Citibanamex Palace of Culture

Citibanamex Palace of Culture (Palacio de Cultura Citibanamex) is w. of the Zócalo at Av. Madero #17 near Av. Bolívar (M: Bellas Artes, lines 2 and 8). Commissioned by the Count of San Mateo de Valparaíso as a dowry for his daughter, the former Iturbide Palace is a fine example of the 18th-century baroque architectural style. It became a hotel in 1850, was purchased by the National Bank of Mexico (Banco de Mexico) in 1966 and today houses a bank-underwritten museum promoting Mexican culture. Exhibits are on two floors surrounding a colonnaded courtyard.

The longer-term exhibits on the second floor include framed art, sculpture, photographs, audiovisual presentations and interactive displays. The main floor features rotating exhibits often focusing on traditional popular art.

Guided tours in Spanish are given daily at noon, 2 and 4. Guided tours in English are available by advance reservation; phone a few days prior to visiting the museum. Children are not permitted on guided tours.