Constitution Plaza

You’ve probably guessed it: we’re in the heart of Mexico as we stand on this monumental square, the Zócalo, also known as the Constitution Plaza. It’s one of the largest squares in the world, surrounded by some of Mexico City’s most important landmarks: the Metropolitan Cathedral on your left, the National Palace in front of you, as well as the Supreme Court and the old City Hall. In short, all the buildings that gave the Constitution Plaza its name. With all these monuments, it’s no surprise that Zócalo is a UNESCO Site. Its nickname, meaning “pedestal”, originates from a plan where a huge statue was to be built in the middle of the square, a tribute to Mexican independence. However, only the pedestal was completed due to a lack of funding and today, you’ll find a towering Mexican flag instead of a statue. Over time, the square became a popular gathering spot, and locals affectionately began to call it the “Zócalo”—a name that has stuck ever since. Built by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, the Constitution Plaza has always been the city’s social, political, and economic heart—even when Aztecs lived here, this was their main square. Furthermore, archaeological remains from the Aztec civilization were even found here below ground. Over the centuries, this square went by many names, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Main Square, and Palace Square, before officially becoming Constitution Plaza in 1813 once the Spanish Constitution was adopted. One of the liveliest spots in the city, the Zócalo regularly hosts exhibitions, protests, and celebrations that draw both locals and visitors alike. A historical square displaying some of the city’s most beautiful monuments, making it a must-see during your visit in Mexico City. If this place sounds familiar, you may have spotted it in the famous James Bond movie “Spectre”, where the hero climbs aboard a helicopter in the middle of a festival taking place right here!