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.

Niet missen

• 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

Manieren om Museum of the City of Mexico (Museo de la Ciudad de Mexico) te bezoeken

Geschikt voor

Hoe reizigers het beoordelen

Bereikbaarheid

Goed om te weten

• 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.

Een stukje geschiedenis

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.