Zócalo /Tenochtitlan — Local services in Mexico City

On a college trip to Mexico City with Canisius, I visited the heart of the city—the Zócalo, which is the modern-day name for the main square. The experience was incredible, especially learning how this bustling plaza sits atop the ruins of the ancient city of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire. This space, which today is surrounded by the grandeur of colonial-era architecture and governmental buildings, once housed the very center of the Aztec world. It’s a living testament to Mexico’s layered history.

As I stood in the square, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of what was beneath my feet. Tenochtitlan, which was founded in 1325, was one of the largest cities in the world at its height, sitting on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs engineered a sophisticated city with floating gardens (chinampas) and canals that rivaled those of Venice. The location of the Zócalo itself was the site of Templo Mayor, a grand temple dedicated to the gods Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc. Although the Spaniards destroyed much of it during their conquest in 1521, you can still see remnants of the temple through archaeological excavations, which are visible right off the square.

The energy of the Zócalo is palpable—whether it’s the musicians playing traditional tunes, the street vendors selling indigenous crafts, or the vibrant political protests that sometimes fill the space. It’s one of those places where the past and present seem to coexist so naturally. The knowledge that Tenochtitlan was a thriving metropolis, built with precision and spiritual significance, made me appreciate the enduring influence of Aztec culture on modern-day Mexico.

Walking through the nearby Museo del Templo Mayor and seeing artifacts, such as stone carvings, sculptures, and sacrificial altars, brought this history to life even more. I remember staring at a giant stone disc depicting Coyolxauhqui, the goddess dismembered by her brother Huitzilopochtli, in awe of how the Aztecs used art to tell their powerful myths.

Visiting the Zócalo and understanding that it sits on the bones of Tenochtitlan, I realized how much of history can remain hidden beneath the surface—both literally and figuratively. It was a profound experience that made me rethink how I view urban spaces, as every stone and structure seemed to have a story waiting to be uncovered. It’s a reminder that cities are built on the legacies of civilizations past, and the Zócalo is one of the best places to see those layers right in...

Beautiful spot downtown in Mexico City. Colonial buildings surrounding Plaza de la Constitución are beautiful and well maintained. Also the Cathedral is just amazing in size. It's bells sound fill out the whole Zòcalo. At Plaza de la constitución, they install itinerant exhibitions, and decorations. So for sightseeing and walks this is great place to visit. Also, there are several, museums, historical buildings, shops and restaurants (all categories and prices) at a walking distance.

The central part, just down there at Zócalo and some other streets are just for pedestrians. So one can have very nice walking time there (early in the morning perhaps the best time as it is not to crowded)

It is easy to get there by subway. Other public transportations and taxes are available. But subway would be the best idea... as parking are expensive and not that happy experience if you decide to go...

Beautiful area to explore and enjoy a long walk in. We spent some time looking at the little vendor stations that were set up around the square. We also got some cleansings from one of the groups of people that were dancing and cleansing. If you are visiting CDMX, for sure check this place out and if you can read up on...