Discover the History & Evolution of Mexican Muralism

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3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

This tour begins at the Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso, a pivotal site in the development of Mexican muralism. Here, you’ll see some of the earliest and most important murals by Diego Rivera and José Clemente Orozco—including Rivera’s first mural.

Next, we’ll visit the Secretariat of Public Education (SEP), home to hundreds of murals created as part of a national effort to use art as a tool for education and social change. These works reflect the ideals of the post-revolutionary era.

The final stop is the Abelardo L. Rodríguez Market, where students of Rivera and international artists painted over 1,400 square meters of powerful, socially themed murals.

By the end of the tour, you’ll have a deeper understanding of one of the most influential art movements of the 20th century and its lasting impact on Mexican identity and visual culture.

Optional: Add a visit to the Palacio de Bellas Artes (400 MXP per person). Please let us know in advance to confirm the adjustment.

What's Included

Private tour
Professional bilingual tour guide
Admission tickets
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

We will meet at the entrance​ of Colegio de San Ildefonso.

End point

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Ildefonso College, a former Baroque Jesuit institution, is considered the birthplace of the muralist movement in Mexico. Here, we'll encounter the country's most significant artworks, including notable murals by José Clemente Orozco and, of course, Diego Rivera’s very first mural.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 2

    We'll visit the Museo Vivo del Muralismo, a hidden gem in Mexico City dedicated to preserving and showcasing the legacy of Mexican muralism. Housed in a historic building, this unique space features vibrant works by both renowned and emerging artists. The museum highlights the social and political messages behind the art, connecting past and present through powerful visual storytelling. It’s an inspiring stop that deepens your appreciation for the movement’s enduring impact on Mexican culture.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 3

    At the end of the tour, we’ll visit the Mercado Abelardo L. Rodríguez, a market that houses one of the city’s most unexpected mural treasures. Painted in the 1930s by students of Diego Rivera and international artists, the murals span over 1,400 square meters and depict powerful themes of social justice, labor, and revolution. This unique setting, where vibrant art meets everyday life, offers a compelling final stop—highlighting how muralism brought bold political messages into public spaces and daily routines, leaving a lasting mark on Mexico’s cultural identity.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by City Art Tours

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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