Mexico City (day 1)

We were in Mexico three days, so I've split this one post into threes. Not even equal threes, just the three I liked the most (aka easiest).

First, a really long bus ride, but then MEXICO CITY (with highways that don't have painted lanes- scary).

We got a tour of the downtown area, which included Templo Mayor:


Templo Mayor is exactly like one might assume; that is to say, the ancient primary temple of the Aztecs. Now, of course, it is in ruins but still has some pretty cool sights:




Of course, everything is kinda gray and dreary. Back in the day, it was very colorful, with paint and flowers and gold decor and the blood from the human sacrifice.

Next, we went to Palacio Nacional, which is also as one might assume. It was the president's house for the longest time and has the most ridiculous amount of security imaginable.

Here's a picture of the front-ish part. The bell there at the top is the Mexican equivalent of the American Liberty Bell. Their independence bell has the advantage of not being cracked. :P


The inside is really quite large, several stories, with soldiers hanging out everywhere, gardens, fountains, beautiful staircases, statues in honor of Benito Juarez, the whole nine yards. However, the most interesting part, for me, was Diego Rivera's murals, which were, somewhat unfortunately, being renovated.


We left fairly quickly for the Cathedral, as the building was closing and soldiers were marching in formation around the fountain in the center of the main patio area. The Cathedral, like most of Mexico City, is sinking because Mexico City was built on a lake. (I know, it was great civil engineering. It was actually kinda fun to notice all the lopsided, tilting, leaning-tower-ish buildings.)





Then it was free time! (which means dinner and sleep!)

:)

All these photos and more!