Architectural gems dating back centuries surround the majestic central square, with pre-Columbian ruins, intriguing museums and markets filling the borough.

Cuauhtémoc is the historic, cultural and economic hub of Mexico City. It is an eclectic zone, containing some of the city’s oldest sights and religious buildings, as well as modern skyscrapers. Visit Cuauhtémoc to learn about pre-Columbian and colonial history.

The centre point of the city is the Zócalo, a large square surrounded by some of Mexico City’s most iconic attractions. Marvel at the mesmerizing façade of the Metropolitan Cathedral, which dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest of its kind in Latin America. Admire the gorgeous façade of the long and baroque Palacio Nacional. Inside, find a collection of murals by Mexican painter Diego Rivera.

A little north of the plaza is the Templo Mayor, the excavated ruins of the Tenochtitlán temple. Join a guided tour of the Templo Mayor Museum to learn about the Aztec civilisation through its various artefacts.

Dozens of museums are scattered across the Cuauhtémoc neighbourhood. Venture a few blocks west to reach the Banamex Cultural Palace Museum (Former Palace of Iturbide), a baroque structure providing a glimpse into Mexican customs.

Make your way south to the Doctores zone, where you’ll find the Antique Toy Museum. Head west to the San Rafael district and study the Monumento y Museo de la Revolución, which contains the tombs of several revolutionary heroes.

Cuauhtémoc takes its name from the last Aztec emperor. For a sense of today’s culture, browse the Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela and the Mercado de San Juan.

To reach Cuauhtémocm, travel by metro to one of the many stops here, including Allende and Bellas Artes, or get around the large area via bus. Explore the surroundings to see the zones of Granjas México, Anzures and Campestre Churubusco.

Old meets new in the diverse and informative borough of Cuauhtémoc.