In the 1630s, Quarai was the seat of the Inquisition because it was where the churchman appointed to lead the Holy Office resided. Hearings in courtyards like this investigated Spanish settlers accused of wrong doctrine or behavior, with charges often involving superstitions, unfaithfulness, love potions, witchcraft, or blasphemy. Indigenous people were not subject to scrutiny by the Inquisition, but they were often called to testify. The accused, including Captain Aguilar and Governor López de Mendizábal, were bound and sent to Mexico City for trial.