Colonia Roma is one of Mexico City’s earliest urban neighborhoods, developed at the turn of the 20th century, when downtown no longer provided adequate living space for an expanding population and a growing middle class. It flourished under the Porfirian regime, as reflected in the French-influenced architecture of its mansions, but fell to neglect after the devastating earthquake of 1985.
Recently “rediscovered” by hipsters and young immigrants looking to establish start ups, art galleries, affordable restaurants and boutiques, Colonia Roma is in the process of gentrification, making it a trendy spot for locals and tourists alike. Aside from lots of neighborhood restaurants, cafes and shops, there are loads of thing to see, since the neighborhood plays backdrop to an interesting mix of important architectural structures, dotted with parks, boulevards, and a few new, smallish museums. We will walk along the streets, taking in the cultural centers, museums and shops, narrating the fascinating history of this zone during this three hour tour.