chief among these is the treasure that was unearthed at Monte Alban, but there much else to see, as well. Everything is very well maintained and presented.

The church was closed for a wedding, but ok advantage of the museum next door. Incredible architecture and contemporary exhibits. Explored the huge building and the top notch artifacts from Monte Alban area and the Tomb. Beautiful historic works. The building is an old convent and many, many rooms with beautiful views overlooking the botanical gardens below. Highly recommend. Allow a few hours to really explore all areas. And so happy to witness the wedding reception upon exiting the museum, so festive and colorful. Great area with many shops and restaurants as well.