Did you ever imagine a textile tycoon’s estate becoming a haven for everyone? Right here in Parque Lira, that dream became a reality. Parque Lira, nestled in the Tacubaya neighborhood, was once part of a grand 18th-century estate owned by Vicente Lira. It later became a piece of a much larger property belonging to the wealthy Mariana Gomez de la Cortina, the second Countess of Cortina. Imagine lavish gardens, a palace, shimmering water features, and bronze fountains, all gracing this land. The iconic archway you see at the entrance, a neoclassical masterpiece, was designed by the Italian architect Francesco Saverio Cavallari, who left his mark on Mexico City in the mid-19th century. After the Countess’s death, the vast estate was divided. The Lira Mora family, prominent textile magnates, acquired this portion in the early 20th century. They continued to enhance the gardens, creating a private paradise. However, under President Lázaro Cárdenas, the estate was expropriated. For a time, it served as an asylum for children with mental illnesses. Later, the property transformed again, becoming the home of the Miguel Hidalgo borough offices, which remain here today, adjacent to Parque Lira. The park now offers a tranquil escape, a testament to its layered past, from aristocratic estate to public green space. Come, wander through Parque Lira. Reflect on the families who once called this place home, the children who sought solace here, and the community that now enjoys its beauty.
Embassy of Costa Rica
Amidst the vibrant streets of Mexico City stands a symbol of friendship. It is the Embassy of Costa Rica. This