Plaza de la Constitución

Known universally as the Zócalo, this massive public square — roughly 46,800 square meters — sits at the center of what was once Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital. It's one of the largest urban plazas in the world and has been the symbolic and ceremonial heart of the city since the 1300s, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Throughout the year the square hosts concerts, festivals, political gatherings, desfiles, and large-scale public events — from Independence Day celebrations to massive Day of the Dead altars. The surrounding buildings include the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and remnants of the Templo Mayor archaeological zone.

The square is always open and free to visit. Go early in the morning to see the flag ceremony or late afternoon when the light softens and street vendors set up around the perimeter.