After a pilgrimage of approximately 252 years from the mythical Aztlan / Chicomostoc, nomadic tribes settled on the western shore of Lake Texcoco, eventually founding the capital city Tenochtilan of what was to become the largest empire in Mesoamerica. The group called themselves Mexicas and the remains of their magnificent capital are part of today’s urban landscape as a result of a careful work of urban archeologist
To be arranged
Our tour starts at the "Zocalo" the heart of the Viceregal City, which houses the center of political and social life in modern Mexico, the National Palace, built on the remains of the Palace of Moctezuma, on its southeastern corner a monolithic sculpture of Coahatlicue , "Goddess of Snake Skirt" was found in 1790 . We will see the Palacio del Cabildo, The now covered main water channel (Acequiia Real ), former entrance to the now vanished Mercado del Parian . The Main Justice Palace. Just a few meters from Pino Suarez Street where the ancient Calzada de Iztapalapa the southern entrance to Tenochtitlan it was here that Cortez and Montezuma II first met in November 8th , 1519.
We will walk north to the archaeological site, the Ceremonial Center that encompasses the complex of the Templo Mayor. We will explain the history religion and social life of the Mexicas, while we travel back in time admiring the construction stages of the Templo Mayor, the Casa de las Águilas and some of the buildings that frame the Main Temple. With the assistance of the on-site Temple models I will explain the different periods of human ocupation of the are and the lordshiips that were established at the time of the Mexica (Aztecs) arrival.
We will visit the Museum to admire the findings around the excavations that accidentally began in February 21, 1978 with the discovery of Coyolxauqui (the one adorned with rattle bells ).We will see monolithic sculpture of Tlatecuhtli " the earth monster". We will understand the different religious aspects of their cosmological vision through different pieces of art like vases, copal burners and monolithic works.
We will exit the Museum and we will continue along Guatemala St. to the Mexico Spanish Cultural Center, there we will visit an archaeological window*. We will go down a stairway as we travel back in time into Mexico´s past , and visit the Calmecac were the pipiltin (noble family children ) will study arts, astronomy and science economy to become priests , and warriors. While the children of non noble families mazehualtin will assist school at the Telpochcallies
With construction starting in 1572 the Metropolitan Cathedral with its 59 mts. across x 128 mts in length towering 67 mts. in height on its twin main Bell towers is the most important religious building in Mexico . its interior houses extraordinary samples of baroque, and neoclassical altar pieces within its lateral chapels most gilded with 24 karat gold . The Altar of the Kings at the end of the main nave (abside ) was worked by by Jeronimo de Balbas on cedar wood and gilded in gold making it one of the best samples of Churrigeresco Style altar pieces, certain to catch your interest a perfect setting to end our experience through time as we exit into the crowded XXI century streets.
To be arranged
1. Guide fee.
2. Additional guests . $15.00 US per guest. up to 20 guests
3. Groups of 7+ guests are required to use audio reception system, provided by me.
1. Hotel Pick up (In / Out)
2. Transportation (I value your safety and mine so transportation will be provided by our own staff of private and trained drivers
on our own car fleet)
We have a a complete car fleet as follows : CAR ( 3 PAX) , VAN (4 -7 PAX) , SUV,(4-7 PAX) MIN BUS (12-20 PAX) BUS (32-46 PAX)
3. Entrance fee ( aprox $4.00 US )
4. Lunch / Beverages
5. Audio System if needed (Groups of 7+) at a rental value of $6.00 US VAT included per person
(This is not optional as I am respectful of other guides and visitors, this will enrich your experience without disturbing others )
6. Camara permits
I continue to lecture and teach art History, and History twice a week , but pretty much free to engage the rest of the time .
(Duration: 3-4 hrs.)
(Distance: 2.3 km / 1.4 miles )
1. Bring comfortable shoes
2. Sun block lotion
3. Water
4. Costs does not include entrance fee. .
Note. This is a suggested tour however we can arrange for a more especific area of interest or your suggestions
More than 20 years of experience as a teacher and lecturer of both Art History and World History along with an extensive knowledge of my city and country have allowed me to organize small and large , groups of guests to help them discover cities, museums and archaeological sites both in Mexico and abroad.
I welcome and enjoy all levels of knowledge and curiosity as there is always things to be learned and shared including different points of view. I am a firm believer on perpetual growth. So let’s make the life a perpetual experience one we can share with a big smile and when we have to say good bye, you will know you have a new friend in this part of the world.
Yes!!!! as a matter of fact that is what I enjoy the most, and I will be more than happy to assist you in doing so. From airline tickets to a private airplane or executive helicopter transportation. Boutique Hotels, fine dining , guided museum collections. Let me know I will be glad to assist you.
Yes! We have private drivers and modern car - van - SUV and bus fleet
We were fortunate enough to have Roberto Gonzalez as our Guide for Mexico City and surrounding areas. Roberto spoke English very well, he had an excellent command of the language. His knowledge about Mexican History, culture and art were remarkable. He brought the timeline of Mexican history to life for us. He was always very prompt and pleasant to be with. He had a good sense of humor that we appreciated. He enhanced our time in Mexico unmeasurably. We truly appreciated having him for our guide. By the end of our time together we felt like we had made a great friend in Roberto, he is truly a kind and caring man. We highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for an exceptional guide. Most Sincerely Hayworth and Kristi Louie
Excellent private tour! Roberto was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly with a great sense of humor, and he gave me a fantastic day in the museum. I learnt about history, art, culture, and much more. I am well-traveled and have high standards, and I was delighted with Roberto - he was great and spoke excellent English. One of the best of my day in Mexico City!
Dear Mrs. Tyschchenko , thank you for your kind words, both me and Go with Guide look forward to have you back and continue to discover our country. Hope you had a safe flight back and see you soon.
We had a delightful tour with Roberto! His interest and knowledge of the history of Mexico is very refreshing. He has a good sense of humor, was flexible with our arrangements and very client oriented. We will tour with him again on a return trip!
Dear Sheryl and Hunter: Thanks for the opportunity to work with you in your recent visit to Mexico it will Gowithguide and my pleassure to have you over again. Glad you had a save return . And remeber that Mi Casa es tu casa