Temple of Saint Peter the Apostle

The Temple of Saint Peter the Apostle, located in the town of Tzurumútaro, near Pátzcuaro, is an architectural and cultural testimony that fuses the pre-Hispanic past, colonial evangelization and the agrarian identity of Mexico.

Historical context and foundation

The temple, located in Tzurumútaro, which means “grass with which ropes are made” in Purépecha, had a pre-Hispanic origin and maintained its relevance during the Spanish colonization. The initial construction of the temple dates back to the 16th century, as part of the Franciscan evangelization in the region. However, the current structure reflects later modifications, including a reconstruction in the 18th century under Dominican influence. The construction had the collaboration of indigenous leaders such as the chief Don Francisco de Tláhuac, who facilitated the construction of temples in the area under the direction of friars such as Martín de Valencia.

Architecture and artistic features

Styles and materials: The main façade of the temple combines elements of New Spanish Baroque and Churrigueresque details, such as the altarpiece on the south side. Originally, local materials such as wood, adobe and volcanic stone were used, with plasterwork decorated with white geometric motifs.

Colonial reforms:In the 18th century, elements such as the bell tower were added and the structure was reinforced with masonry walls. The cloister preserves vestiges of Franciscan paintings, while the perimeter wall displays Dominican symbols. Inside, its three original naves and coffered ceilings stand out, although much of the interior decoration was modified in later periods.

Transformation in the 20th century: The Agrarian Museum

In the 1970s, the Rectory attached to the temple was transformed into the Agrarian Museum, dedicated to preserving the memory of the agrarian struggle in Michoacán. Documents, agricultural tools, murals and objects related to leaders such as Emiliano Zapata and Lázaro Cárdenas are exhibited here. Before becoming a museum, the space served as a meeting center for peasants during the 1930s, where issues related to agrarian reform were discussed.

Historical events and restoration

During the 20th century, the temple faced challenges such as the growth of informal commerce in its atrium and structural damage. Between 2017 and 2025, the municipal government of Pátzcuaro signed agreements with the community to manage federal and local resources for its restoration.

Cultural legacy and festivities

The temple is the central hub of celebrations such as Holy Week and the Night of the Dead, where food markets are set up with traditional dishes such as churipo and corundas. For three days a year, “toritos de petate” parade through its streets, accompanied by chirimía music and characters such as “el apache” and “el caballito”.

The Temple of San Pedro Apóstol is not only a religious monument, but a symbol of Purépecha cultural resistance and post-revolutionary social transformation. Its hybrid architecture and role as a museum reflect the fusion of identities that define Michoacán. Today, it remains a meeting point to honor both faith and Mexico’s agrarian history.