Self-Guided Museum Tour

The Templo Mayor consists of an outdoor Archaeological Zone where the remaining foundations of the original buildings can be seen. Across the site is the Templo Mayor Museum, divided into eight main exhibition rooms. Throughout this space, the Museum highlights aspects of Aztec life and culture and stories told through various artifacts discovered inside this historic site.

Table Of Contents

1. Self-Guided Museum Tour
2. Phase IV
3. Coatepantil
4. Coyolxauhqui Monument
5. Frog Altar
6. Stage III
7. House of Eagles / Casa de las Águilas
8. Tzompantil Altar
9. North Red Temple
10. Temple of Tlaloc
11. Chacmool Statue
12. Collector de Agua
13. Tlaltecuhtli
14. Room 1 – Historical Background
15. Room 2 – War and Sacrifice
16. Room 3 – Tribute and Trade
17. Room 4 – Huitzilopochtli
18. Room 5 – Tlaloc
19. Room 6 – Flora and Fauna
20. Room 7 – Agriculture
21. Room 8 – Historical Archeology

Tips on Visiting Templo Mayor

Hours & Admission

The Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is Closed on Mondays. Access to the Museum and Archaeological Zone costs $95 Mexican pesos per person ($5 USD). Children under 13 years of age, students, and seniors are free if they can present their current identification.

Sundays offer free admission, but be aware that this is the busiest day at the Museum, with long lines at the entrance. Currently, there is no option for easy online ticket sales for those living outside Mexico.

How to Get to the Templo Mayor

Accessing Templo Mayor is convenient and straightforward. Located in the heart of Mexico City, Templo Mayor is situated just off the Zócalo, the city’s main square, in the Historic Centre. Visitors can easily reach the site by taking the Metro to the Zócalo station (Line 2) and walking a short distance to the entrance. Additionally, there are several bus routes and taxis available, making it accessible from various parts of the city.

What to Wear / Bring

I’d recommend at least two hours, if not three, for a thorough visit. Because a section of the Museum is outside, you’ll want to dress for the weather with a good wide-brim sun hat in the summer, lots of sunscreen and bottled water. If the weather calls for rain, try to go to the museum part first, as this is indoors and head back outside once the rain has passed. Many areas of the archeological zone are rough underfoot so wear comfortable walking shoes.

History of the Templo Mayor

Construction on the Templo Mayor began in the 14th century. It was located in the center of the Aztec capital city of Tenochtitlan, now modern-day Mexico City. According to legend, the Aztecs were guided to this spot by their god, Huitzilopochtli, who instructed them to build their city, where they saw an eagle perched on a cactus eating a snake. This image is now so crucial to the Mexican people that it is depicted on the Mexican national flag.

The Templo Mayor’s design consisted of two grand pyramids dedicated to the Aztec Gods Huitzilopochtli, the god of war and the sun, and Tláloc, the god of rain and fertility. The two temples were connected by a double staircase, and the entire complex was surrounded by a large plaza. For the Mexica, the Templo Mayor held the central position in their cosmology, symbolizing the heart of the universe and making its location immutable. Consequently, whenever they sought to expand it, they constructed a new edifice atop the existing one, maintaining its core features: two chapels at the summit and a dual staircase on the main façade. This process was repeated at least seven times, meaning layers of hidden histories are inside.

The shape of the buildings in the Templo Mayor complex was divided into four quadrants, which mirrored the axis mundi of the universe. Today, nothing remains of the pyramids, but the lower-level plaza or sacred precinct and the decorations that adorned this area are what remains to explore.

Aztec Life and Culture

The Aztecs were renowned for their complex social, political, and religious systems and impressive architectural and engineering achievements. They had highly developed advanced agricultural techniques, including chinampas (floating gardens), which allowed them to sustain a large population. Their economy was based on agriculture, tribute from conquered regions, and a vibrant market system. Over the next two centuries, Tenochtitlán grew into a powerful city-state that dominated the Valley of Mexico and beyond. The Aztecs formed the Triple Alliance with the city-states of Texcoco and Tlacopan, expanding their influence through conquest and trade.

The Aztecs spoke Nahuatl, which is still spoken by around 1.5 million people in Mexico today. They used a system of pictographic writing to record historical events, religious rituals, and daily life. Codices, or illustrated manuscripts, are valuable sources of information about Aztec culture.

Aztec Religion

The Aztecs had a polytheistic religion with a pantheon of gods, each associated with different aspects of life and nature. Their religious beliefs were deeply intertwined with their cosmology, which envisioned the universe as a precarious balance of forces requiring constant appeasement through rituals and sacrifices.

One of the most striking aspects of Aztec religion was the practice of human sacrifice. This was seen as essential to appease the gods and ensure the continuity of the world. The Templo Mayor was dedicated to Huitzilopochtli and Tláloc, two important gods in the Aztec concept of atl-tlachinolli. Atl-tlachinolli, symbolizing the duality of water and fire, is central to Aztec cosmology and intricately tied to their tradition of human sacrifice. Representing the balance between life and death, creation and destruction, atl-tlachinolli underscores the belief that human blood and hearts were necessary offerings to nourish the gods and maintain cosmic order. This duality is reflected in the rituals held at the Templo Mayor, where sacrifices were made to ensure the fertility of the land, the success of military endeavours, and the overall harmony of the universe. The Mexica sought to sustain the gods and renew the cosmos through this practice.

The Fall of Tenochtitlán

After a series of battles and a devastating siege, Tenochtitlán fell to the Spanish in 1521, and the Templo Mayor’s destruction symbolized the Aztec civilization’s collapse. The Spanish built their new city on top of the ruins of Tenochtitlan, which eventually became Mexico City. Not wanting to waste precious material nearly, the Spanish tore apart the pyramids and used pieces of stone from the myriads to construct the new Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. After tearing down the great pyramids, the rest of the Templo Mayor lay buried beneath the new city for centuries, and its existence was largely forgotten.

Archaeological Zone & Sacred Precinct

The ruins of the Templo Mayor were discovered in 1978 during electrical work near the Zócalo in Mexico City. Workers unearthed a large stone disk depicting the goddess Coyolxauhqui. This significant find led to extensive excavations by the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History, revealing the temple’s twin pyramids and numerous artifacts.

Phase IV

When you enter the Sacred Precinct, you will walk around a series of pathways that guide you around the Archeological Zone. The first area you enter is called Phase IV, constructed in AD 1469-1481 during the reign of Axayacatl, the sixth tlatoani or lord of Tenochtitlan. One of the first buildings you will see is the platform, which is all that remains of one of the two great shines. This platform is decorated with stone carvings of writhing serpents that retain some of their original painted colourings, demonstrating how vibrant these temple complexes would have been when they were first created.

Coatepantil

In addition to the undulating serpents, you can see the Coatepantil, or “wall of serpents,” where carvings of snakes’ heads protrude from the walls. Serpents are so important to the symbology of the Templo Mayor because they are connected with the mythical hill of serpents, Coatepec. According to Mexica mythology, the god Huitzilopochtli was born at Coatepec. At Coatepec, Huitzilopochtli defeated his siblings, including his sister Coyolxauhqui, who had plotted to kill their mother, Coatlicue.

Coyolxauhqui Monument

Atop this platform once stood the great carving of Coyolxauhqui. Today, you can see a recreation of the stone tablet, the original of which can be found inside the museum exhibition space. Coyolxauhqui was a significant deity in Aztec mythology. She was the moon goddess and the sister of Huitzilopochtli, the god of war and the sun. According to the myth, Coyolxauhqui led her 400 brothers, the Centzon Huitznahua (representing the stars), in a rebellion against their mother, Coatlicue. After a ball of feathers touched her, Coatlicue became miraculously pregnant with Huitzilopochtli.

Angered and ashamed by this miraculous pregnancy, Coyolxauhqui and her siblings decided to kill their mother. However, as they attacked, Huitzilopochtli sprang fully armed from his mother’s womb and defeated his siblings. He dismembered Coyolxauhqui, throwing her head into the sky to become the moon. The dismembered depiction of Coyolxauhqui on the stone illustrates her violent end and reinforces Huitzilopochtli’s power and the importance of the Templo Mayor as a site of mythological and religious significance for the Aztecs.

Frog Altar

In this area, look for a pair of frog sculptures in the middle of the shrine, where they appeared on a small altar. The frogs would originally have been painted blue, as they were associated with the water god Tlalc due to their natural connection to water and their behaviour during the rainy season, which aligns with Tlaloc’s domain. Frogs are often seen as harbingers of rain because they become more active and vocal during the rainy season, emerging in large numbers after rainfall. This natural behaviour made them symbols of water, fertility, and the life-giving properties of rain, all under Tlaloc’s purview.

Stage III

Leaning on the stairs in Stage II is a series of human-looking figures leaning against the south side of the building. Centzonhuītznāhua, also known as the “Four Hundred Southerners,” represent the stars of the southern sky and the siblings of Huitzilopochtli, the Mexica god of war and the sun. In Mexica mythology, these deities plotted to kill their mother, Coatlicue but were defeated by Huitzilopochtli at his birth, symbolizing the sun’s triumph over the stars and night. Their defeat highlights the importance of conflict and sacrifice in maintaining cosmic order and balance, key themes in Mexica’s belief.

House of Eagles / Casa de las Águilas

One of the shrines still present on the site is the House of Eagles, named after the two eagle heads that flank the exterior of the building, as well as the discovery of several Eagle night statues, men dressed in armour that resemble eagles, which can be seen inside the museum exhibition. Inside the House of Eagles, the walls are decorated with paintings depicting a procession of men, a ritual of penitence, and the rite of self-mutilation.

The House of Eagles served was a vital center for the elite Eagle and Jaguar Warriors, where they convened to deliberate on military strategies and conduct exclusive religious rites. Within its sacred confines, these warriors offered human blood before the idols of Mictlantecuhtli, the Lord of Death, in ceremonies to appease the gods and ensure their favour in battle. Additionally, the precinct was accessible to the Cuahchicqueh, or Shorn Warriors, who also played a significant role in these sacred and strategic gatherings.

Also, inside the house of the eagles, in a room, you can find a four-petaled flower carving with the image of five chalchihuites, precious stones, or jades carved atop it. Chalchihuites, or precious green stones such as jade and turquoise, held profound significance in Mexica culture, as they symbolized wealth, fertility, and divine favour. These stones were highly valued not only for their beauty but also for their symbolic meanings and spiritual associations. As symbols of wealth and high status, chalchihuites indicated prosperity and social prestige, often adorning the elite, including rulers and high-ranking warriors, in elaborate jewelry, headdresses, and ceremonial costumes.

Tzompantil Altar

Continuing to the southeast, you can look at the Tzompantil Altar or the Altar of the Skulls. Tzompantli, or skull racks, were used to exhibit the severed heads of sacrificial victims, often warriors captured in battle, as offerings to the gods. The altar itself was an imposing and macabre sight, with wooden poles and crossbeams filled with rows of skulls, each meticulously arranged to maximize visibility. This display served both religious and socio-political purposes: it was a powerful symbol of Mexica military prowess and a stark reminder of the consequences of opposing their rule.

The Tzompantli Altar was closely associated with the worship of Huitzilopochtli, the god of war and the sun, and Mictlantecuhtli, the god of death. Sacrificial rituals conducted at the Templo Mayor were believed to nourish these deities and ensure the continued prosperity and balance of the cosmos. The skulls displayed on the Tzompantli were thought to carry the life force necessary to sustain the gods and, by extension, the Mexica people. This practice underscored the Mexica belief in the cyclical nature of life and death, where the death of captives and sacrificial victims was essential for the regeneration of life and the maintenance of cosmic order.

North Red Temple

The North Red Temple to the east of the Altar of Skulls is a beautiful example of Teotihuacan-style architecture. Inside this shrine is an altar with a relief carved into the front depicting a scene of bodily scarification or self-mutilation using a ball of hay covered in agave thorns. This temple was consecrated to the god Xochipilli. Xochipilli, known as the “Flower Prince,” is a prominent deity in Mexica mythology associated with flowers, love, art, games, beauty, dance, and song. Xochipilli’s name reflects his connection to pleasure and creative expression. Xochipilli is depicted surrounded by flowers and holding objects related to art and beauty, symbolizing fertility and the natural world’s aesthetics.

Temple of Tlaloc

The oldest remnants found in the sacred precinct can be seen outside in stage II, built in 1390. These areas contain the remnants of the Temple of Tlaloc to the north and the Temple of Huitzilopochtli to the south.

Chacmool Statue

At the top center of the Tlaloc temple is a sculpture of a male figure painted in blue and red. This type of sculpture is called a chacmool. A chacmool statue is a distinctive type of Mesoamerican sculpture that features a reclining figure with its head turned to one side, and its knees drawn up. Its elbows rest on the ground, supporting a plate or a bowl on its stomach or chest. These statues are found throughout various Mesoamerican cultures, including the Mexica, Maya, and Toltec civilizations, and they served important ritualistic functions, particularly in sacrificial ceremonies.

The primary purpose of a chacmool was to act as a receptacle for offerings, which often included human hearts or blood, food, incense, and other valuable items intended for the gods. Positioned prominently in temples or other sacred spaces, the chacmool’s bowl or plate was used to hold these offerings during religious rituals. The posture of the figure, with its head turned to the side and its serene expression, suggests a state of receptiveness and submission, reinforcing its role as a conduit between the human and divine realms, a concept that was central to Mesoamerican spirituality.

The Brasero Tlaloc

One of the most impressive objects found in the sacred precinct is the Tlaloc Brazier. The polychrome statue was used in rituals to honour the god Tlaloc and ensure the provision of rain necessary for crop growth and agricultural fertility. The image of Tlaloc is wearing a headdress and a diadem of chalchihuites or precious stones and crowned in feathers.

One of the best ways to identify the god Tlaloc is by the circular and bold eye rings. The practical implications of these rituals, such as ensuring agricultural fertility, were a testament to the deep understanding and application of natural principles in Mesoamerican culture.

Temple of Huitzilopochtli

Right beside the temple of Tlaloc is the Temple of Huitzilopochtli. Huitzilopochtli was the god of war and the sun, and the Temple of Huitzilopochtli is characterized by its imposing and elaborate architecture, which reflects the importance of the deity it honours. It was a stepped pyramid, rising in several tiers, and accessed by a grand staircase leading to the summit temple. This elevated position symbolized Huitzilopochtli’s paramount role in the Mexica pantheon as the protector of the Mexica people and the bringer of the sun.

Rituals and ceremonies at the Temple of Huitzilopochtli were central to Mexica religious life. These rituals often involved human sacrifices, which were believed necessary to nourish the sun god and ensure the continuation of the world. Victims, often captured warriors, were sacrificed atop the temple, with their hearts offered to Huitzilopochtli and their bodies sometimes thrown down the steps of the pyramid. These practices were intended to demonstrate the Mexica’s devotion to Huitzilopochtli and to secure his favour in their military endeavours.

Collector de Agua

As you approach the indoor museum and exhibition areas, you will pass under the various excavated collector de agua, which were the Mexica people’s system to manage and utilize water within the temple complex. This system was essential for both practical and ceremonial purposes, reflecting the importance of water in Mexica religion and daily life. The Templo Mayor’s water collection system included channels, cisterns, and reservoirs designed to capture and store rainwater. These structures ensured a reliable water supply for the temple’s various needs, including cleansing rituals, offerings to the gods, and possibly even the daily use of priests and temple workers. The system’s design demonstrated Mexica’s advanced engineering skills and ability to create functional infrastructure that integrated seamlessly with their religious practices.

Templo Mayor Museum Exhibition Walkthrough

The Templo Mayor Museum exhibition space houses an extensive and diverse collection of artifacts providing comprehensive insight into the Mexica civilization, particularly its religious, cultural, and social practices. The Templo Mayor Museum houses an impressive collection of over 7,000 objects discovered during excavations of the Templo Mayor site in Mexico City. These artifacts include effigies, clay pots, skeletons of various animals, snail shells, coral, gold, alabaster, Mixtec figures, ceramic urns from Veracruz, masks from Guerrero, and copper rattles.

Tlaltecuhtli

When you enter the space, look down from the top of the lobby into the space below, where you can see an imposing statue of the Earth Goddess, Tlaltecuhtli. Tlaltecuhtli, often called the “Earth Lord,” is a significant deity in Mexica mythology, representing the earth and its fertility. Tlaltecuhtli is typically depicted as a monstrous figure with gaping jaws and a body covered in various creatures, symbolizing the earth’s voracious appetite for life and death. This deity is associated with both creation and destruction, embodying the earth’s power to give life through fertility and to reclaim it through death. The Mexica believed that human sacrifices were necessary to appease Tlaltecuhtli, ensuring the fertility of the land and the continuation of life. This monolith weighed almost 12 tons and was once at the foot of the Templo Mayor.

Room 1 – Historical Background

The first room inside the museum provides a historical overview of the temple’s significance, construction, and role in Mexica society. It includes a detailed model of the Templo Mayor complex, maps of the ancient city, and informative panels explaining the temple’s dual dedication to Huitzilopochtli, the god of war, and Tlaloc, the god of rain and agriculture. In addition, a collection of over 100 different offerings deposited by the Mexicas was unearthed during the excavation.

Room 2 – War and Sacrifice

This room delves into the Sacred Precinct, or the ceremonial heart of Tenochtitlan, where the Templo Mayor was located. Artifacts include ceremonial offerings to the gods to gain good favour and improve crops and victory in war. Funerary offerings such as musical instruments, knives, skulls, braziers and green stone masks are displayed throughout the room.

Room 3 – Tribute and Trade

The third room highlights the Mexica people’s economic, political, and military domination from 1430 to 1519 and the objects related to the pochtecas. The financial power of the Mexica people was primarily due to the pochtecas, who were professional merchants and traders in the Aztec Empire. They travelled long distances to procure luxury goods such as precious stones, feathers, cacao, and exotic textiles, which were highly valued by the elite. Besides their commercial activities, pochteca acted as spies and diplomats, gathering intelligence on rival states and facilitating regional communication. Their wealth and specialized knowledge afforded them a high status within the Mexica society, and they operated within organized guilds that maintained strict regulations and traditions.

Room 4 – Huitzilopochtli

In this room were found pieces related to the god Huitzilopochtli. You’ll also find a ceramic sculpture of an eagle warrior once housed inside the House of Eagles and a series of stone sculptures representing the Centrzonhuitznahua, Huitzilopochtli’s brothers. These are the same sculptures as you would have seen recreations of outside. The Centzonhuitznahua, also known as the “Four Hundred Southerners,” were stars in the southern sky and, along with their sister Coyolxauhqui, plotted to kill their mother, Coatlicue, after she became miraculously pregnant with Huitzilopochtli. However, Huitzilopochtli was born fully armed and defeated his siblings, symbolizing the sun’s triumph over the stars and the moon. This myth underscores the cosmic struggle between light and darkness in Mexica cosmology.

One of the most important pieces in this room is a stone sculpture of fire serpent, Xiuhcoatl, Huitzilopochtli’s weapon. Xiuhcoatl, which translates to “Turquoise Serpent” or “Fire Serpent,” is the weapon wielded by Huitzilopochtli. This mythical serpent is often depicted as a snake-shaped weapon, symbolizing fire and solar power.

The Old Gods

Another two gods important to Aztec culture can be found here. The old god of fire, Huehueteotle, is depicted here. Huehueteotl is a deity representing the ancient and enduring aspects of fire. Often depicted as a wizened old man carrying a brazier, Huehueteotl symbolizes the life-sustaining and transformative power of fire, crucial for warmth, cooking, and rituals. His imagery often shows him with a solemn expression, emphasizing his connection to the ancient past and the cyclical nature of time.

There is also a sculpture of Mictlantecuhtli, the god of the dead. Mictlantecuhtli was the ruler of Mictlan, the underworld. Often depicted as a skeletal figure adorned with bones and jewelry, he embodies death and the afterlife. His domain is the final destination for most souls, where the dead journey through nine levels of challenges to reach rest. Mictlantecuhtli’s imagery, with a skull face and empty eye sockets, emphasizes his association with death, darkness, and the inevitable end of life, playing a crucial role in Mexica beliefs about mortality and the afterlife.

Between rooms 4-5, you can see the original monolith of the goddess Coyolxauhqui. This carving is over 3.2 meters wide and is one of the best examples of Aztec art.

Room 5 – Tlaloc

Inside this room are all the objects gathered that represent the god of Rain, Tlaloc, and objects related to water, harvest, and fertility. Despite Mexico City being in the centre of the country, there are a surprising number of marine symbols present, such as conch shells carved from volcanic stone and fish carved from mother of pearl.

Room 6 – Flora and Fauna

In room six, you can see examples of the ecological environment unique to Mexico and Mexico City. Plants and animals were always a large part of the symbolism in art and the codices of the Aztecs, and many animals were thought to be manifestations of the gods themselves. These exhibition spaces show the viewers the kind of diversity there was in ancient Teotihuacan.

Room 7 – Agriculture

One of the most ingenious and significant innovations that propelled the Mexica people’s empire was the use of chinampas. These Mexican chinampas, a form of ancient agricultural system, transformed the shallow lakes of the Valley of Mexico into fertile lands. The creation of these ‘floating gardens’ involved piling mud and vegetation into rectangular, raised beds separated by canals, anchored by willow trees, and cultivated with maize, beans, squash, and tomatoes. This pioneering technique enabled year-round agriculture, high productivity, and efficient water management, playing a pivotal role in sustaining large urban populations like Tenochtitlan.

Throughout this room, there are also many objects associated with various gods associated with agriculture, such as Chalchiuhtlicue, Chicomecoatl, and Xipe-Totex.

Room 8 – Historical Archeology

The last room in the exhibition space details the arrival of the Spanish in 1591 and the subsequent horrific conquest in 1521. The objects inside these parts of the museum demonstrate the stark differences between the Spanish and Aztec cultures and the eventual war that would erupt between them.

I hope you have enjoyed our visit to the Templo Mayor Museum, and throughout this self-guided tour, you’ve gained profound insights into the rich cultural and religious tapestry of the Mexica civilization. The architectural and artistic achievements of the Mexica people found inside the ruins of the Templo Mayor help connect you to the timeless legacy of one of Mexico City’s most significant historical sites.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Your Complete Self-Guided Tour of the Templo Mayor, One Of The Best Museums In Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Despite our rather stressful introduction to the park, in getting lost we uncovered so many different parts of the park I had never seen mentioned in other guides! I made it a point to return the next morning! I arrived early in the day, set out to explore every inch of Chapultepec Park. What I discovered was truly one of the most spectacular public parks I had ever seen. Not only is Chapultepec Park unsurpassed in terms of beauty, but it also has a long history that dates back to the 10th century. The park is heralded for its bio-diversity, lush gardens, and home to some of Mexico City’s most iconic landmarks. It is no surprise to learn it won the gold award from the World Urban Parks Association as one of the most beautiful parks in the world!

But it’s not just a tourist destination either; it’s also full of life. Locals come here to cool themselves under the forest canopy and snack on incredible street food. If you’re looking to escape city life and immerse yourself in nature, Chapultepec Park is the place to be!

Guide to Chapultepec Park

1. What to Know Before you Arrive
2. Hours & Access
3. The History of Chapultepec Park
4. Map of Walking Tour
5. Puerta de Leones
6. Monument to the Ninos Heroes
7. Petrogrifo de Moctezuma
8. Ahuehuete "El Sargento"
9. Memorial Squadron 201
10. Cincalco Cavern
11. Audiorama
12. Chapultepec Castle Hill
13. Museo del Caracol
14. Chapultepec Castle
15. Street Food
16. El Lago de Chapultepec
    • The Casa del Lago
17. Librería Porrúa
18. Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec
19. Museo Nacional de Antropología
    • Museo de Arte Moderno
20. Zoológico de Chapultepec
21. La Casa de la Bici Bosque de Chapultepec
22. Fuente del Quijote
23. Poets' Causeway
24. Carrusel De Chapultepec
25. Fuente de las Ranas
26. Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotlht

What to Know Before you Arrive

Bosque Chapultapec or Chapultapec Park is enormous. It is twice the size of Central Park, which many people think of as one of the largest parks in the world! So having a guide to follow or knowing what you want to see when you’re there is key. Bosque Chapultapec or Chapultapec Park is actually divided into three sections or “Seccións.” This guide will explore the First section, which is both the oldest portion of the park and contains the most important landmarks.

Key Tips

• As mentioned above, the park is HUGE. Give yourself the entire day if you’re planning on exploring all of the first section.
• Arrive early in the morning, not only to give yourself lots of time to visit but also to avoid the crowds which peak in the afternoon.
• Most of the signage in the park is all in Spanish. Use this guide to help you get the context to understand what you’re seeing. Download the Google Translate app and the Spanish language pack to be able to translte signage with your camera.
• There are no restaurants located inside the park. The only place to eat is at street food stalls, which primarily surround the lake. You can also grab a bite to eat at the Anthropology or Modern Art Museum.
• Chapultepec has a strict no food or beverage policy. That means you can’t even bring in food to eat later in the park. So if you plan on picning, be sure to eat before you enter the castle. They will often search your bags so don’t think you can just hide it.
• Various Museums offer free entry on Sundays. Be sure to check their websites in advance if you’re looking to save some money on entry fees.
• Weekends are by far the busiest time to visit the park. But that is also when most street vendors are out, and the park’s personality shines. Just plan accordingly.

Hours & Access

The park is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m Tuesday – Sunday. The First Section of Chapultepec Park is closed on Mondays for maintenance.

To arrive at the proper (and most impressive) entrance to Chapultepec Park, direct your Uber to drop you off in front of the Estela de Luz monument. If you prefer to take the Metro you can take it to Chapultepec Station. From the station’s exit, head north up to Lion’s gate entrance.

The History of Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park is situated around Chapultepec Hill, the sacred heart of the city. The Toltecs named the hill “Chapultepec” around the 12 century. The word “Chapultepec” means at the grasshopper hill in the native Nahuatl language of the Toltecs. There is some disagreement among historians whether the name comes from the plethora of grasshoppers that lived in the area or if it was due to the shape of the hill looking like the silhouette of a grasshopper.

At the top of the hill, the Toltecs placed their sacred altar. We know this as there have been remains of this alter excavated at the hill’s summit. The hillside served as a defensive advantage, as it stood looking out of the shores of Lake Texcoco. Despite this advantage, it wouldn’t be along before the Toltecs were overcome.

When the Aztecs conquered the city, they continued to use the hill as a spiritual place. They saw it as a place of power, and it was here that they buried the ashes of their rulers. For this reason, when visiting the park and the palace, we should act very respectfully. Remember you are walking over what was an Aztec graveyard. The various rulers of Mexico City would carve their images onto the eastern side of Chapultepec hill. Thinking this would preserve their memories in stone forever.

The area around the Chapultepec hill was plentiful with freshwater. Monarch Nezahualcoyotl utilized this access to build the first aqueduct that helped direct this freshwater into the city. Nezahualcoyotl loved nature and felt at peace here. He was the first to build a summer palace in the area in 1428. Here he could escape the busy city. Like today, the rich and powerful love escaping countryside mansions.

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Moctezuma II

By the 15th century, the forest was primarily used as a retreat for various Aztec rulers. We have Moctezuma II to thank for so many of the amazing aspects of this park that still exist today. The plentiful trees, plants and waterways around the park were all installed under his watchful eye. Many of the original cypress trees can still be seen today. These are also called “ahuehuete” trees and they mark the ancient outlines of the park. Moctezuma was also the first to build a zoo and arboretum just near the foot of the hill.

One of the most unique aspects of the park you can still visit today is Moctezuma’s Baths. The waters from the aqueducts were channelled into these reservoirs where locals could bathe. Aztecs were a very clean society, with most people bathing at least once a day! There were also several “temazcales” on-site. There were pre-Hispanic saunas and used for ritual cleansing.

The Spanish Invasion

Sadly this period of peace for the Aztecs couldn’t last forever. Here in the forest, the Aztec’s took their last stand against the Spanish in 1521. It was the last stand the Aztec had to save themselves from the eventual conquest. After the land was stolen by the Spanish, Chapultepec Hill and the land around it was given by Cortez over to the Franciscans. The religious order built a temple on the hill. Their attempt to convert the locals over to Christianity by appropriating the Aztec holy site. During this time, the rocks where the Aztec rulers carved their image were destroyed by the Franscian’s. But one stone managed to survive. It depicts Montezuma II’s feathered headdress carrying an omechicahuaztli (a sceptre for rain rituals) in his hand.

Developement of Chapultapec Castle

Chapultepec remained in the hands of the Franciscans for another few hundred years. But in 1785, the church was demolished to make room for a residence for the colonial rulers. This would become Chapultepec Castle. The forest around the castle was to be used as a hunting ground and place for recreation for the upper classes. It was abruptly walled off from the general public. This was such a loss for the people as the sanctuary has been such a meaningful place for hundreds of years.

Even after the Mexican War of Independence, the castle was used as the official residence for the head of state. But happily, the park was opened to the public once more. During the Mexican-American War of 1846, Chapultepec Castle was used as a military academy. It was also used as a political prison. In 1847 it would be the site of another great battle between the Mexican and U.S. troops. During the Second Mexican Empire, the palace transferred hands once. It was given over to the new governor of the city, Maximilian of Habsburg. He transformed it into a truly impressive imperial palace.

Porfirio Díaz Era

Under the rule of the Porfiriato government, the city began to undergo a huge transformation. Porfirio Díaz was obsessed with the idea of turning Mexico City into a European paradise. One of the aspects of his plan involved overhauling the landscape design of the city. He employed José Yves Limantour, Secretary of the Treasury, to revamp the forests around Chapultepec Castle. They installed paved avenues and roads, plazas, fountains, auditoriums and monuments. It was also during this time that large artificial lakes were built.

20th Century

The castle remained in the hands of the government, serving as the presidential residence until 1940. Los Pinos was built at the southwest edge of the park. This new “White House-inspired” neo-classical structure would serve as the new presidential residence and office. Chapultepec Castle was converted into a museum housing relics of the Maximilian era. As well as pieces of history from Mexico’s struggle for independence.

In the 1960s, the park saw its most tremendous modern expansion and construction. The park’s second section was created, and the Pantheon of Dolores was built. The large cemetery a final resting place for the illustrious dead of Mexico’s past. Various modern museums were commissioned. These institutions were a place to show to the locals and the world the cultural heritage of Mexico City. This included the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Gallery of History, the Caracol Museum, and the National Auditorium. There are nine different museums in total located inside the walls of Chapultepec Park.

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Creation of the 3rd Section

The third and final section of the park was created in 1974. The area is primarily a dense forest, that has been declared a Protected Natural Area. In order to combat the growing levels of air pollution, the government developed these protected zones to plant new trees which filter the air. Today, Chapultapec is known as one of the sets of “lungs” which help Mexico City breathe by replenishing oxygen to the city. This part of the park is also a refuge for migratory birds. During the winter, hidden in the trees are birds from Canada the U.S., feeling the cold. But there is also plenty of local wildlife like Mexico’s Cooper hawk, Harris’s hawk, wild ducks, and Vireos, Warblers and Kingfishers.

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Map of Walking Tour

Puerta de Leones

The intricately patterned black iron gates welcome you into Chapultepec Park. But guarding the entrance on either side are these two gigantic lions. This is the great Puerta de Leones or Lion’s Gate of Chapultepec Park. The colossal bronze beasts stand atop granite pedestals, their heads pointing out towards the Paseo de la Reforma. Their eyes keenly open, as if on the lookout for any incoming enemies.

The sculptures were created by French artist Garden and installed here in 1921. They have been greeting friendly visitors ever since. During the big Mexican holidays like Día de Muertos, this gate is often cheerfully decorated with beautiful paper flowers.

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Monument to the Ninos Heroes

Walking through the gates, continue down Avenue Juventud Heroica. The Avenue crosses over the busy Centro Bicentenario highway that you can hear roaring underfoot. At the end of the overpass, you can see the towering columns of the Monument to the Ninos Heroes. As mentioned earlier, Chapultapec Park was the site of the great Mexican American battle of 1847. After being overtaken by the U.S. Army, various cadets who had been defending the palace fled to the inner walls of the castle. Cornered with nowhere to go, six Mexican cadets jumped onto the cliff below. They would rather have died by their own will than be captured or killed by the enemy. Today each one of these six men are honoured within this incredible monument.

The enormous structure was designed by architect Enrique Aragón and sculptor Ernesto Tamariz. Each of the towering six columns features a niche at the base of the pillar. Inside is an urn that contains their ashes. The white columns are capped with the image of the Mexican golden eagle, whose wings reach towards the sky. While the cadets the eagle depicts their divine flight into heaven.

In the centre of the six columns is a large sculpture called the “Altar a la Patria” or Altar to the Homeland. The sculpture depicts a Mexican woman holding the lifeless body of a soldier in one arm. Beside her other arm stands a soldier. He stands tall, seemingly guarding her and the homeland. In honour of those who died guarding her before him.

Petrogrifo de Moctezuma

You’ll find a series of pathways that swirl around the park just beyond the main entrance. Make your way to the enclosure that surrounds the base of the hill. Beyond the fence is a seemingly innocuous rock. This is the Petrogrifo de Moctezuma. These petroglyphs set into the hill’s eastern slope have a series of carvings that you can make out as you look closer. These are the last remaining carvings from the pre-Hispanic rulers. In the top right, you can see the xiuhhuitzolli of Moctezuma II. The xiuhhuitzolli is the turquoise headdress worn by Aztec Mexican royals. The headdress is usually covered in bright blueish-green feathers to symbolize the god Huitzilopochtli. Huitzilopochtli was the god of the sun and the god war. His named means “hummingbird,” which is why the colourful feathers are used in his image.

Ahuehuete “El Sargento”

Continuing around the edge of the hillside, walk along the pathways surrounding the hill. Around the corner is a giant stone memorial, but blocking your initial view of the memorial is a hulking tree trunk. Do not just walk by but take a moment to study the dried-out piece of wood. This is one of the famed Ahuehuete (cypress) trees found inside the park. But this one is extra special. It is called “El Sargento,” as it was planted by Nezahualcoyotl in 1460 on the orders of emperor Moctezuma.

The tree managed to survive for over 500 years, growing up to 40 meters in height. But sadly, it died in 1969. Although these trees are able to live for generations the lack of freshwater, as the ground dried up due to pollution, brought an end to this great tree. A devastating blow to the people of Mexico City. The city created a monument out of the trunk, to preserve what remained for generations to come. It is still a very sacred space for visitors today. And also a warning about pollution and the destruction it can bring.

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Memorial Squadron 201

The enormous stone memorial behind the tree is dedicated to the Mexican 201st Fighter Squadron. This aerial army was initially formed when Mexico came to the aid of the Allies during World War II. During their initial training in Texas, they were nicknamed the “Aztec Eagles,” a name they wore with pride. Despite the historical conflict between Mexico and the USA, they managed to come together in this monumental moment in time. Together, they were able to defeat Japanese troops invading the Philippines. Their Squadron was given credit for keeping 30,000 Japanese troops out of action and destroying enemy-held buildings, vehicles, anti-aircraft guns, and the all-important ammunition depots. The memorial was built to remember the fallen soldiers of the wars as well as the survivors of the military expedition to the Philippines.

Cincalco Cavern

To the left of the memorial is a little path that wraps around the back. Behind here is where you’ll find a little hidden zen garden called the Audiorama. But historically, this area has been one of the most sacred spaces in Mexico City for generations. During the pre-Hispanic period, this place was the entrance to the Cincalco Cavern. The Aztecs believed that these caves were portals between the living and the dead. It was here, many believed, that Tláloc, the god of water, lived.

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In 1162, Huémac, the last Toltec governor, committed suicide after his people were defeated and his city fell. He felt he had failed them and it was here he wished to pass on, submit himself to the will of the gods. Perhaps with his sacrifice, his people would be spared. In modern times, the cave has been sealed off for security reasons. But you can still see the arched entrance that once led inside the hill. The garden is surrounded by an array of wild plants, fruit trees, small rose bushes, and calla lilies.

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Audiorama

In the 1970s, the city decided to revamp the space as a modernized “sacred space” for the residents. It was designed as an outdoor library to read. A series of colourful benches spread out throughout the enclosure provided comfort under the trees. But to enhance the experience, music is pipped into the forest throughout the day through a series of little hidden speakers.

There are different types of music played on different days of the week. On Tuesdays, you get new age, traditional Mexican rhythms on Wednesdays, melodies from Spain, Greece or Brazil on Thursdays, jazz on Fridays, chill out for Saturdays and classical music on Sundays. The Audiorama is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm. Please respect the silence requested upon entering this part of the park as this is a place for rest and relaxation.

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Chapultepec Castle Hill

Head back the way you came and make your way to the ramp leading to Chapultapec Castle.

Hours and Admission

You need to buy your admission tickets at the booth at the bottom of the hill. Be sure to do this BEFORE you head up the ramp, which leads to the castle. There is nowhere at the top of the hill to buy tickets. The walk is fairly long and steep, and on a hot day, it would be torturous to have to head all the way back down. We saw dozens of people that had this problem and their dejected faces were so sad. So be sure you don’t make this same mistake. The line for the tickets moves very quickly but if you plan on visiting at the absolute peak of the season you should arrive early to beat the crowds.

Hours: 9 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays.
Admission: 85 pesos (US$4) per person. Tickets are free for children under 13 and seniors over 60 years old. Teachers and students with valid credentials and people with disabilities also can get in free.
Be sure to bring some cash as often the machines are often down and tickets are cash only.

After purchasing your ticket, you need to climb the winding hill that encircles the palace. While the pathway is mostly smooth, for anyone with mobility issues, the incline can be tiring. The walk is especially difficult due to the high elevation in Mexico City. It can be slightly harder to catch your breath. Take it slow; there’s no need to rush. In fact, the walk up the hill provides some incredible views across the park and the city. Make sure you drink plenty of water. Even on what might feel like a cooler day, you still can get dehydrated just from the elevation.

Museo del Caracol

Near the top of the ramp, before arriving at the Castle, you’ll approach the Museo del Caracol. A ‘Caracol’ is a snail, as the museum’s exterior is designed to replicate the shape of a sea snail. Inside, to view the exhibitions within, you descend down a spiral staircase, also mirroring the swirl of a snail’s shell. The windows that line the edge of the staircase are filled with dioramas. Each one tells a story relating to the history of Mexico City. From the end of the viceroyalty to the Constitution of 1917.

As the admission is only 80 pesos (US$4), I think it’s well worth a quick look through. There is something about dioramas that really helps bring the country’s history alive. Even if you can’t understand the narration, the scenes are so expressive that you can really get a sense of what’s happening. I think some people might think the museum is a bit cheap and cheesy but I really enjoy all those dollhouse-like detailed scenes.

Hours: 9 am to 4 pm Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: $80 pesos per person. Tickets are free for children under 13 and seniors over 60 years old. Teachers and students with valid credentials and people with disabilities also can get in free.

Chapultepec Castle

The castle itself is divided into two sections; the Museum of Anthropology on the left side and the Palace (or Alcazar) interiors on the right. The Museum of Anthropology is housed inside the former Military College. The collection is a wonderful way to physically see the history of Mexico City, from the time of the conquest until the 20th century, come alive in front of you. Clothing, paintings, objects and elements of everyday life are all on display. My favourite part of this section of the castle has to be their collection of murals. The expressive Mexican murals bring historical events into three dimensions despite being painted on a two-dimensional surface.

The Alcázar portion of the building is where you’ll find various rooms inside the palace still decored as they could have been in the 19th century. During this period the castle was occupied by emperors Maximiliano and Carlota and thereafter President Porfirio Díaz and his wife Carmen Romero Rubio. It is incredible to see how the spaces change as the hands of ownership change. For a complete guide of the Castle Museum check out our full tour here.

Street Food

After finishing up at the castle, walk back the hill towards Avenue H. Colegio Militar. This road will weave its way through the forest towards the best lookout point across Chapultepec Lake. This avenue is absolutely packed with street vendors! Although there is a larger “food court” beside the lake, I would avoid this area. Perhaps since they have more permanent booths, the food can be left inside and therefore isn’t of the highest quality. But the food vendors that flank the roadways are really delicious. So stick with them! These might not be as filling as the meals on offer in the food court area, but you’re better off with a safe bet.

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Guide to Street Snacks

Below are a few of my favourite street snacks so you can keep your eyes out for these reliably delicious traditional treats.

• Chicharron: deep-fried pigskin doused in chilli sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice. Duritos: Duritos (not to be mixed up with Doritos) are a wheat-based pinwheel-shaped snack topped with hot sauce and lime.
• Dorilocos: If you’re looking for something more like a meal, find your way to the Dorilocos vendor. This dish is made by taking a bag of Doritos and slicing it down the long edge, so it opens like a bowl. Then they top it with Mexican radish, shredded cucumber and carrot and Japanese peanuts. Then, of course, it’s topped with lime juice and hot sauce on top. 
• Papas: freshly made potato chips served with hot sauce and lime.

• Paletas: frozen fruit bars made with fresh and natural ingredients. They are made with either milk or fruit juice base. My favourite has got to the mango and chilli!
• Tamarind Candies: Look for brands like Tama-Roco, Pulparindo or Pelón Pelo Rico. There is also Salsaghetti which is watermelon candy in the shape of spaghetti noodles covered with tamarind sauce. 
• La Molienda: coconut candy bar in the colour of the Mexican flag.
• Vero Mango: mango-flavoured candy covered in chile powder.
• Slaps Lollipop: Mexican fruit roll-ups that taste just like a jolly rancher!
• Mazapanes de la Rosa: A peanut-based sweet
• Pepitoria: crunchie wafers filled with honey or caramel, and decorated with pumpkin seeds.

El Lago de Chapultepec

After all those snacks, a great way to burn off some calories is with a pedal around El Lago de Chapultepec. This man-made lake is one of the most picturesque places to take a little blue paddle boat and take in the scenery. The views from the middle of the lake are fantastic and even look out at the Colonia Polanco. The boats cost 60 pesos/hour (around the U.S. $3). Normally, such a touristy activity would price gouge visitors but not here in the park. The locals enjoy a ride as much as the tourists, so prices are kept low to ensure everyone can enjoy a day out!

The Casa del Lago

While paddling on the Lake, you have a fantastic view of the Casa del Lago, the Chapultapec Lake House. The house was built in the 1900s as President Porfirio Diaz‘s summer mansion. Today it serves as the UNAM (Mexico’s National Autonomous University) Chapultapec cultural center.

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Librería Porrúa

If you don’t feel like grabbing a bite to eat from the street vendors, you can head up to the Librería Porrúa. This charming bookstore library is located just on the edge of Chapultepec Park. In addition to a wonderful selection of books, there is a coffee shop inside. You’ll find here a super delicious selection of coffee, snacks, paninis, and more. Plus if it’s a really hot day, its a lovely spot to come and cool off.

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Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec

From here, lets pop into the Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec. While the roped off garden beds and greenhouse might feel modern, these nurseys have been here since the days of Moctezuma. When the Spanish first arrived in Mexico they were amazed by these royal gardens they saw. So much so that they would write home about the incredible plants they found.

The Aztecs had some of the most diverse and exotic gardens. They were filled with medicinal plants for healing wounds. Herbs for cooking as well as fragrant flowers just there for their beauty.

The Botanical gardens we find here today were inaugurated in 2006 over a 5-hectare protected area. Covering the land area are over 400 different plants and trees. The garden is divided into different themes based on the different kind of plants. There are the pollinators, the edible plants, the succulents and the wetland plants. Plus 14 different species of wild dahlias, cacti and agave.

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Orquideario Bosque de Chapultepec

Towards the back of the Botanical Garden you’ll find the glimmering stained glass rooftop that leads you inside the Orquideario Bosque de Chapultepec. This 500-square-meter greenhouse was built in the 1940s and contains stunning examples of Mexican art deco design. The huge barrel domed ceiling runs the entire length of the greenhouse.

The vibrant Aztec inspired stained glass design casting beautiful rainbows of light down on the flower and ferms below. Inside the humid glasshouse, you can find their precious collection of orchid. s is maintained.

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Botanical Garden Open: 9 am to 6 pm Tuesday to Sunday | Orchid Garden Open: 9 am to 3 pm

Museo Nacional de Antropología

For the rest of the afternoon, there are a few different museums that you can explore. If you’ve never been to Mexico, let alone Mexico City before, the Museo Nacional de Antropología is a wonderful place to learn more about the country’s history. The museum contains significant archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage. It is considered a national treasure and a symbol of Mexico’s identity.

Stone of the Sun

One of the most significant pieces of the collection is the Stone of the Sun or the Aztec calendar stone. This sizeable circular stone carving weighs 24,590 kg and is over 141 inches wide! It dates back to approximate the beginning of the 16th century. The Stone of the Sun was so precious to the people of Tenochtitlan that after the Spanish invaded, they buried the stone under the Zocalo. In the hopes that hiding it there would keep it safe.

The Stone was only discovered in 1790 when repairs were required under the new Mexico City Cathedral. After the discovery, the church actually mounted the stone on the building’s exterior. There it remained for almost a hundred years. Perhaps as a way to convince unconverted Mexicans over to the Christianity. Finally, in 1885, it was moved to the new Archaeological Museum inside the El Chopo Musuem in Colonia Santa María la Ribera. It remained there until the opening of this museum.

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Architecture of Museo Nacional de Antropología

If you only see the design of the building from the front facade you might think the building is rather simple and austere. The white bricked facade is devoid of any decoration save for the central medallion featuring a stone carving of the eagle of Mexico City with a serpent in its mouth. But to see the real architectural treasure you need to head inside towards the back courtyard. The building was designed in 1964 by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, Jorge Campuzano, and Rafael Mijares Alcérreca. The courtyard features a huge concrete umbrella supported by a single slender pillar (known as “el paraguas,” Spanish for “the umbrella”). Water pours down from the umbrella into the vast square pond below. It’s one of the most impressive structures I’ve ever seen and the sound of the rain falling is hypnostizing.

Open: 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday, Closed Mondays
Admission: Permanent exhibition $85 pesos (US $4)
To use a video camera, you must get a permit and pay a fee of $45 pesos.

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Museo de Arte Moderno

Right beside the Botanical Gardens is the Museo de Arte Moderno. The Museum of Modern art contains the largest collections of Mexican art from the 20th century. The museum was built in 1963 under the guise of architect and designer Pedro Ramírez Vázquez and Rafael Mijares. Even without all the artwork, this museum is a wonder to explore.

It’s collection features work from José Chávez Morado, David Alfaro Siqueiros, José Clemente Orozco and Remedios Varo. But most famously, it owns a few precious paintings by Frida Kahlo. Frida Kahlo produced a relatively small oeuvre, and getting to see one of her paintings in real life is an exceptional experience. Her surrealist self-portrait ‘Las dos Fridas‘ is one of her most impactful pieces. This piece was painted shortly after her divorce from fellow Mexican artist Diego Rivera. It was a means for her to process the depression and loneliness she experience after the divorce.

Open: 11 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday, Closed Mondays
Admission: $65 pesos (US $3)

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Zoológico de Chapultepec

If you’re travelling with children, instead of a museum, a visit to the Zoológico de Chapultepec is a great alternative. While adults might give it a miss (as there aren’t really any uniquely “Mexico-City” aspects to the zoo) it’s always a hit with kids. Plus, admission is free for everyone! This is a huge bonus since activities with kids can get really expensive. The only part of the zoo that requires an entry fee is the butterfly house (US$3.50). There are many classic zoo animals to see here. Everything from lions, rhinos, monkeys, tigers, and, most famously, their great Chinese Panda .

But if you’re going to visit, my best advice is to be sure to see the Xoloitzcuintle. The Xoloitzcuintle is a hairless dog native to Mexico. The name ‘Xoloitzcuintle‘ is from the Nahuatl languagee and is derived from the word ‘Xolotl’ who was the god of fire and lightning. ‘Itzcuīntli‘ was the Nahuatl word for “dog,” for it basically translates to “God’s dog.”

Open: 9 am to 4:30 pm Tuesday to Sunday
Admission is free

La Casa de la Bici Bosque de Chapultepec

If museums aren’t your thing, a wonderful way to explore the rest of the park is by bike. The park’s winding back routes and pathways are sprawling! To see it all, the best way is to hop on a bike. You can pick up a rental bike from the central Casa de la Bici in the southwest corner of the park. This place rents out bikes for 70 pesos per hour (the U.S. $3.30) or 100 pesos (the U.S. $4.80) for two hours. You are required to leave a valid photo I.D. with them to ensure you return with the bike. Don’t leave anything important like your passport, but a driver’s licence or even a health card will be OK. Most of the bikes have adorable white baskets on the front. Perfect for storing your treats or backpacks so you can bike around unimpeded.

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Fuente del Quijote

Whether you’re cruising around on the bike or just walking on foot, here are a few other stops you might want to make around the park. Just north of the bike rental house is the Fuente del Quijote. A ‘Fuente‘ is the Spanish word for fountain. The ‘Fountain of Don Quixote‘ dates back to 1921 and it is one of the most incredible fountains in the entire park. The rather small central fountain with four central mermaids is surrounded by four stone benches covered in handpainted tiles. Each of the hundreds of tiles features detailed images from the book Don Quixote de la Mancha by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. By looking at each one you could easily piece together the entire story.

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Restoration of the Fountain

Sadly, in 2015 the fountain was severely vandalized. Two statues of famous painter Salvador Dalí and Mexican master Diego Rivera were both stolen, never to be seen since. Many of the tiles were also taken or partially destroyed. The figures actually have a history of thievery. They were first made by Spanish sculptor Miguel Alessio Robles by stolen in 1974. So they were replaced by another set made by José María Fernández Urbina. Unfortunately, these would be sentenced to the same fate.

But thanks to public donations, the entire fountain is on its way to looking brand new once more! You can even make a donation yourself! A great way to support the park and preserve it for generations to come. Donations can be as little as 200 pesos (US$10), and it really goes a long way ! While you can’t entre the enclosure while restoring are underway, you can peek inside to get a sneak peek at once was. Plus you can even see the artists at work throughout the week, hard at work hand painting tiles.

Poets’ Causeway

Off to the east from the Fuente del Quijote is the Calzada De la Poetas or Poets’ Causeway. Along this stretch of the pathway are a series of busts of famous poets from the 19th and 20th centuries. The statues include Doña Inés de Asbaje y Ramírez de Santillana, better known as Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz OSH. Doña Inés was a Mexican writer, philosopher, composer and poet of the Baroque period. And to top it all off she was even a Hieronymite nun. Salvador Díaz Mirón was a Mexican poet known for his passionate, romantic style, influenced by Lord Byron and Victor Hugo. Manuel José Othón was a Mexican poet, playwright, and politician. One of his most famous works is Idilio Salvaje, considered one of the most representative poems of Mexico. You can read a part of this poem on the small plaque beside his bust.

Carrusel De Chapultepec

Through the forest, to the west of the park, is the hidden away Carrusel De Chapultepec. Although this is meant for kids, I’m a sucker for a beautiful carousel. And this one is no exception. The amazing double-decker Carrusel De Chapultepec is a relatively new addition to the park. It was moved here in 2018 from its original location in Alameda Central. But its history is much older. Before its life in Mexico City, the carousel was once in Chicago but first made in Venice! Look up along the ceiling and roof that encircles the carousel. There, you can see intricately painted vignettes featuring scenes from life in Venice. An automatic piano plays music as the carousel spins, with over 1,800 spotlights twinkling as it turns round and round.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday.
Admission: $18 pesos (less than US$1) to ride. Adults can sit in the wooden benches on the first level.

Fuente de las Ranas

At the intersection of Avenue H. Colegio Militar and Calz. Mahatma Gandhi is the Fuente de las Ranas. The Fuente de las Ranas or Fountain of the Frogs is an exact replica of a fountain of the same name in Seville. When Spanish lawyer Miguel Alessio Robles was named the Mexican minister in 1921, he ordered the fountain to be made. He wanted to bring to Mexico City a piece of his home country.

The fountain was first installed at the park entrance but has since been moved towards the back of the park. The fountain is covered in beautiful Sevillian tiles. Surrounding the outer edge is a series of eight rotund golden painted frogs. Their open mouths spraying water towards the bronze duck and tortoise who sit in the centre of the fountain. The duck sits atop the turquoise with its mouth pointing upwards, shooting water from its mouth into the air. It’s such a playful fountain and a wonderful addition to the park. It’s these little gems that make wandering the pathways so endearing.

Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotlht

Opposite the Fuente de las Ranas is the entrance to best fountain of them all; the Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotl. Nezahualcóyotl is a name we’ve heard before as his impact in the history book, as well as in Chapultepec park was immense! Nezahualcóyotl was the monarch of the city-state of Texcoco in ancient Mexico from 1429 to 1472. He was known as a great poet in addition to a fantastic scholar and wonderful architect. His name means the “fasting coyote,” as fasting was considered a form of sacrifice. Some monarchs would do to attempt to appease the gods and aid their people. If you look for one of the old Mexican 100 peso bill you can see his face. Along with his portrait is one of his most cherished poems. It goes;

I love the song of the mockingbird,
Bird of four hundred voices,
I love the colour of the jadestone,
And the intoxicating scent of flowers,
But more than all, I love my brother, man.

Nezahualcóyotl

Nezahualcóyotl’s Dam

The Monumental Fuente de Nezahualcóyotl is by far the largest of all the fountains in the park. The fountain begins to emerge from the edge of the forest, and covers 1,250 square meters. Flowing like a vein up to the central square and domineering statue at the end of the wall-like fountain. It was made by sculptor Luis Ortiz Monasterio in 1956. The shape of the fountain was inspired by Nezahualcóyotl’s Dam. Nezahualcóyotl was instructed by Moctezuma I to construct a dam over 16 km long. The dam was to be used to defend against the flood waters which plagued the ancient Tenochtitlan (Mexico city). Nezahualcóyotl was also responsible for the aqueducts in Chapultepec forest that supplied Tenochtitlan with safe drinking water. This work earned him the reputation of the best architect in the Americas.

Monasterio’s fountain-like dam was inspired by the pre-hispanic architectural styles of the 15th century. Entering this area, you are greeted by a fantastic carving of a giant coyote. The coyote has his mouth open wide, a menacing smile, with water gushing forth. Water also flows out of the hundreds of carved medallions along the top of the wall. Once one carved from black stone from Xaltocan.

Statue and Life Reliefs of Nezahualcóyotl

Along the facade of the fountain you’ll find eight large bas reliefs. Each one depicts a scene from the life of Nezahualcóyotl. The first relief shows Nezahualcóyotl’s birth, the death of his father, his battles for the territory, the arrival of water to Chapultepec and his death in 1472.

The sculpture in the centre of the square is of Nezahualcóyotl himself, standing nine meters tall. Watching over his beloved park forever. Behind him is a wall made of volcanic stones with three symbols emblazoned up the facade. Each of the symbols refers to the three tribes of indigenous peoples that inhabited the Valley of Mexico; the Texcoco, Tenochitlán and Tlacopan. It is a wonderful place to end the tour, to remember that this space was one a sacred site for the indigenous peoples and we are lucky to still be able to enjoy this green oasis today.

Chapultepec Park is truly a must-visit if you’re in Mexico City. It’s not only the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful day out, but also where you can learn a lot about Mexican culture and history. Make the effort to carve out the time to really appreciate the beauty of this sprawling natural sanctum.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Ultimate Guide to Chapultepec Park: Historical and Cultural Heart of Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.