Zócalo

Zócalo, commonly known as the Plaza de la Constitución, is the main public square in Mexico City's historic center. It is one of the largest city squares in the world and has long served as a focal point for political, social, and cultural life in the capital.

Historically, the site was the ceremonial center of Tenochtitlan, the heart of the Aztec metropolis. After the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, the square was redesigned as a central open space surrounded by important colonial buildings. The National Palace (Palacio Nacional) overlooks the plaza, as does the Metropolitan Cathedral. The nearby ruins of the Templo Mayor mark a reminder of the pre-Hispanic past. The square’s official name is Plaza de la Constitución, but the popular name Zócalo refers to the base or pedestal (zócalo) of a monument; over time the term came to denote the square itself.

The Zócalo remains a key civic stage, hosting official ceremonies, political demonstrations, concerts, and cultural events. It is a central venue for national celebrations, including Independence Day activities on September 16, and other public performances and commemorations. The square is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Mexico City, a reflection of its historical and cultural significance.

Surrounding the square are a mix of colonial and neoclassical buildings, including museums and government offices, with pedestrian-facing streets such as 20 de Noviembre and 5 de Mayo nearby. The area frequently operates as a pedestrian zone for events and public gatherings, reinforcing its role as a symbol of the city and nation.