On February 4, 1950, thanks to the efforts of the rector Antonio Torres Gómez, construction works began on the University Auditorium, which houses the Cervantino's film program. The majestic staircase was also projected, which, along with the façade, became a symbol of the university's identity and an icon of the city of Guanajuato. Both works were conceived and executed by the architect Vicente Urquiaga Rojas.

Two years later, on February 16, 1952, the building's Grand Stairs were inaugurated and the auditorium opened its doors for the first time with a ceremony that marked the beginning of that year's course. The building was finished in 1955.