Museo Nacional de Antropología

The National Museum of Anthropology, located in Chapultepec Park, is housed in a spectacular modern building containing collections of archaeological objects from all the pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico. There is a large inner courtyard almost totally shaded by a long concrete canopy which protects against the hot sun. The courtyard is embraced by the two-story museum, which displays chronologically and geographically the history of Mexico. These collections provide an excellent introduction to the archaeology of Mexico in an environment that is most pleasing. When the museum opened in 1964, it was considered a masterpiece, displaying a whole new concept of how to make archaeology come alive. Instead of becoming outdated, the museum is more remarkable than ever following extensive renovations in 2001. You move from room to room in an organized way to follow the exhibits in a chronological order and you see many special effects and video displays that explain what you are seeing. Not to be missed are a few highlights such as an incredible funerary mask of jade, which is one of the museum’s treasures. In the Aztec exhibit, you cannot miss the Sun Stone with its intricate design showing the sun god in the center surrounded by the Aztec calendar. The mother-of-pearl Toltec Coyote Headed Warrior is another gem. These are but appetizers of the many fabulous pieces you will see—plan to spend many hours here. (There is a very good restaurant on the premises for lunch).