Discover the Anahuacalli Museum: A Showcase of Pre-Hispanic Art

1. Summary of Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli

The Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum in Mexico City showcases a unique collection of pre-Hispanic art. Designed by the renowned artist Diego Rivera, the museum serves as a significant cultural and historical site bringing insight into Rivera’s artistic vision beyond his famous murals.

2. Design and Symbolism

The museum holds a rich collection of pre-Hispanic art, housing approximately 2,000 pieces out of over 50,000 amassed by Rivera. His vision for the museum was to protect ancient Mexican art from leaving the country, creating a space for people to appreciate it.

In collaboration with his friend Juan O’Gorman, Rivera designed the museum himself, featuring local volcanic rock and elements inspired by Mesoamerican architecture. Notably, the design reflects various symbolic meanings across its three levels:

• Ground Floor: Represents the underworld, dark and cool with depictions of the gods.
• Second Floor: Symbolizes the terrestrial plane with figures engaged in daily life.
• Third Floor: Corresponds to the heavens, offering stunning views from the terrace.

Furthermore, Rivera envisioned the museum as a community center, the “Ciudad de las Artes” (City of Arts), providing a vibrant space for various artistic expressions. The museum originally featured a studio where Rivera’s unfulfilled mural project, “Man at the Crossroads,” was planned.

3. Getting There

The Anahuacalli museum is situated in San Pablo Tepetlapa, within the Coyoacan borough, not far from notable landmarks. On weekends, a convenient bus service, the “FridaBus,” connects it to the Museo Frida Kahlo. Admission costs 130 pesos for adults and 65 pesos for children under 12, allowing access to both museums when you retain your ticket.

For more information on visiting hours and exhibitions, it’s beneficial to check the museum’s official website.