World Heritage Sites to visit in Mexico City

The sites designated as Cultural Heritage of Humanity are destinations that stand out because of their exceptional value, whether natural, historical, or cultural. In these corners with tourist attractions, visitors can appreciate and learn about the historical legacy or biodiversity of a country or area in particular. With 35 places on this list, Mexico has the prestigious first place in Latin America and sixth worldwide with the highest number of assets recognized as Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Are you coming to visit Mexico City? Here we tell you all the places in the Mexican capital that are possible to visit and enjoy!

Historic Downtown

The Historic Downtown is, for many, the most important stop on your trip to Mexico City. Did you know that it is the largest in all of Latin America? This extensive space where many historical eras converge, such as pre-Hispanic temples, beautiful palaces, and cultural sites, is an architectural jewel that covers 668 blocks. Here you can find the fabulous Templo Mayor, the incredible Catedral Metropolitana, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo Nacional de Arte, the Torre Latinoamericana, and the Antiguo Palacio del Ayuntamiento, to name a few of its buildings. Considered a World Heritage Site since 1987, the downtow is a place where you can find everything from traditional canteens to luxurious restaurants. A new surprise is always waiting for you in the heart of the metropolis!

Xochimilco

Like the Historic downtown, Xochimilco was added to the list of Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 1987. The numerous canals that are famous all around the world are the living vestige of our pre-Hispanic roots. The trajinera tours, while you listen to Mexican music and eat a typical snack, are the main attraction of this site of color and biodiversity. Here the chinampas are still used and preserved, an ancient method of agriculture that takes advantage of the rivers to grow flowers, vegetables and fruits.

Casa Estudio Luis Barragán

For the lovers of architecture, the perfect place to visit is the Casa Estudio Luis Barragán. Built in 1948 by the renowned Mexican architect, it is the only individual building in Latin America with this distinction. Integrating traditional and vernacular elements, it is an extraordinary example of the constructions of the modern movement. Considered by many as “the masterpiece” of the creative artist from Guadalajara, his work continues to be an influence for architectural work worldwide. Take a look at the tour of this beutiful place in CDMX.

Campus Central en Ciudad Universitaria de la UNAM

UNESCO integrated the Campus Central de la Máxima Casa de Estudios for integrating urban planning, architecture, engineering, landscaping and fine arts with references to Mexican traditions. Bordering the  Estadio Olímpico and several important university buildings, on some facades you can find and appreciate the artistic imprint of great names such as David Alfaro Siqueiros, José Chávez Morado, Juan O’Gorman and Francisco Eppens. The cultural trip to Ciudad Universitaria is complemented by a visit to the MUAC, the building designed by Teodoro González de León for the Centro Cultural Universitario in which the best of contemporary art is exhibited at.