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City of Palaces

Mexico City architecture

Mexico City is built on the ruins of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, on a former lake bed that causes some parts of the city to sink up to 20 inches per year. It is one of the oldest and largest cities in the Americas, boasting more museums than almost any other city in the world.

  • 14Landmarks
  • 1813Oldest · Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
  • 246 mTallest · Torre Reforma
  • 13Architects

Before you go

  • Fly intoBenito Juárez (MEX)

    Because of the city's high-altitude location and thin mountain air, pilots must use special takeoff and landing procedures to account for reduced engine performance. It is a massive, bustling hub that connects travelers from North America to every corner of Central and South America.

  • CurrencyMexican Peso ($)
  • LanguageSpanish

    Spanish is the dominant language, characterized by the musical and fast-paced 'Chilango' dialect. It is famous for its creative use of slang and double-meanings, known as 'albur,' which reflects the city's quick-witted street culture.

  • Getting aroundMetro CDMX

    The Mexico City Metro is one of the busiest in the world and uses a unique system of icons for every station. Metrobús operates high-capacity articulated vehicles along several major avenues in dedicated lanes. Cablebús provides an innovative aerial cable car solution for residents living in the city's steepest neighborhoods.

14 landmarks in Mexico City

  1. Palacio de Bellas Artes
    Photo: Xavier Quetzalcoatl Contreras Castillo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Palacio de Bellas Artes

    Av. Juárez S/N, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    The Palacio de Bellas Artes serves as the primary cultural heart of Mexico City and is an architectural masterpiece. Its exterior is a stunning blend of Neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles, crafted from white Italian Carrara marble. In striking contrast, the interior features a magnificent Art Deco design that reflects the era in which it was completed. The walls are adorned with world-renowned murals by legendary artists such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco. Because of its massive weight and the city's soft soil, the building has famously sunk several meters since its initial construction began.

    Built
    1934
    Architect
    Adamo Boari
    Style
    Art Nouveau / Art Deco
    Height
    52 m (171 ft)
    Stories
    4
    Today
    Opera House / Art Museum
  2. Museo Soumaya
    Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Museo Soumaya

    Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11529 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    The Museo Soumaya is a private cultural institution known for its striking avant-garde silhouette that defines the Nuevo Polanco skyline. The structure is covered in a shimmering skin of 16,000 hexagonal aluminum tiles that reflect the changing sunlight. Its interior design is unique as it features no windows on the curved walls to maximize gallery space. Instead, natural light enters through a massive skylight at the very top, illuminating the top-floor sculpture gallery. The museum houses an extensive collection of European masters, including the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of France.

    Built
    2011
    Architect
    Fernando Romero
    Style
    Neo-Futurism
    Height
    46 m (151 ft)
    Stories
    6
    Today
    Art Museum
  3. Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
    Photo: Ulisesmorales, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral

    Pza. de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    This monumental cathedral is one of the oldest and largest religious structures in the Americas, taking nearly three centuries to complete. It was strategically built atop the former sacred precinct of the Aztec Templo Mayor to symbolize the transition of power. The building showcases a complex evolution of architectural tastes, blending Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. Its twin bell towers house 25 bells and offer a commanding view over the Zócalo, the city's main plaza. Inside, the Altar of the Kings is a masterpiece of Churrigueresque style, featuring intricate gold-leaf carvings that dazzle visitors.

    Built
    1813
    Architect
    Claudio de Arciniega
    Style
    Baroque / Neoclassical
    Height
    67 m (220 ft)
    Stories
    2
    Today
    Active Cathedral
  4. Torre Latinoamericana
    Photo: Thomas Ledl, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Torre Latinoamericana

    Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 2, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    Standing as a landmark of 20th-century engineering, the Torre Latinoamericana was once the tallest building in Latin America. It gained worldwide fame for its advanced pylon foundation, which allowed it to survive the devastating 1985 and 2017 earthquakes completely unscathed. The skyscraper features a distinct blue glass and aluminum facade that remains a classic symbol of Mexico’s mid-century modernization. Visitors can visit the 44th-floor observation deck for one of the most comprehensive views of the sprawling valley of Mexico. It represents a pivotal moment in high-rise construction on the challenging, soft lacustrine soil of Mexico City.

    Built
    1956
    Architect
    Augusto H. Álvarez
    Style
    Modernist
    Height
    182 m (597 ft)
    Stories
    44
    Today
    Office / Observation Deck
  5. Biblioteca Vasconcelos
    Photo: Omar_sansi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Biblioteca Vasconcelos

    Eje 1 Nte. S/N, Buenavista, Cuauhtémoc, 06350 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    The Biblioteca Vasconcelos is a 'megalibrary' that serves as a stunning example of contemporary industrial architecture. Its transparent walls of glass and steel are surrounded by a lush botanical garden that acts as an urban lungs. Inside, the bookshelves appear to float in mid-air as they are suspended from the ceiling in a surreal, grid-like fashion. The central nave is dominated by a massive sculpture of a gray whale skeleton created by artist Gabriel Orozco. This space was designed to be a center for culture and learning, integrating nature with high-tech storage for over half a million books.

    Built
    2006
    Architect
    Alberto Kalach
    Style
    Contemporary / Brutalist Influence
    Height
    28 m (92 ft)
    Stories
    7
    Today
    Library
  6. Torre Reforma
    Photo: Cvmontuy, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Torre Reforma

    Paseo de la Reforma 483, Cuauhtémoc, 06500 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    Torre Reforma is a groundbreaking sustainable skyscraper that features a unique triangular floor plan. Two of its faces are solid concrete walls that provide structural stability and thermal mass for the building. A significant engineering feat involved moving a historic 1920s mansion at its base and then sliding it back into place once the foundation was complete. The building has been recognized globally for its earthquake resistance and was awarded the International Highrise Award. Its innovative design allows for large, column-free interior spaces that offer spectacular views of Chapultepec Park.

    Built
    2016
    Architect
    L. Benjamin Romano
    Style
    Contemporary / Brutalist Influence
    Height
    246 m (807 ft)
    Stories
    57
    Today
    Office / Commercial
  7. Estadio Azteca
    Photo: ProtoplasmaKid, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Estadio Azteca

    Calz. de Tlalpan 3465, Santa Úrsula Coapa, Coyoacán, 04650 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    Estadio Azteca is a legendary cathedral of world football and a symbol of Mexican sporting pride. Its massive concrete frame supports a cantilevered roof designed to keep spectators close to the action while offering protection from the elements. The stadium holds the unique distinction of being the first to host two different FIFA World Cup finals. Beyond sports, the venue has hosted major international concerts and historic religious events due to its enormous capacity. It remains one of the most recognizable structures in the city, standing as a testament to 1960s modernist stadium engineering.

    Built
    1966
    Architect
    Pedro Ramírez Vázquez
    Style
    Modernist / Brutalist
    Height
    50 m (164 ft)
    Stories
    6
    Today
    Sports Stadium

  8. Camino Real Polanco

    Calz. Gral. Mariano Escobedo 700, Anzures, Miguel Hidalgo, 11590 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    Camino Real Polanco was envisioned as a 'modern temple' that celebrates Mexico’s rich tradition of color and light. The architecture is defined by its massive, bold-colored walls and the play of shadows across its geometric volumes. A signature feature is the entrance fountain, which uses motion to create a mesmerizing 'wall of water' for arriving guests. The hotel was commissioned to house dignitaries for the 1968 Olympics and houses a significant collection of modern art. It remains a definitive masterpiece of Mexican modernism, emphasizing horizontal space and intimate courtyards over vertical height.

    Built
    1968
    Architect
    Ricardo Legorreta
    Style
    Modernist / Legorreta Style
    Height
    20 m (66 ft)
    Stories
    5
    Today
    Hotel
  9. Museo Jumex
    Photo: Fundación Jumex, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Museo Jumex

    Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11529 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    The Museo Jumex is a striking example of minimalist architecture, clad in local travertine stone. Its most recognizable feature is the sawtooth roof, which is designed to channel consistent northern light into the top-floor galleries. The building is elevated on 14 columns, creating a shaded public plaza that serves as an open-air gathering space. This design approach allows the museum to feel integrated with the urban environment while maintaining a distinct, quiet elegance. It houses one of the most significant private contemporary art collections in Latin America.

    Built
    2013
    Architect
    David Chipperfield
    Style
    Minimalist / Modernist
    Height
    25 m (82 ft)
    Stories
    5
    Today
    Contemporary Art Museum

  10. Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo

    Diego Rivera 2, San Ángel Inn, Álvaro Obregón, 01060 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    This museum consists of two separate blocks—a red one for Diego and a blue one for Frida—connected by a symbolic rooftop bridge. It stands as one of the first and most important examples of functionalist architecture in Latin America. The design utilizes raw materials like concrete and exposed plumbing, reflecting a 'form follows function' philosophy. Large sawtooth windows were incorporated to provide the artists with the ideal overhead light for painting. The surrounding garden is enclosed by a fence made of living cacti, blending the radical architecture with local flora.

    Built
    1932
    Architect
    Juan O'Gorman
    Style
    Functionalism
    Height
    12 m (39 ft)
    Stories
    3
    Today
    Museum

  11. Apple Antara

    Ejército Nacional 843, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11520 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    Apple Antara is a pavilion-style structure designed to dissolve the boundaries between its interior and the surrounding public plaza. It features massive 23-foot sliding glass doors that allow the store to breathe and connect directly with the outdoors. The use of local Mexican limestone on the walls and floors creates a sense of continuity with the city's historic materials. Its curved corner glass panels offer panoramic views and echo the modernist spirit of the Polanco district. The store serves as both a high-tech retail space and a community hub for events and creative workshops.

    Built
    2019
    Architect
    Foster + Partners
    Style
    Contemporary / Pavilion
    Height
    7 m (23 ft)
    Stories
    1
    Today
    Retail / Technology Hub
  12. Palacio de Correos de México
    Photo: ProtoplasmaKid, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Palacio de Correos de México

    Tacuba 1, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    Known as the 'Postal Fifth Avenue,' this building is an architectural jewel located in the historic city center. Its exterior is constructed from pale yellow 'chiluca' stone, featuring intricate carvings in the Plateresque style. The interior is arguably the most beautiful in the city, centered around a monumental staircase made of bronze cast in Florence. A magnificent glass-and-iron dome caps the building, flooding the golden-hued lobby with natural light. Even today, it remains a fully functioning post office while doubling as a museum of philately and history.

    Built
    1907
    Architect
    Adamo Boari
    Style
    Plateresque / Venetian Gothic Revival
    Height
    25 m (82 ft)
    Stories
    4
    Today
    Post Office / Museum
  13. Casa Luis Barragán
    Photo: Francesco Bandarin, CC BY-SA 3.0 igo, via Wikimedia Commons

    Casa Luis Barragán

    Gral. Francisco Ramírez 12, Ampliación Daniel Garza, Miguel Hidalgo, 11840 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    This residence is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. It is the purest expression of Barragán's 'emotional architecture,' where light, color, and texture are used to evoke spiritual tranquility. The house is famous for its bold use of vibrant pink and yellow walls that create dramatic light play throughout the day. Every window is carefully placed to frame the garden as if it were a living painting. The rooftop terrace is a particularly iconic space, where high walls create a sanctuary of sky and pure geometric form.

    Built
    1948
    Architect
    Luis Barragán
    Style
    Mexican Modernism / Minimalism
    Height
    10 m (33 ft)
    Stories
    3
    Today
    Museum / World Heritage Site

  14. Torre BBVA México

    Paseo de la Reforma 506, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

    Torre BBVA is a high-tech skyscraper that dominates the Paseo de la Reforma skyline. Its unique purple-and-gold lattice facade is inspired by traditional Mexican patterns and provides both shade and structural support. The building was designed with a heavy focus on sustainability, incorporating multiple triple-height sky gardens. These green spaces act as vertical parks, providing fresh air and informal meeting areas for thousands of employees. It stands as a modern symbol of Mexico's global financial presence while respecting local artistic motifs through its structural geometry.

    Built
    2016
    Architect
    Legorreta + Rogers Stirk Harbour
    Style
    High-Tech Modernism
    Height
    235 m (771 ft)
    Stories
    50
    Today
    Commercial / Office

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