Summary
Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11580 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Phone: +52 55 7601 9811
Mexico’s National Museum of History is located in Chapultepec Castle, a historic building of great symbolic and historical value for Mexicans. The castle is situated at the highest point of the hill in the center of Chapultepec Park, offering stunning views of Mexico City’s expansive green spaces.
Architecture and History
This historic castle’s construction began in 1785 under the command of Bernardo de Galvez, who was then viceroy of New Spain. Originally, it served as the summer residence for the viceroy, but it gradually evolved to assume diverse roles, including that of a military academy, an astronomical observatory, and the official home for Emperor Maximilian of Hapsburg and Empress Carlota.
Significant historical events unfolded at this site, including the Battle of Chapultepec during the Mexican-American War. During this confrontation, many young cadets, known as Los Niños Heroes (“the child heroes”), bravely lost their lives defending their country. A powerful legend tells of Juan Escutia, one of the cadets, who wrapped himself in the Mexican flag before leaping to his death to deny the invaders the honor of capturing it. A monument commemorates these heroic lives: officially named Altar a la Patria, it is commonly referred to as the Monumento a los Niños Heroes.
After President Lázaro Cardenas relocated the presidential residence to the more modest Los Pinos, Chapultepec Castle was inaugurated in 1944 as the Museo Nacional de Historia.
National Museum of History Exhibits
The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Mexican history, covering periods from the conquest to the early twentieth century. Its exhibits are organized into two primary sections: the former military school and the Alcázar, showcasing furnishings and personal belongings of notable figures, including Emperor Maximilian, Empress Carlota, and President Porfirio Diaz. Additionally, significant objects from the Mexican Independence and the Mexican Revolution are on display.
Moreover, the museum hosts temporary exhibits and events like concerts, workshops, and lectures, providing visitors a dynamic cultural experience.
Museum Highlights
- Stunning murals from renowned Mexican artists such as Juan O’Gorman, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco.
- A collection of horse-drawn carriages, including ones used by Maximilian and Carlota, and one from Benito Juarez.
- The impressive architecture of the building itself, which played a pivotal role in many historical events.
Facilities
The Grounds: Visitors can enjoy beautiful gardens and courtyards, adorned with statues and monuments, while exploring the museum.
Coat Check: Due to museum policy, bags and packages are not allowed inside. A complimentary coat check is available for visitors’ convenience.
Accessibility: The museum provides wheelchairs for loan and is equipped with ramps for accessibility. Nevertheless, it is important to note that not all areas are wheelchair accessible.
Location and How To Get There
The museum resides within the Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle) in the Primera Seccion (First Section) of Chapultepec Park, near the lake and zoo.
You may take the Mexico City metro Line 1 to Chapultepec station; upon entering the park, pass the monument to the Niños Heroes to find the ramp leading to the museum. The Auditorio metro station is also a short walk away.
If you opt for the Turibus, disembark at the stop near the Anthropology Museum, enter the park, and follow the signage to the museum.
Access to the museum is via a scenic ramp that leads from the base of the hill to the castle gate. Although the walk offers beautiful views, it is slightly inclined. For those preferring an easier journey, a scenic train is available to transport passengers up the hill.
Hours and Admission Fees
The museum operates Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm, and remains closed on Mondays. General admission is priced at 70 pesos per person, while children under 13 can enter for free. Furthermore, Mexican citizens and residents enjoy free admission on Sundays.
Contact Information
Website: mnh.cultura.gob.mx
Social media: Twitter: @Museodehistoria | Facebook: Museo de Historia
More Museums in Chapultepec Park
As one of the cities with the highest number of museums, Mexico City features numerous venues of cultural interest, particularly in and around Chapultepec Park. While visiting, consider also exploring the National Museum of Anthropology and Museo Caracol, both easily accessible nearby.
