Mexico City, Mexico
Anahuacalli Museum

Get to know another side of the famed artist Diego Rivera.

Is it… an ancient temple? Well, this fascinating museum will surely be unlike any other you have seen before. If it weren’t for the glass panels at the center, you might have mistaken the museum to be a relic of the past. After all, it is built from black volcanic stone, which gives it a distinct greyish-black shade. Built to resemble a teocalli (“god-house”), it is clear that the design has been significantly influenced by Teotihuacan culture. The name of the museum - Anahucalli - means “house surrounded by water” in the language of the Aztecs. Here’s another fact: The museum was designed by Rivera himself!


So, what can you find within? Well, you art enthusiasts will be delighted to know that a significant portion of Rivera's massive collection of pre-Hispanic art is on display here. Of course, it won't unfold before your eyes as you might expect. When you enter, you will be transported to the ‘underworld', dark and cool as it tells of the gods that rule here. As you head up to the second floor, you will find the terrestrial plan. And what about the third floor? You guessed it! This floor is meant to represent the heavens and does just that. You can find and sculptures from the ancient Teotihuacan culture along the way masks, among other eye-opening finds. It’s bound to be a one-of-a-kind experience here at the Anahuacalli Museum!


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Tips Before You Go
Visit from April to sometime in early December to pop in for the free concerts that the museum usually hosts on Sundays.
19.3231951
-99.14390249999997
Museo 150, San Pablo Tepetlapa, 04620 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico