The construction of the temple, now a basilica, was begun in 1682 by the chaplain Don Fernando Méndez with the authorization of Viceroy Don Tomás Aquino Manrique de la Cerda. It was completed in 1689 and consecrated in 1697 by Bishop Isidro Sariñana y Cuenca, the year in which the convent was completed. It is a sumptuous temple with a rich quarry front in the shape of a screen, richly carved in various quarries. The interior of the temple houses an image of the Virgin of Solitude, who is recognized as the Spiritual Patroness of the people of Oaxaca and who is worshipped and devoted in a manner similar to that of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
At the back of the basilica you can access the historical and religious museum, where, as you enter, you will find sheet metal sculptures of the history of the muleteer and mule who brought the Virgin of Solitude and a small hall with religious objects from that time.
At one side of the basilica is a former convent that currently functions as the municipal palace of Oaxaca de Juarez.
It also has an esplanade outside the atrium of the basilica (Socrates garden), where you can eat delicious traditional snow and regional sweets.