Starting in 1610, it was under the care of Conceptionist nuns and was then named the Temple of the Incarnation. 

Since 1930, it has been known as El Carmen, although in the 16th century, it was called San Sebastián. 

The original building had a single-nave design with a cross-section and had a Chapel of Carmen, which later gave it its name.

In 1993, a large fire destroyed the entire interior of the church, including its altarpieces, sculptures, paintings, and other valuable bronze, gold, and silver pieces. Thus, the only remnants of the former convent complex are the double-arched temple entrance, the tower, and the Carmen Square.

As part of the Convent of the Incarnation, a large arch was built, which used to be the city's main entrance. It is a unique construction in the country, with a square floor plan and plaster applications. The octagonal wooden vault with an eight-pointed star indicates a clear Chiapanecan Mudéjar style.

In 1677, a bell tower was constructed above the grand arch at the request of José Antonio de Torres, the convent's administrator. 

Currently, the arch has become a symbol of the city, and the former temple houses the Cultural Center of El Carmen.