Zócalo & Centro Histórico★★★
The Zócalo (officially: Plaza de la Constitución) is one of the largest squares in the world and the heart of Mexico for over 700 years. Here stood the main temple of the Aztecs, here the Spanish viceroys resided, and here Father Hidalgo declared independence in 1810.
Around the Zócalo
- Palacio Nacional: Residence of the President. In the staircase, the monumental murals by Diego Rivera (1929–1935) tell the entire history of Mexico — from the Aztecs to the Revolution. Free, but bring ID! Duration: 1–2h.
- Catedral Metropolitana: The largest cathedral on the American continent (1573–1813), built on the foundations of an Aztec temple. Note the slanted tilt — the cathedral is slowly sinking into the soft lakebed.
- Palacio de Bellas Artes: 10 minutes west. Art Deco meets Art Nouveau in this stunning cultural palace (1934). Inside: murals by Rivera, Orozco, Siqueiros, and Tamayo. Folklore ballet on Sundays. Admission: 85 MXN.
💡 Tipp
The Zócalo is most lively on weekends — often with Aztec dancers, live music, and street stalls. Visit in the morning during the week when the tour groups haven't arrived yet.
