Why does Tacubaya mean “where water is gathered”? The name comes from Nahuatl. Tacubaya is a working-class area of Mexico City. It sits in the borough of Miguel Hidalgo. The colonia Tacubaya and adjacent areas are collectively called Tacubaya.
Let’s explore its history. Tacubaya has been inhabited since the fifth century BC. The area was important to the Spaniards in the early colonial period. Viceroys spent time here because of its natural beauty. Tacubaya became divided between the rich and poor.
The Plan of Tacubaya set off the Reform War. In 1861, Benito Juárez named it Tacubaya de los Mártires. It honored those who lost their lives in the Battle of Tacubaya.
Tacubaya remained a rural suburb until the second half of the 19th century. Urbanization occurred gradually until about 1930. This was the result of population growth in both Tacubaya and Mexico City. Community property was dismantled in favor of private property. This attracted foreign investment and immigrant communities. The indigenous population was pushed to the periphery.
The main river is the Tacubaya River. Since the 1970s, it has been channelled into tunnels. Javier Solís and Finito López called Tacubaya home. Films like Los Olvidados were shot here.
Since its height, Tacubaya has degraded. Stately mansions sit among garbage and drug trafficking. Attempts have been made to clean up the area. Residents want the federal agency INAH to intervene. They want to protect buildings like the Justo Sierra House.
Tacubaya was designated a “Barrio Mágico” in 2011.
The Alameda Tacubaya Park is located on Avenida Revolución. In the center is an obelisk honoring the Mártires de Tacubaya. Today, the area is deteriorated. The park is inhabited by drug addicts.
The Templo y Ex Convento de Santo Domingo stands across from the Alameda. It is the only 16th-century Dominican convent remaining in Mexico City. The date 1590 is inscribed into the walls. The church is dedicated to Nuestra Señora de la Purificación.
The Casa de la Bola Museum is located on Parque Lira. It once belonged to Dr. Francisco Bazán Albornoz. Today, the museum is administrated by a cultural foundation.
Los Pinos, the official residence of the president of Mexico, is nearby. It was originally the Hormiga Ranch.
The National Meteorological Observatory is located on Avenida Observatorio. It was once offices of the archbishop. Today, it houses installations of the national weather service.
The Cartography Museum is located on Avenida Observatorio. It used to be the monastery of San Diego.
The Casa Amarilla originally was founded as a religious inn. Now it houses borough offices.
The Luis Barragán House and Studio is located on General Francisco Ramirez street. His designs feature vibrant colors and fluid space. It is a World Heritage Site. Visits are by appointment only. The house stands out due to its use of wood and stone.
The Ermita Building is an important example of Art Deco architecture. It was the first high rise in the Mexico City area.
La Ciudad Perdida is a shantytown. Shacks line the narrow streets. The area is filled with garbage. Drug use is common.
Parque Lira is a public park. It is entered by a monumental archway.
Tacubaya is served by the metro station Tacubaya and by metrobus. Avenida Jalisco is a major transportation hub.
Tacubaya’s story is one of contrasts. From its ancient roots to its colonial grandeur. From its decline to its modern struggles. It remains a vital part of Mexico City’s identity.