Palace of Cortés, Cuernavaca
Facts and practical information
The Palace of Cortés in Cuernavaca, Mexico, built between 1523–1528, is the oldest conserved colonial-era civil structure in the continental Americas. The architecture is a blend between Gothic and Mudéjar, typical of the early 16th century colonial architecture. The building began as a fortified residence for conqueror Hernán Cortés and his aristocratic second wife, Doña Juana Zúñiga. It was built in 1526, over a Tlahuica Aztec tribute collection center, which was destroyed by the Spanish during the Conquest. Cortés replaced it with a personal residence to assert authority over the newly conquered peoples. As Cortés's residence, it reached its height in the 1530s, but the family eventually abandoned it due to on-going legal troubles. In the 18th century, colonial authorities had the structure renovated and used it as a barracks and jail. During the Mexican War of Independence, it held prisoners such as José María Morelos y Pavón. After the war, it became the seat of government for the state of Morelos until the late 20th century, when the state government moved out and the structure was renovated and converted into the current Museo Regional Cuauhnahuac, or regional museum, with exhibits on the history of Morelos. ()
Palace of Cortés – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Cuernavaca Cathedral, Teopanzolco, Jardín Borda, Museo Robert Brady.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Palace of Cortés open?
- Monday closed
- Tuesday 9 am - 5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am - 5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am - 5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am - 5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am - 5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am - 5:30 pm
Which popular attractions are close to Palace of Cortés?
How to get to Palace of Cortés by public transport?
Bus
- Pullman de Morelos, terminal centro de Cuernavaca (7 min walk)
- Estrella Roja (11 min walk)