National Palace (Mexico)

The Palacio Nacional ( National Palace) is the seat of the Government of Mexico. It lies at the Zocalo, the central square of Mexico City.

Colonial

The construction of the palace was started in 1563 as the residence of the Viceroy of New Spain. 1659 and 1692 partially destroyed by fire, the palace was later rebuilt in its present form.

19th century

After Mexico's independence, the palace was renamed Palacio Nacional and served as the seat of government. During the Second Mexican Empire, he was as Imperial Palace official residence, although Chapultepec Castle served as the actual residence of the imperial couple Maximilian and Charlotte. After restoration of the Republic in 1867, the palace was the seat of government again.

20th century to today

1926 was awarded the building a third floor. Between 1929 and 1951, Diego Rivera created inside on over 110 sqm his famous murals on the history of Mexico. Even today, the Palacio Nacional is the official seat of government and houses next to the Treasury museum facilities.