If you read our last blog post on the history on Colonia Roma then you may have already ordered your Uber to Plaza Río de Janeiro. If so then perfect because in this post we are going to feed to you a walking tour of Roma Norte Mexico city.
I’m Jack Thompson, an architect with a deep love for historical and modern buildings alike. Today, I’ll take you on a walking tour of Roma Norte, a vibrant neighbourhood in Mexico City known for its eclectic mix of architectural styles.
We'll start at the beautiful Plaza de Río de Janeiro and wind our way through the streets, discovering the rich history and unique stories behind some of the area's most iconic buildings. Let's lace up our walking shoes and embark on this architectural adventure! First lets check out the map ohh and if you want some more places to explore then don't forget to check out the 10 Best Architectural Wonders of Mexico City.
Roma Norte Mexico City: Route
Walking distance: 2km
Walking Time: 40 minutes
Roma Norte Mexico City: Scene Setting
Roma Norte Mexico City: Architecture Walking Tour
With all of that set, its time to take some steps to lets get to our starting location.
A - Plaza de Río de Janeiro
Our journey begins at the picturesque Plaza de Río de Janeiro, a charming square surrounded by magnificent buildings. Named after the Brazilian city, this plaza features a bronze replica of Michelangelo's David at its centre, providing a striking focal point. The plaza itself is a testament to Roma Norte's early 20th-century European-inspired urban planning, with wide avenues and green spaces designed for leisure and community gathering. There are ample coffee shops around for you to pick up a coffee as we start but take some time here to look over the architecture. You will see everything from Art Deco like the Edifico Rio De Janero to The Porfirian Era style, check out our is blog post 'Is Roma Worth Visiting?' To find out a deeper history of the architecture styles in the area.
As you are looking around the plaza, one of the most famous buildings to take note of is La Casa de Las Brujas, which is location B on our map.
B - La Casa de las Brujas
La Casa de las Brujas or The House of the Witches, has a distinctive pointed roof and gothic elements. It has inspired many local legends and stories. Built in the early 1900s, it was designed by architect R. A. Pigeon and remains one of the most photographed buildings in the neighbourhood. Its mystical appearance and unique design make it a standout in Roma Norte. The red brick building could quite easily be taken straight out of Europe, a tall building with elongated windows, its one to immediately pull the camera our to take your first snap.
Next walk south down Calle Orizaba, you will find a pletora of pretty building to take in as we work our way down to our next stop, Casa Lamm
C - Casa Lamm
Arriving at Casa Lamm, what you will find is a cultural center housed in a stunning early 20th-century mansion. This building, with its French-inspired design and lush gardens, is a significant cultural landmark in Roma Norte. Casa Lamm now serves as an art gallery, library, and café, offering a serene environment to appreciate both its architecture and contemporary Mexican art. It's a perfect example of how historical buildings can be repurposed for modern use. We highly recommend you go in to have a look around and spend a bit of time here as part of your day wandering around Roma Norte.
One you are ready to move on we are going to head across to Casa Prunes
D - Casa Prunes
This beautiful building, with its Beaux-Arts style and intricate detailing, was constructed in the early 1900s. It has recently been restored and now houses a mix of commercial spaces, including boutiques and restaurants. The restoration of Casa Prunes highlights Roma Norte's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while adapting to contemporary uses. It may be one to come back to for an evening cocktail if you are feeling a little flush (you have to book a table. Check out Casa Prunes instagram and you will see what I mean about feeling flush! Back to the building, the facade is very reminiscent of this iconic architect Antoni Gaudi, so its a great opportunity to see a similar style in Mexico in a very pretty street scene.
Ok so this is cool because we are about to go from a stunning 1900's building and walk south down Cordoba to get to the ultra modern.
E - Xoma
Called 'Xoma - Luxury Plus by Viadora', located at Calle Tonalá 110. This modern building exemplifies contemporary luxury living in Roma Norte. Designed with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, Xoma offers high-end amenities and sustainable features. Its innovative design incorporates natural light and green spaces, providing residents with a comfortable and eco-friendly urban living experience. Xoma represents the cutting-edge architectural trends that are shaping the future of Roma Norte. Its an exciting and interesting piece of architecture let us know what you views are on Xoma on the comments below and if you think its sits in Roma well or if you feel it is too modern and not sympathetic enough to the surrounding neighbourhood.
Like it or not its still a great pieces of architecture to take in before we move back to the historic square of Plaza Luis Cabrera.
F - Plaza Luis Cabrera
The plaza is named after Luis Cabrera, a notable Mexican politician, lawyer, and writer who played a significant role during the Mexican Revolution. The centrepiece of the plaza is a beautiful fountain, which serves as a focal point and gathering spot. The fountain often features artistic sculptures that change periodically, adding to the cultural richness of the space.
Surrounding the plaza are buildings that showcase the architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These buildings often feature ornate facades, wrought-iron balconies, and intricate details that reflect the colonial and Porfirian influences.
To the west of the plaza you are able to see the Universidad de Londres Plantel Luis Cabrera
The campus is housed in a building that reflects colonial architectural influences, characteristic of the early 20th century. This adds a historical and cultural depth to the educational environment.
Efforts have been made to preserve the original architectural elements, such as the façade, balconies, and ornamental details. This preservation work helps maintain the historical integrity of the building while providing modern educational facilities.
G - The Macelleria Roma
Heading up North from the Plaza, you will find The Macelleria Roma. This building, once a butcher shop, hence the name 'Macelleria,' meaning 'butcher shop', has been repurposed into a contemporary mixed-use space, encompassing a restaurant, gallery, and cultural hub. The building retains its original industrial charm, with exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and large steel-framed windows. This nod to its past as a butcher shop adds a rustic, authentic feel to the space.
H - Edificio Balmori
Next, we head to Edificio Balmori, located at Calle Orizaba 76. Constructed in 1922, this building is an excellent example of neoclassical architecture with its elegant façade and decorative details. Originally a residential complex, Edificio Balmori has been beautifully preserved, showcasing the refined tastes of Roma Norte's early inhabitants. Its classic design and historical significance make it a must-see on our tour.
Top Tip - located next door to Edificio Balmori is a Supra Roma Rooftop, again one if you have a bit of cash to burn but another spot for those looking for a special evening.
The longest part of the walk, head North up Jalapa, you will walk part a lot of interesting architecture, but the next building we are looking for is The Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia.
I - Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia
Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia is an exquisite example of early 20th-century architecture with significant historical and cultural value.
The church prominently features elements of Neo-Gothic architecture, a style that seeks to revive and emulate the Gothic architecture of medieval Europe. This can be seen in its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate tracery.
The facade has detailed stone carvings and statues, with a central rose window that allows natural light to filter into the interior, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Head inside and you will find a traditional Latin cross layout with a central nave flanked by aisles. The high vaulted ceilings and slender columns enhance the sense of verticality and grandeur.
The stained glass windows depict various biblical scenes and saints, adding to the spiritual ambiance with their vibrant colours and intricate designs.
The main altar is a focal point of the church, often featuring elaborate decorations and religious iconography, contributing to the overall sacred atmosphere.
The church was built in the early 20th century, during a period of significant architectural and cultural development in Mexico City. Its design reflects the influences of European ecclesiastical architecture, adapted to the local context.
Over the years, the Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia has become a significant landmark in the Roma Norte neighbourhood, not only as a place of worship but also as a center for community activities and cultural events.
Right we are at a point where you can head back to the Plaza de Río de Janeiro and grab a well earned drink after a day of exploring or if you want to feel an interesting shift from what feel like small little town house streets to a monster metropolis then head across to Glorieta de los Insurgentes.
Roma Norte Mexico City: Bonus Stop
J - Glorieta de los Insurgentes
Why? You will find yourself standing in the middle of an insanely busy spot a massive busy vehicle and pedestrian circulation point. Standing in the middle of this you can see an array of high rise buildings that amongst the bustle of the people and the vehicles will make you feel like you are in an urban monster of a city and the crazy thing is that is just a few minutes down the road from the much quieter (but still busy) streets of the tour you will have just walked! If you do tack this on let us know how you find the shift and if you can feel it! Now head back to that plaza and get yourself a drink explorer.
Until the next one take care and look after your fellow backpacker.
For the curious explorer