Springtime in Mexico City

Does anyone know the name of these beautiful, purple flowering trees? One sees them throughout the city this time of year. Walking around the Condesa neighborhood, this extraordinary plaza is just one of the attractions that grabbed my attention. While in DF, don't just visit the major tourist attractions. Be sure to take the time to simply walk around neighborhoods in order to glimpse life as Chilangos experience it. Better yet, rent an Ecobici and cruise around in style. On Sundays, many streets are closed to traffic giving bikes the full right of way.

 

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Ok, Recognize This Place?

Architecturally, this is one of the coolest places in Mexico City. It was designed by architect and painter Juan O'Gorman for "famous" friends of his in the 1930s. If you saw a recent film staring Selma Hayek, this is where a number of scenes were filmed. Alright, I've probably already given it away. If you guessed that the famous friends were Diego and Frida, you're correct. This is the outside of the Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera Y Frida Kahlo. Each had a separate house and studio here at the residence in San Angel. After their divorce, Frida then moved to the Casa Azul in Coyoacan. Inside, one can view Diego's studio just as it was when he worked in it.

 

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Small Treasures Around Every Corner

On my visit to he San Angel neighborhood, I took a few minutes to stroll through the Casa del Risco just on the north side of Plaza San Jacinto. Throughout this wonderful colonial building now free museum, delightful objects and art appeared where least expected. This arrangement of flowers and the Virgin was just one of the treats the Casa had to offer. In a future posting, I'll share with you a photo of the amazing two-store fountain also found inside.

 

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The Most Intriguing Diego

One of the very best reasons to venture into Chapultepec Park is to see the most unique and intriguing of Rivera's creations in Mexico City. The Fuente de Tláloc presents one a 3-D tiled fountain sculpture capturing the essence of the Native Mexican spirit.

The image one sees depends on which side of the fountain one views this masterpiece that Rivera started in 1952.

Inside the municipal water system building, Rivera muraled the Carcamo, the water tank designed for diverting water to the fountain.

As the murals quickly deteriorated due to the water, only recently has their restoration been completed and reopened to the public for viewing.

One may not be able to find a more peaceful spot in the city than this section of the park.

 

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The Ladies of the Alameda

On this trip back to DF,I was overjoyed to see that Alameda Central had been reopened. After being closed for well over a year for repaving, the park once again became one of the city's favorite spots for strollers, families, and lovers. Alameda reminds us all of just how important green spaces are to city dwellers. For well over 150 years, the park has served as a meeting and gathering place for nearby residents and travelers. Although the paths definitely needed serious repair, it's temporary closure was a loss for those looking for a bit of respite in the heart of the city.

The Classic bronze sculptures that adorn the Alameda, bring both a sense of tranquility and grace to the park. Their watchful eyes make sure all is well. Early spring only enhanced the park's beauty dormant during the colder winter months.

 

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