National Palace

National Palace

The National Palace is the seat of the federal executive branch of Mexico, occupying the entire eastern side of Constitution Square in the heart of Mexico City. Stretching over 200 meters in length, the building features a red facade. Since the time of the Aztec Empire, this site has been the palace of Mexico’s rulers. Most of the current building’s materials were taken from the original palace of Montezuma II.

The National Palace has three entrances, with the main gate crowned above by the Bell of Dolores. Above the bell is a balcony where, every year on Mexican Independence Day, the President of Mexico leads the shout of “Viva México!” The interior of the National Palace consists of Spanish-style courtyards, and its corridors also feature Spanish architectural elements. The corridor walls are adorned with murals depicting pre-Hispanic Mexican life, among which the most notable is Diego Rivera’s depiction of the Feathered Serpent, created between 1929 and 1935. In the center of the palace courtyard stands a bronze fountain topped with winged bronze horses. The National Palace also has a very elegant and tranquil “rear garden,” filled with pleasing greenery and an ideal spot for rest.

National Palace (Mexico)

Must-visit reason: A highly popular palace in Mexico

Continent: North America

Country/Region: Mexico

Province/State: Federal District [México D.F]

City: Mexico City