Casa Rivas Mercado Reopens as Museum in Mexico City After Heritage Restoration

The Casa Rivas Mercado, a distinctive eclectic mansion built in 1984 by architect Antonio Rivas Mercado, has been revitalized and is now open to the public in Mexico City's popular Guerrero neighborhood. The building, known for its blend of European architectural elements, was once the residence and creative hub for artists and writers, and notably, the site where Rivas Mercado envisioned the Monument to Independence.

Following a period of abandonment, the property underwent significant heritage restoration by authorities and various foundations. Today, it operates as a museum, inviting visitors to explore its neoclassical spaces inspired by Pompeii, featuring carved stone and ornamental ironwork. The tour offers a glimpse into the lives of Antonio Rivas Mercado and his daughter, Antonieta Rivas Mercado, a prominent figure in 20th-century Mexican art and culture.

Beyond traditional guided tours, the Casa Rivas Mercado hosts a variety of artistic and cultural events. These include dramatized performances that bring Antonieta Rivas Mercado's story to life, concerts in collaboration with Bellas Artes, performing arts workshops, book presentations, conferences, and film screenings focused on the house's history and legacy. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum's social media for event schedules.

Admission prices vary: general public tickets are $160 pesos, with reduced rates for students, teachers, INAPAM cardholders, and local residents. Children under 12 and individuals with disabilities enter for free. Visits can be booked online, with guided tours available on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 and 12:00, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. The museum is accessible via public transport, including Metro Line 2 and 3 (Hidalgo station) and Metrobús Line 3 (Mina station), though on-site parking is not available.