Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Museo Nacional de Antropología | Mexico City

During our short time in Mexico City, we took a walking tour to the National Museum of Anthropology and History. We wanted to share some photos because it's a must-visit in Mexico City.

The museum is divided into rooms that are dedicated to ancient Hispanic civilizations like the Aztecs, Mayas, Zapotecas, Mixtecas, Purépechas, Olmecs and others. It really helped having a guide to point out interesting displays (because the place is huge) and share background information. I didn't know much about the history in this part of the world and was just soaking up every bit our guide was sharing.

Also, the museum building has an impressive design. There's a giant concrete "umbrella" in the center supported by one pole. It was designed and built by Mexican architect, Pedro Ramírez Vázquez in 1964. 

One more post from Mexico City, then Cuba! Also, I'm getting really anxious to update the blog with a new look and can't wait to share it with you all. 

- Julia

Giant concrete "umbrella" covering the center courtyard of the museum.
View of the city from underneath the umbrella.
This sculpture has a bowl on top that was used to hold human hearts during sacrificial ceremonies. 
Seeing things like this makes me want to travel back in time.
The original Stone Of The Sun (Aztec "calendar").
A reconstruction of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztecs (located in the center of modern day Mexico City).