#ArtRoute through Mexico City

CDMX #ArtRoute in 3 days

1. Capultepec Castle

You would never imagine to find such a marvelous building in the middle of the chaotic-city life of Mexico City. Chapultepec Castle is the reflection of Mexico’s intricate history and fusion between its Pre-Hispanic and Hispanic culture. The minute you arrive to Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Forest), you’ll notice on the top of the hill, known in Náhuatl as Grasshopper Hill, the splendorous Chapultepec Castle. This hill that now holds a panoramic view of one of the largest cities in the world and a clear image of the opulence and architecture brought by the Spanish in colonial times, was once a land surrounded by lakes, springs, mountains and kilometers of forest, and an important Mexica religious temple.

• About it’s history: The castle’s history dates back to 1785, when the viceroys Matías and Bernardo de Gálvez began the construction of their retreat mansion, which they never lived. Later on, it suffered some changes to serve as the headquarters of Mexico’s Military Academy; survived the invasion of North America, and during the French Intervention became Maximilian of Habsburg and his wife Carlota of Belgium –emperors of Mexico– residence. After gaining their independence, it was used as the presidential home and headquarters for the government; until it became a museum in 1944. - Rooms you can’t miss: Carriage Room, Lions’ Staircase, Dining Room, Carlota’s Bedchamber, Stained Glass Gallery & Ambassadors Reception Hall.

- Extra: Museum of Modern Art

After you are done with the castle tour, don't forget to visit Museum of modern Art just at the Forest's exit.

2. Historic Center

If you are going to visit CDMX's historic center, you should save an entire day for it, there is so much to see. It is the city’s ancient heart, its core, where it all began.

I absolutely love city’s centers; I think they reveal the true essence of the city and its culture, hiding so much history behind each building.

• The first place you should go is "Plaza Zocalo", the center's main plaza. Many of the buildings found here are historically important, and because of this, the "Centro Histórico" has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around this plaza, you will contemplate no less than three different types of architectural styles: Aztec ruins, colonial churches and buildings and an Art Nouveau hôtel. .

• Catedral Metropolitana (Metropolitan Cathedral): It is Latin America’s biggest church. Three hundred years were necessary to build it (from 1525 to 1813), which explains the different architectural styles: Neo- Classical, Baroque, and Neo- Renaissance. However, the most dominant architecture style is Baroque. Fact: Mexico City sinks 3 feet every year! You can clearly see how the buildings are leaning, specially this cathedral.

• La Casa de Azulejos (Tile House): One of the most beautiful pieces of novo-spanish baroque civil architecture. It is a work of art framed by talavera that fully covers its facade. It was said to be a refuge for supporters of the conquistador Hernán Cortés.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes: For me this was the most striking building in the historic center. I swear I was drooling the whole time! The architecture is one of the most impressive and awe-inspiring elements of the Palacio de Bellas Artes, however, it is not just one single style. This building has a mix of several turn-of-the-century architectural movements, such as Art-Deco, neoclassical and Art-Nouveau. (Art Deco pink columns were just wow). The reason for these many different styles is the change of architect mid-project; Mariscal designed the Art-Deco interior, whereas Boari designed the external neoclassical/art nouveau façade. Palacio de Bellas Artes’s interior is a complete surprise. After admiring the Neo-classical exterior façade, you walk in into an Art-Deco & Art-Nouveau work of art. I was specially in love with the pink marble columns that contrast with the shimmering roof tiles. They give this elegant/ornate, but fun look.

- Extra: If you are into trying new types of food, stop at the market in front of the museum. You'll find every kind of the typical Mexican food, drinks, and sweets.

• La Azotea del Barrio la Alameda: After walking the historic center, you will for sure need a break and something to eat/drink. If I were you, I'd stop at "la Azotea", a rooftop with a view to the center and to "La Alameda" park, which is the first park in America.

4. Museums:

• Jumex Museum

• Soumaya Museum

6. Teotihuacan PyramidsTeotihuacan means ”The Place where the Gods were created, and it is the ancient City of Pyramids. It’s so worth it to save an entire day in your #ArtRoute through CDMX to visit this city of pyramids. This is no ordinary place. It is ancient and shrouded in mystery, with a magical vibe. It’s unbelievable to see that a place built hundreds of years ago, is filled with so much architecture, design, and detail. If you are an architecture lover like me, this place will blow your mind. (You will also have lots of time to meditate and think when you get to the top - you’ll be exhausted).

This city is located about 50 kilometers of Mexico City, it was one of the larger urban centers in the ancient world. It flourished between 2,100 years ago. However, who built the city and what the city’s own inhabitants called it is unknown, it’s current name was given my the Aztecs.

The two main pyramids are the Moon and the Sun. Pyramid of the Sun is one of the largest structures created in the pre-Columbian New World and the 3rd largest pyramid in the world. Height of 75 meters and a base more than 225 meters. (248 steps). This Pyramid consist of 3 millions tons of stone! It’s so impressive how humans built this without any metal tools or help from animals.

8. La Ciudadela Market

If you want to find good prices and quality trinkets, go to this market. It is safe, prices are good, and they have everything you are looking for!

Extra: Restaurants & Food corners

1. Azul Historico: Mexican-gourmet food at the Historic Center. Amazing architecture and design.

2. Huset: Restaurant at La Roma neighborhood. You'll feel as if you were in the country side of Mexico. Sit at the terrace and enjoy an amazing fresh meal.

3. Blanco Colima: My favorite! Located at La Roma. Amazing food and lounge space.

4. Tacos Orinoco: If you want to try authentic Mexican tacos, stop at this place near La Roma. Order "La gringa"tacos. You won't regret it.

5. At every market eat nueces garapinadas (candied walnuts). They are TOO GOOD.

6. Palacio del Hierro: Enjoy this incredible luxurious mall and eat Mexico's famous "Churros" at Churreria el Moro, with a cup of hot chocolate, and sit at the terrace to enjoy the view.

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