Discovering The Charm Of House Of Tiles In Mexico City

Exterior Detail The House of Tiles Mexico City Stock Photo Alamy from www.alamy.com

Mexico City is one of the biggest and most vibrant cities in the world. Its architecture, art, music, and food are all unique and mesmerizing. One of the most iconic places in Mexico City is the House of Tiles, also known as Casa de los Azulejos. This beautiful palace is located in the heart of the city and has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. In this article, we will explore the charm of the House of Tiles and why it is a must-visit destination when in Mexico City.

The History of House of Tiles

The House of Tiles was built in the 16th century by the Count of the Valley of Orizaba. It was originally a residential palace and was later converted into a restaurant. The tiles that cover the façade of the building were added in the 18th century, and they are the reason why the palace is so famous. The tiles were imported from Puebla, a city in Mexico known for its tile production. In the early 20th century, the House of Tiles was acquired by the Sanborns Brothers, a company that turned it into a café and department store. The interior of the palace was renovated and decorated with murals by José Clemente Orozco, one of the most important Mexican muralists of the 20th century. Today, the House of Tiles is still a Sanborns department store and café, and it is one of the most iconic places in Mexico City.

The Architectural Beauty of House of Tiles

The House of Tiles is a beautiful example of colonial architecture. The façade of the building is covered in blue and white tiles, arranged in an intricate pattern that resembles a mosaic. The tiles were imported from Puebla, a city in Mexico known for its tile production. The entrance to the building is an archway that leads to a courtyard decorated with a fountain and a small garden. The courtyard is surrounded by arcades with balconies that overlook the space. The interior of the building is just as beautiful, with murals by José Clemente Orozco that depict scenes from Mexican history. The House of Tiles is also a great example of how architecture can adapt to different purposes over time. The building was originally a residential palace, but it was later converted into a restaurant, a department store, and a café. Each of these adaptations required changes to the interior of the building, but the façade remained intact, preserving the beauty and history of the palace.

The Cultural Significance of House of Tiles

The House of Tiles is not just a beautiful building, it is also an important cultural landmark in Mexico City. The palace has a rich history that spans over 400 years, and it has witnessed some of the most important events in Mexican history. The murals by José Clemente Orozco that decorate the interior of the building depict scenes from Mexican history, including the conquest of Mexico, the Mexican Revolution, and the struggle for independence. The House of Tiles is also a symbol of Mexican identity and pride. The blue and white tiles that cover the façade of the building are a unique feature of Mexican architecture, and they have become a trademark of the House of Tiles. The palace has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and books, and it is considered one of the most iconic places in Mexico City.

Conclusion

The House of Tiles is a must-visit destination when in Mexico City. The palace is a beautiful example of colonial architecture, with a façade covered in blue and white tiles that resemble a mosaic. The interior of the building is just as beautiful, with murals by José Clemente Orozco that depict scenes from Mexican history. The House of Tiles is also an important cultural landmark that symbolizes Mexican identity and pride. Whether you are interested in architecture, history, or culture, the House of Tiles is a place that you cannot miss when in Mexico City.