The building was constructed between 1550 and 1626.

It is an eclectic construction as various architectural styles have been incorporated over the years. 

Its tower was not completed until 1667 and was supervised by the Dominican friar Gregorio de Cabello. It is considered one of the oldest in Morelia and the largest with three Baroque-style bodies.

Its facade is in a late Plateresque style but also presents a marked Renaissance influence, while its cloister has a Gothic influence. 

In 1863, the convent was nationalized, and although Emperor Maximilian returned it three years later, with the return of the liberals to power, the temple and the convent were divided. The convent became a tenement building and is currently occupied by a student house of the University Michoacana.

The image of the Virgen del Socorro, a gift from Santo Tomás de Villanueva, is venerated here.