“A magnificent facade to gaze upon” That’s how many describe the Casa del Conde de Regla. Its grandeur is undeniable. Right here in Mexico City’s heart stands this impressive building. It whispers tales of a bygone era.
The Casa del Conde de Regla is more than just a beautiful building. It’s a testament to Mexico’s rich history. It began as a convent school. Then Pedro Romero de Terreros a wealthy philanthropist transformed it. He added grand sitting rooms children’s rooms libraries and exquisite gardens. Most of what we see today dates back to his 1768 remodeling. He had purchased the property much earlier in 1746.
Romero de Terreros was not just any man. He was the first Count of Regla. He founded the Monte de Piedad a pawnshop. A mining magnate he owned a large ranch near what is now Metro El Rosario. His wealth was immense. He was one of the most powerful men of the late 18th century. He envisioned a Baroque palace fit for his status. He spared no expense. Each room was meticulously decorated. It was known as the “House of Silver”. Legend says its walls glittered with his silver mining fortune.
Time marched on. In 1928 the building was converted into apartments. Businesses occupied the ground floor. An engineer Francisco Cortina García preserved the first floor. He added another above. Unfortunately much of the original interior was destroyed. A three-story building now stands within the old palace’s shell. The street level windows were converted into doors for the commercial spaces.
Today you see a blend of old and new. The Casa del Conde de Regla stands as a reminder of Mexico City’s vibrant past. Its facade is breathtaking. It sparks the imagination. It’s a place where history and modernity intertwine. A young Simón Bolívar even stayed here in 1799. Imagine his presence within these very walls. The Casa del Conde de Regla a timeless monument. It is a symbol of Mexico City’s enduring spirit.