[2][3] The construction of one of the largest 17th-century Polish churches[4] began with the arrival in the city of the Franciscan friars in 1637; it was founded by Jan "Sobiepan" Zamoyski[5] and erected in Baroque style on the site of the former Bourse, an association of merchants.

[6] The structure, taller and larger than the other churches in the city (even Zamość Cathedral),[3] consisted of three aisles, a semicircular chancel and two side chapels.

[2] The present site of Liberty Square was occupied by a Franciscan monastery, and in the north-western corner the bell tower was erected.

[1][5] During the period of modernization in the Zamość Fortress under Russian rule, the church building was turned into a military store.

[1][5] After World War II the Fine Arts High School occupied the western part of the building.