Alameda Central is a very old park that takes its name from the alamos or poplar trees that were planted here to provide a green recreation space for Mexico City residents. Walk along the paths, now lined with ash and willows, to appreciate this calm haven in the heart of the city.
Journey back to the 1500s, when Viceroy Luis de Velasco had the foresight to create a place for recreation and quiet reflection under shade trees. Despite this plan, over the centuries, the park had several alternate uses before returning to its original purpose. After Velasco’s leadership, the large green space became a grazing area for neighborhood horses. Walls were erected to enclose the park. During the time of the Inquisition, enemies of the regime were condemned to death in the park’s San Diego Plaza.
In the 1700s, Philip V ordered construction of several fountains and other changes inspired by the gardens of Versailles. Viceroy Carlos Francisco de la Croix extended the park from a square to a larger rectangle. Take a romantic stroll through the Alameda Central today with your loved one as the amorous youth of the time did accompanied by supervising parents.
Carlota Amalia brought a Belgian influence when she became empress of Mexico. See the rose gardens she created and the Mathurin Moreau sculpted fountain, Venus Led by Zephyrs, which she donated. Soon after this time, the walls were removed and lights were added to reduce the potential for crime in the park.
Once the Alameda Central again became a popular spot for city residents to visit, Porfirio Díaz constructed the Palace of Fine Arts and the Hemicycle to Juárez within the park’s limits. He brought back Sunday music recitals that had been established by Viceroy Bucareli. Time your visit to the Alameda to enjoy this ongoing custom.
Within Mexico City, the Alameda Central is one of the best spots to relax and enjoy meeting local residents from across all parts of society. Use the metro to reach the park in the city’s historical center via the Hidalgo, Juarez or Bellas Artes stops.
