National Museum of Anthropology Tours and Activities

The Museo Nacional de Antropología is a globally renowned museum. A rich view into indigenous life is exhibited here, from pre-Columbian times through to present-day native Mexican cultures. Intriguing relics from ancient Mayan, Aztec and other peoples are at the forefront of the exhibitions here, along with more contemporary pieces. A full exploration of the wonders on show will take you a few hours, as there are over 20 rooms to be seen.The Maya room on the ground floor contains detailed gravestones from this amazingly advanced culture, along with a reconstructed temple with intricate murals on its walls. There are a total of over 8,000 artefacts on this floor from the many local civilisations including the Aztecs, the Mayans and the Olmec.Piedra del Sol, or “The Stone of the Sun”, is probably the most celebrated piece held in the museum. This is a fantastically designed religious artefact from the 15th century, with a series of complicated geometric symbols adorning it. The stone is also enormous, at almost four metres in diameter and 21 tonnes in weight. Furthermore, keep a special lookout for the large Olmec stone heads, the Aztec goddesses and the scale model of Tenochtitlan (the precursor to modern-day Mexico City).The ways of life of indigenous peoples in the 21st century are explored on the upper level. These cultures have descended from Mayan and Aztec forefathers, and keep to a large range of their own customs and beliefs. Clothing, which is often colourful and decorative, forms a significant part of the collection, as well as items of religious significance, art, and tools used in day-to-day life.The Museo Nacional de Antropología is found on Paseo de la Reforma in Chapultepec Park, adjacent to the historical centre of Mexico City. It is easily accessible by underground and bus.Open Tuesday to Sunday, there is a fee for entry to the museum. It is recommended that you get an audio guide from the ticket office, as a number of the exhibits don't have English information attached.