Tag: architecture
The Amazing Biblioteca Vasconcelos library
We ventured into the Biblioteca Vasconcelos, an architectural masterpiece that left us in awe. Designed by Alberto Kalach and completed in 2006, the library is a modern-day wonder that beautifully intertwines functionality with aesthetic brilliance. The interior is a stunning display of spatial ingenuity, with massive, suspended bookshelves creating a mesmerizing maze of knowledge. As…
Diego Rivera at Palacio de Bellas Artes
We did a visit to the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City. It’s so pretty on the outside. We quickly hurried in as rain seems to be starting. This cultural icon, constructed between 1904 and 1934, is an architectural masterpiece, combining Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. It was mainly designed by Italian architect…
Bazar Artesanal Mexicano in Coyoacán
Coyoacán, an old town established during the Spanish colonial era, is a melting pot of history and tradition, and this market is a testament to that rich heritage. Right there is the Bazar Artesanal Mexicano. The market is a vibrant showcase of artisan craftsmanship. Colorful skulls, a symbol of Mexican art and the Day of…
Views of Chapultepec Castle
Atop a hill in Mexico City lies Chapultepec Park. The journey began with a hike up the hill, a pleasant preamble to the castle itself. Upon reaching the castle, we were immediately struck by its majestic design. Then there’s the gilded staircase, a masterpiece of artistry that exudes opulence and elegance. The panoramic vistas of…
Barrio de Xochimilco’s Aqueduct
In Oaxaca’s oldest neighborhood, Barrio de Xochimilco, an 18th-century aqueduct stands as a witness to history and transformation. Built to bring water from the San Felipe mountain to the valley, this aqueduct was once Oaxaca’s lifeline. The 1931 earthquake, however, marked a turning point. With a magnitude of 8.0, it caused widespread destruction and tragically…
The Splendor of Santo Domingo Church
The Santo Domingo Church and Cultural Center stands as a magnificent testament to the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. My visit to this iconic landmark was an immersion into a world where art, religion, and history converge in stunning harmony. The green rock used in the construction of Santo Domingo Church in Oaxaca is…
Symbolism in Oaxaca’s Architecture
In Oaxaca, buildings adorned with jaguar heads and skeletons are not mere decorations but profound cultural symbols. Jaguars, revered in ancient Mesoamerican cultures for their strength and power. Skeletons, central to Day of the Dead celebrations, embody Mexico’s rich historical tapestry and enduring traditions. And murals played a big part too: The building facade doesn’t…
Uxmal: An Ancient Maya Marvel
Pyramid of the Magician, unique due to its oval base, is steeped in myth. Its name originates from a folk tale about a magician who built the pyramid overnight. The oval shape, unusual in Maya architecture, adds to its mystique and allure. We encountered the Ceiba tree, or Ya’axche in Maya, revered as a symbol…
Ruins of Kabah in the Puuc Region
In the Puuc region of Yucatán, Mexico, the ruins of Kabah are a fascinating testament to ancient Maya civilization. Known for its distinctive Puuc architectural style, Kabah offers a glimpse into a rich historical past. The steep steps of the ruins add to the dramatic beauty of the site, making the exploration both thrilling and…
Starbucks Along Paseo Montejo
This Starbucks is ideally situated on Mérida’s most iconic street, Paseo Montejo. The building, an elegantly adapted old mansion with a terrace, exudes charm and character, contributing to the unique experience. This Starbucks outlet added a local twist to the global Starbucks experience. Starbucks blended the historic charm of the building, a remodeled old mansion,…
Stroll Through Centro Mérida
Wandering through Centro Mérida, I was immediately struck by the rich Spanish heritage echoed in its architecture. This colonial charm, a legacy of the Spanish conquest, is etched in every street and building, telling stories of a past era. I encountered a reproduction of “Ecce Homo”. This artwork gained notoriety after an amateur restoration attempt…
Quick preview of what Mexico City has to offer
We left the airport as it was becoming boring and there’s nothing else to do. The morning in Mexico City begins with a groggy, sleep-deprived arrival at Juarez Metro Station. Despite the fatigue, the city’s morning ambiance is uniquely refreshing Walking towards Alameda Central, one of the city’s most iconic parks, the fatigue begins to…
