MEXICO CITY’S HISTORIC HEART
The Zócalo, officially known as Plaza de la
Constitución, is one of the biggest and most
important city squares in the world. It’s the beating
heart of Mexico City, where history, culture, and
celebration come together.
IT’S ANCIENT
The Aztecs used this
same area as the center
of their capital,
Tenochtitlan.
SURROUNDED BY HISTORY
The Zócalo is framed by
the National Palace, the
Templo Mayor, the
Metropolitan Cathedral,
and historic buildings.
HUGE SPACE
The square measures
more than 48 thousand
meters. It’s one of the
largest public squares
on Earth—big enough to
fit thousands of people!
UNDERGROUND HISTORY
Beneath the plaza are
the ruins and vestiges of
the ancient temples of
the great Tenochtitlan,
making it a place with a
rich underground history.
STRONG STRUCTURES
The buildings surrounding
the Zócalo, were built
using materials and
structures from the
ancient houses of
Tenochtitlán.
CENTRAL MARKET
During the colonial era,
the Zócalo served as a
market known as “El
Parián.” In this large
central market, residents
could buy all kinds of
goods from Asia.
MASSIVE CONCERTS
Memorable concerts
have taken place on the
square, featuring
internationally renowned
figures such as Paul
McCartney, Pink Floyd,
OLYMPIC GAMES
The Zócalo was the
starting point for the
Marathon of our 1968
Olympic Games.
PLAZA DE LA CONSTITUCIÓN
Constitution Square has
had several names,
including Plaza de
Armas, Plaza Principal,
and Plaza del Palacio.