Did Cortés ever imagine his mill would become a museum? The Museo de la Policía Federal stands before you, housed in the former Belén Mill. This building has a fascinating history, stretching back to the 16th century. Hernán Cortés himself ordered its construction. It served as the heart of a sprawling ranch. The Museo de la Policía Federal now occupies this historic site.
The Belén Mill remained in Cortés’s possession until the late 1500s. Remarkably detailed property records trace its ownership through the centuries. It continued operating as a mill under various owners. In 1781, a Jesuit group acquired the property. They used it to produce food for their missions in the Philippines. Later that same year, with the Jesuits’ expulsion from New Spain, the mill and the entire Ranch of Coscacoaco were seized.
The property returned to private hands. An 1828 survey describes the mill amidst pastures and farmland. In the late 19th century, a paper mill was established, powered by local waterfalls. This mill produced an impressive three tons of paper per day. By 1910, the entire property was sold to the Federal Government. The Museo de la Policía Federal carries on this legacy today.
Inside the Museo de la Policía Federal, you’ll discover the history of the Federal Police. Exhibits showcase their equipment, infrastructure, and laboratories. You’ll learn about the seven divisions of the force. The museum also honors the men and women who have fallen in the line of duty. The mounted police have a strong presence at the museum, adding a unique charm to the historical grounds.