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The Antiguo Palacio del Ayuntamiento is the main seat of the Mexico City government. It’s home to a small museum and several galleries which are open to the public. The Cabildos Hall and the Francisco Gamoneda Documentation Center are also inside the building. The first City Council meeting was there on May 10, 1524.
The building was begun under the orders of Hernán Cortés in 1522. An early version opened between 1527 and 1532. Pedro de Arrieta and José Miguel Álvarez are the two architects credited with that structure.
The earliest building undoubtedly used stones from the earlier Mexica temples. Built like a fortress, it served a function in protecting inhabitants from those forbidden to settle in the area. Only the foundations and a few walls of the original City Hall building remain.
In 1714, the City Hall was rebuilt in the Peninsular Baroque style, with arches and ornaments. That remodeling left it with much of its present appearance.
For the Centenary of the Independence in 1910, a further restoration added another floor and totally reconstructed the building. A fourth floor was added only in 1934. This coincided with planning for the twin Government of Mexico City Building next door. Construction began in 1941, and both buildings reopened in 1948. The Supreme Court building, on the southeast corner of the Zócalo, was built between 1935 and 1941.
But the Palacio del Ayuntamiento remains a particular focus of pride for the City. It’s also the sight of frequent press conferences and official events which will occasionally limit public access.
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Chapultepec Castle is one of the premier sites in the city, and one of the highest you can visit, too!
The Old Basilica de Guadalupe is, for some visitors, even more interesting than the new one!
One of the city center's most illustrious former convents is still a sight to see.
The old customs building today shows off some the SEP's extensive art collection.
One of Pedro de Arrieta's most lasting contributions to the look and feel of the City.