Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio

Amidst the urban sprawl of Mexico City, the Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio stands as a testament to a bygone era. The Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio whispers tales of a time when vast fields of alfalfa, barley, and vegetables stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a time when the rhythmic clanging of hooves and the lowing of cattle filled the air, a stark contrast to the city’s current hustle and bustle. The Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio, affectionately known as “La de en medio,” began its transformation in 1856. Don Raimundo De la Mora y Lastra, a visionary from the Spanish region of Cantabria, laid the foundation for the grand Casa Grande. His son, Rafael De la Mora y Trueba, later added his own touch, shaping the hacienda into the architectural marvel we see today. This very structure has graced the silver screen, serving as a backdrop for films like “Flor Silvestre” in 1943 and even more recently, Cuarón’s “Roma.” The Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio wasn’t just a residence; it was the heart of a vast agricultural enterprise. At its peak, under Rafael’s astute management, the hacienda encompassed a staggering 582 hectares, a testament to its productivity. The Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio played a vital role in supplying Mexico City with essential goods, its bounty flowing into the bustling Mercado de La Merced. The main house, the Casa Grande, showcases the classic hacienda layout. A central patio, bathed in sunlight, is surrounded by two-story buildings. The upper level served as the family’s living quarters, while the lower level housed administrative offices and a charming chapel. Look closely, and you’ll see the thick, 60- to 80-centimeter walls, constructed from local tepetate and cantera stone. The original wooden beams and cantera floors still whisper tales of generations past. As you explore the Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio, imagine the lively gatherings that once filled these spaces. Picture Don Raimundo surveying his vast estate from the newly added mirador, his gaze sweeping across the valley towards the Tepeyac Hill. Imagine the clatter of carriages arriving at the grand portico, bringing visitors and business associates from neighboring haciendas. The Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio has witnessed the ebb and flow of history. It survived the Mexican Revolution, though its lands were significantly reduced. It transitioned from a bustling agricultural hub to a serene event space. Today, the Ex-Hacienda San Pablo de Enmedio stands as a proud reminder of Tlalnepantla’s rich agricultural past, a tranquil oasis amidst the vibrant tapestry of Mexico City. It invites you to step back in time, to imagine the lives and legacies of those who called this remarkable place home.