Museo Nacional de Antropología

Overview

The Museo Nacional de Antropología is the most visited museum in Mexico, housing the world's largest collection of pre-Columbian artefacts across 23 exhibition halls surrounding a vast courtyard with an iconic aluminium rain-fountain canopy.

Highlights

• Aztec Sun Stone: The 24-tonne carved basalt calendar stone, Mexico's most recognisable archaeological icon.
• Maya Hall: Jade death mask of Pakal the Great from Palenque, elaborate stelae, and a full-size replica of Bonampak murals.
• Umbrella Fountain: Pedro Ramírez Vázquez's single-column canopy in the central patio, channelling rainwater in a dramatic cascade.

History

Opened in 1964 in Chapultepec Park, the museum was designed by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez. Its 44,000 m² of exhibition space span Mesoamerican civilisations from the Olmec (1500 BCE) to the Aztec (1521 CE).

Visitor Tips

• Prioritise: With 23 rooms, pick 5-6 areas; Mexica (Aztec), Maya, and Oaxaca are essential.
• Admission: MXN 85 (~USD 5); free on Sundays for Mexican residents.
• Duration: 3-4 hours minimum.