The monastery buildings adjoining the Iglesia de Santo Domingo have been lovingly restored and converted into a museum of the cultures of Oaxaca. The architecture of the Monastery is incredibly beautiful and the subtle displays constructed of glass and dark grey steel with well detailed connections reminded me of Carlo Scarpa’s display stands at Museo di Castelvecchio. The displays did not interfere with an appreciation of the architecture that is a restrained combination of brick, hard plaster, stone and timber.
The monastery buildings are arranged around a beautiful stone cloister and two courtyards of different sizes. The cells, which now house exhibitions, are accessed off long naturally lit courtyards which frame impressive views of the surrounding landscape. The earthen materials and relationship to the outside, fresh air and views of the landscape creates a peaceful and calming environment where one feels a strong connection with the earth and heightened awareness of the clear blue sky that is framed by the courtyards.
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