In this work Rivas departed from any specific style, explicitly choosing an eclectic architecture drawing from neoclassical, baroque, Russian and even gothic and Islamic influences.

The walls contain several paintings framed by medallion structures made by Candelario Rivas[4] that show miracles attributed to Saint Anthony of Padua.

A balcony above the common area contains a pipe organ and a small number of seats, usually reserved for important guests.

The city's population took a special interest in the construction of the temple because its architect, Refugio Reyes Rivas, had no formal architectural training.

During construction, Reyes Rivas was often criticized by Camilo E. Pani, an engineer who believed the dome would collapse as soon as the supporting beams were removed.