Name: The House of Tiles
Address: Av Francisco I. Madero 4, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06500 Cuauhtémoc, CDMX, Mexico
Rating: 4.5

This 18th-century palace with a blue-&-white tile facade is now home to a popular restaurant.

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The House of Tiles, or Casa de los Azulejos, dates back to the 16th century, showcasing a rich history of Mexico City's colonial era.

Historical Roots

The building's iconic façade is adorned with thousands of blue and white tiles, creating a stunning mosaic pattern that gives the House of Tiles its name.

Tile Tapestry

Behind the House of Tiles, a hidden ceramic mural awaits discovery. This contemporary piece adds a modern touch to the historic building, showcasing Mexican artistic innovation.

Hidden Gem

Dining within the walls of the House of Tiles offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant history of Mexico City.

Echoes of the Past

The House of Tiles

The House of Tiles, or "Casa de los Azulejos" in Spanish, is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Mexico City's Cuauhtémoc borough. Built in the late 16th century, this Baroque palace was originally the residence of the Counts of the Valley of Orizaba. Its distinctive facade, adorned with thousands of blue and white Talavera tiles, was added in 1737, giving the building its iconic name.

Over the centuries, the House of Tiles has served various purposes, including a gentlemen's club and a workers' organization. In 1917, it was acquired by the Sanborns restaurant chain, which has meticulously preserved its historical charm while adding modern amenities.

Today, visitors can marvel at the building's intricate tilework, admire the Orozco mural "Omnisciencia" that graces its interior, and savor traditional Mexican cuisine in the elegant dining room. The House of Tiles stands as a testament to Mexico's rich cultural heritage, blending colonial architecture with vibrant artistic expression.

Introduction

The House of Tiles, a captivating architectural marvel in Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, Mexico, is renowned for its intricate and opulent facade adorned with vibrant blue, white, and yellow tiles. This stunning edifice, constructed in the 18th century, seamlessly blends Baroque and Neoclassical architectural elements, showcasing the artistic prowess of its time. The intricate tilework, meticulously arranged in geometric patterns, depicts scenes from Mexican history and mythology, offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.

Beyond its captivating exterior, the House of Tiles boasts an equally impressive interior. The grand atrium, bathed in natural light from a glass-ceiling, features soaring stone pillars, ornate murals, and a central fountain, creating an atmosphere of grandeur and elegance. The building's opulent dining room, adorned with intricate chandeliers and vibrant peacock-themed decor, provides a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of its former aristocratic occupants.

The House of Tiles has witnessed a remarkable transformation throughout its history, serving as a residence for noble families, a workers' organization, and now a popular restaurant. Despite these changes, the building's architectural integrity has been meticulously preserved, ensuring that its timeless beauty continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Architectural Marvel

The House of Tiles, or "Casa de los Azulejos" in Spanish, is a historical landmark in Mexico City, Mexico, renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance. Built in the 16th century, it was originally the palace of the Counts del Valle de Orizaba, a prominent family during the colonial period. Its iconic blue and white tile facade, added in the 18th century, is a testament to the fusion of Mexican and European influences. The tiles, imported from Puebla, were a symbol of wealth and status, and their intricate patterns depict scenes from Mexican history and mythology.

The House of Tiles has witnessed significant historical events throughout the centuries. It served as a meeting place for artists, intellectuals, and political figures during the colonial era. After Mexico gained independence, it became a venue for elite gentlemen's clubs and social gatherings. Today, it houses a Sanborns restaurant, where visitors can dine amidst the historical grandeur.

Beyond its architectural and aesthetic value, the House of Tiles holds cultural and historical significance. It represents the fusion of Mexican and European traditions, showcasing the influence of Spanish colonial architecture and the incorporation of indigenous motifs. The building's transformation over time reflects the evolution of Mexico City itself, from its colonial roots to its modern metropolis status.

Historical Significance

The House of Tiles, or Casa de los Azulejos, is a cultural icon in Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, Mexico. It is renowned for its exquisite façade adorned with thousands of blue and white Talavera tiles, a testament to Mexican craftsmanship and artistry. The tiles, imported from Puebla, depict intricate patterns and scenes, each one narrating a chapter in Mexico's rich history.

Beyond its captivating exterior, the House of Tiles holds cultural significance as a symbol of Mexico's colonial heritage and the fusion of European and indigenous influences. Originally built in the 16th century as the palace of the Counts del Valle de Orizaba, it has witnessed pivotal moments in Mexico's history. Its grand halls have hosted elite gatherings, political debates, and artistic performances, leaving an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape.

Today, the House of Tiles is a vibrant cultural hub, housing a renowned restaurant and store. Visitors can immerse themselves in the building's opulent ambiance while savoring traditional Mexican cuisine amidst the historic grandeur. The interior boasts stunning murals by renowned artist José Clemente Orozco, depicting scenes from Mexican society and adding another layer to the building's cultural significance.

The House of Tiles is not merely a building but a living testament to Mexico's cultural heritage. Its unique blend of architectural beauty, historical significance, and artistic expression has made it an enduring symbol of the city's rich and vibrant culture.

Cultural Icon

The House of Tiles, an architectural masterpiece in Mexico City's historic center, boasts a rich artistic legacy. Its Baroque facade, adorned with intricate Talavera tiles from Puebla, is a testament to the region's vibrant ceramic tradition. The building's interior holds a hidden gem: a mural by renowned Mexican painter José Clemente Orozco. Created in 1925, the mural depicts the tumultuous events of the Mexican Revolution, adding a layer of historical significance to the building's artistic value. The House of Tiles has witnessed the evolution of Mexican art, from its colonial roots to its modern expressions, making it a living testament to the country's artistic heritage.

Artistic Legacy

The House of Tiles, or Casa de los Azulejos, is a captivating architectural gem nestled in the heart of Mexico City's historic center. Its iconic blue and white facade, adorned with intricate Talavera tiles, has become synonymous with the city's cultural heritage. The tiles, originating from the renowned pottery town of Puebla, were meticulously arranged to create a mesmerizing mosaic that covers three sides of the building. Each tile is a testament to the skill and artistry of Mexican craftsmen, showcasing vibrant hues and intricate patterns that have captivated visitors for centuries. The facade's striking contrast against the surrounding cityscape makes it an unmissable landmark, attracting countless photographers and art enthusiasts alike.

Blue and White Facade

Within the historic House of Tiles, a captivating mural titled "Omnisciencia" graces the stairwell, a testament to the artistic brilliance of José Clemente Orozco. Created in 1925, the mural depicts a profound allegory of Mexican society, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human existence. Orozco's masterful brushstrokes capture the essence of omniscience, as celestial beings gaze down upon a diverse tapestry of humanity below. The mural's symbolism is rich and multifaceted, revealing the artist's deep understanding of the human condition. Through "Omnisciencia," Orozco invites us to reflect on the interconnectedness of all beings and the profound influence of the divine on our mortal realm.

Omnisciencia

The House of Tiles, a captivating architectural gem in Mexico City, is renowned for its exquisite facade adorned with thousands of Talavera tiles. These tiles, handcrafted in the city of Puebla, are a testament to the artistry and cultural heritage of Mexico. The vibrant blue and white patterns depict intricate scenes and motifs, creating a mesmerizing visual tapestry.

The tiles were commissioned by the Countess of Orizaba in the 18th century, who sought to protect the palace's exterior from moisture damage. However, the tiles also served as a symbol of the family's wealth and status. Each tile is a unique work of art, painted and glazed by skilled artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

The House of Tiles has witnessed centuries of Mexican history, from its opulent beginnings as a palace to its transformation into a restaurant and cultural center. Today, visitors can admire the intricate tilework while dining in the elegant courtyard or exploring the building's interior, which features a stunning mural by renowned artist José Clemente Orozco.

Beyond its aesthetic beauty, the Talavera tiles of the House of Tiles hold cultural significance. They represent the fusion of European and indigenous influences that shaped Mexican art and architecture. The tiles are a testament to the enduring legacy of Talavera pottery, which continues to be celebrated and admired worldwide.

Talavera Tiles

The House of Tiles, an architectural gem in Mexico City's historic center, boasts a captivating Diego Rivera mural, "Omnisciencia" (Omniscience), that adorns its opulent interior. Rivera's masterpiece depicts a profound allegory of human existence, with a celestial sphere symbolizing the cosmos and a serpent representing the duality of knowledge and temptation. The mural's vibrant colors and intricate details invite viewers to contemplate the eternal struggle between light and darkness, good and evil.

Rivera's genius is evident in the mural's central figure, a woman embodying both wisdom and grace. She presides over a scene teeming with symbolism, including a serpent coiled around a tree of knowledge, a dove representing peace, and a skull hinting at mortality. The mural's composition draws the eye upward, culminating in a celestial realm where stars and planets dance in harmony.

"Omnisciencia" is not merely a work of art; it is a philosophical treatise rendered in vibrant hues. Rivera's mural invites viewers to ponder the complexities of human nature, the pursuit of knowledge, and the ultimate destiny of humankind. It is a testament to Rivera's enduring legacy as a master muralist and a profound commentator on the human condition.

Diego Rivera Mural

Nestled in the heart of Mexico City's historic district, Sanborns Restaurant resides within the captivating Casa de los Azulejos, or "House of Tiles." This architectural gem, dating back to the 18th century, boasts an opulent facade adorned with intricate blue and white Talavera tiles, a testament to Mexican craftsmanship. As you step inside, the grandeur continues with a stunning stained-glass roof illuminating the main courtyard and murals by renowned artists like José Clemente Orozco and Pacologue adorning the walls.

Sanborns Restaurant occupies the inner courtyard, where diners can savor traditional Mexican cuisine amidst the building's historical splendor. The menu features a delectable array of dishes, including the famous "Our Famous Swiss Enchiladas," known for their flavorful sauce and bubbling cheese. While indulging in the culinary delights, guests can admire the intricate chinaware, each piece adorned with a tragic Asian love story.

Beyond the dining experience, Sanborns Restaurant offers a glimpse into the building's rich history. The House of Tiles has witnessed countless events, from serving as a palace for the Counts del Valle de Orizaba to hosting the Zapatista army during the Mexican Revolution. Its transformation into a Sanborns restaurant in the early 20th century has preserved its legacy while creating a unique dining destination that seamlessly blends history, art, and gastronomy.

The House of Tiles

Did You Know?

Historical Roots

Tile Tapestry

Hidden Gem

Echoes of the Past

Highlights from Reviews

Location