National Museum of Anthropology
Location
The National Museum of Anthropology is located in the Chapultepec Park, in Mexico City. Its exact address is:
Avenida Paseo de la Reforma and Calzada Gandhi s/n, Colonia Chapultepec Polanco, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico.
Climate and Altitude
Climate: Mexico City has a temperate sub-humid climate. The average annual temperature is around 16 to 18°C (60.8 to 64.4°F). Summers can be rainy, while winters have cool nights.
Altitude: Mexico City is situated at approximately 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level.
Description of the Place
The National Museum of Anthropology is an extensive cultural complex that houses a vast collection of pre-Hispanic and ethnographic artifacts. With its 23 permanent exhibition halls and spaces for temporary exhibitions, the museum offers a deep immersion into the history and culture of Mesoamerican civilizations and other indigenous cultures of Mexico.
History
The museum was inaugurated on September 17, 1964, and was designed by architects Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, Jorge Campuzano, and Rafael Mijares Alcérreca. It was created with the purpose of housing and exhibiting Mexico’s vast archaeological and anthropological heritage and has been a symbol of the country’s national and cultural identity since its opening.
Visiting Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Monday: Closed
Meaning
The National Museum of Anthropology is one of the most important museums in the world in its category and stands out for its vast collection spanning from prehistory to contemporary indigenous cultures of Mexico. It is a key place to understand the cultural richness and diversity of the country.
Admission Prices
- Adults: $90 MXN
- Students, teachers, and seniors (with valid ID): Free admission
- Sundays: Free entry for Mexican citizens and permanent residents with official ID
- Children under 13: Free entry
- People with disabilities and their companions: Free entry
Features of the Place
- Exhibition Halls: 23 permanent halls including the Mexica Hall, Maya Hall, Oaxaca Hall, Gulf of Mexico Hall, among others.
- Star Piece: The Sun Stone (Aztec calendar) and the Coatlicue sculpture.
- Central Garden: It features a pond and a spectacular monumental umbrella designed by architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez.
- Gift Shop: Offers books, reproductions of archaeological pieces, and souvenirs.
How to Get There from Mexico City Center
Metro: Take line 1 (pink) towards Observatorio and get off at Chapultepec station. From there, you can walk about 15 minutes to the museum.
Bus: Several buses and minibusses pass near Chapultepec Park.
Taxi/Uber: This is a convenient and direct option from anywhere in the city.
What to Do
- Explore the permanent exhibition halls.
- Visit the temporary exhibitions.
- Stroll through the gardens and outdoor areas.
- Participate in workshops and educational activities.
- Buy souvenirs in the museum’s gift shop.
What is Most Characteristic
One of the most distinctive features of the National Museum of Anthropology is its extensive and detailed collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, including the Sun Stone, the Olmec colossal heads, and the monumental Coatlicue sculpture. The museum’s architectural design, especially its monumental umbrella in the central courtyard, is also very emblematic.
Nearby Accommodation
- Hotel Marquis Reforma: A luxury hotel located near Chapultepec Park, offering excellent service and amenities.
- Hotel Camino Real Polanco: An iconic hotel in Mexico City, with distinctive architecture and a convenient location near the museum.
- Hostal Cuija Coyoacán: A more economical and cozy option, ideal for young tourists and backpackers.
