Santa Maria la Rivera floating bookstore, murals and pulque

Start your adventure at the spectacular Vasconcelos Library, and admire Gabriel Orozco’s “Mobile Matrix”. Afterwards, he performs "urban archaeology" of the neighborhood to discover the 1957 mural of José Gordillo, a hidden masterpiece that has survived earthquakes and the passage of time. Continue to the vibrant colors of Gilberto Aceves Navarro's "War and Peace" mural, which shows the transition to the modern art era in Mexico. But the true essence of Porfiriato awaits you at Niña Oscura, a "secret" bookstore located in an early 20th century house, where you will find old books difficult to obtain. Finally, visit the legendary Moorish Kiosk, a cast iron jewel in the heart of the Alameda, before closing the day at La Joya de Santa María. In this traditional pulqueria, toast authentic "cured" (fermented agave sap or a beer if you prefer), and immerse yourself in the neighborhood atmosphere!

1. 1

   Biblioteca Vasconcelos

   30 min

   Admire the impressive architecture of the Mobile Library, as well as the skeleton of a gray whale hanging on the first floor, the "Mobile Matrix", by Gabriel Orozco. Get lost among the shelves and locate jewelry of your favorite genre with the help of your guide.

2. 2

   Santa Maria la Ribera

   20 min

   Visit Gilberto Acevez Navarro’s murals “La guerra y la paz” (1996) on Avenida Alzate and José Gordillo’s murals in the “Casa del Maestro” (1957), works of art lost in the urban jungle and official abandonment.

3. 3

   Kiosco Morisco

   20 min

   Admire a masterpiece of Mexican architecture, characterized by its intricate design and intense red color, which make it the symbol of the neighborhood.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   30 min

   Enter a small pulqueria, a bar where this traditional pre-Hispanic drink is sold. It is a place with more than 100 years of history, serving clients since before the Mexican Revolution.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.