Frida Kahlo Park

The Frida Kahlo Park is a free public park opened in 1984. At one time, it was but a vacant lot used for livestock auctions. It later hosted a textile factory. The idea to honor one of the giants of Mexican art came about only in the early 1980s, precisely as her international reputation was really reaching universal fame.

Today the park doesn’t permit bicycles or skateboards. As a result, it’s one of the more tranquil parks in the area. Though the surrounding Barrio de la Concepción can get lively on weekends, here, you’re more likely to find a contemplative sculpture garden. Heavily landscaped, it does include a children’s play area, and lots of walkways to wander.

The three sculptures, those of Frida Khalo and Diego Rivera, the seated figure of Frida, and the woman seated at the center of the fountain, are all by the Mexican sculptor, Gabriel Ponzanelli. He was sent by his sculptor father, as a child of eight years old, to live with the Kahlos for one month. Kahlo purchased one of his first drawings at the end of that visit. He’s best remembered today for creating the Coyotes Fountain in the Jardín Centenario.

Occasionally host to the Coyoacán Tamale Fair, the gated Frida Kahlo Park is normally the furthest thing from hectic. A tribute to the artist who mastered self-exploration, it’s a fitting place for introspection. Just a few blocks from the La Conchita Chapel, it’s a remarkable stop on any leisurely walk through the neighborhood.

Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.