Museum of the City of Mexico (Museo de la Ciudad de Mexico)

The Museum of the City of Mexico (Museo de la Ciudad de México) is housed in the magnificent Palacio de los Condes de Santiago de Calimaya, a 16th-century palace that once belonged to the counts of the same name. Located on Pino Suárez Street in the heart of Centro Histórico, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through the city's history, from its pre-Hispanic origins as Tenochtitlan to the sprawling metropolis it is today. The permanent collection includes archaeological artifacts, colonial-era paintings, furniture, and modern artworks that illustrate the city's social, political, and cultural evolution. One of the highlights is the large-scale model of the Valley of Mexico as it was in the 16th century, surrounded by lakes and volcanoes. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions focusing on contemporary urban issues. The building itself is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with a stunning courtyard, ornate staircases, and rooms that evoke the lifestyle of Mexico's colonial elite. It's a quieter alternative to the larger museums in the city, offering a more intimate and reflective experience.

Don't miss

• View the enormous relief model of the Valley of Mexico from the 16th century, showing Tenochtitlan on an island
• Explore rooms furnished with colonial-era antiques, including a carriage and period furniture
• See archaeological finds from the Templo Mayor and other pre-Hispanic sites
• Admire the Baroque architecture of the courtyard and the stone coat of arms above the entrance
• Check temporary exhibitions on contemporary Mexico City culture and urbanism

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Museum of the City of Mexico (Museo de la Ciudad de Mexico)

Cheapest way inTransfer Mexico city Airport - Mexico city Downtown hotels4.5★ · 34 travelersFree cancellationFrom$18 per personSee dates →Most bookedTeotihuacan Private Tour from Mexico City5★ · 2,067 travelers1–5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$140 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Anthropology Museum Tour - Best Rated4.8★ · 72 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$37 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Photography without flash is allowed in most areas. No tripods without permission.
• Closed on Mondays. Open Tuesday–Sunday, typically 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Confirm hours online.
• Audio guides are available in Spanish and English for a small fee.
• Large bags must be checked at the cloakroom. Only small backpacks are allowed in galleries.

A bit of history

The palace was built in the 16th century for the Counts of Santiago de Calimaya. In 1964, it was converted into the Museum of the City of Mexico, showcasing the capital's history. The building survived the 1985 earthquake and was restored, retaining its original Baroque facade and interior details.