Mexico City’s Gran Hotel: A Century of Opulence and Art Nouveau Splendor
The Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México stands as a landmark in the Historic Center, celebrated for its Art Nouveau grandeur and rich history. Originally built in 1899 as a lavish department store, the building has since transformed into one of the city’s most iconic hotels, blending opulence with nearly 125 years of cultural significance.
Commissioned by businessman Agustín de Iturbide, the hotel was designed by architect Francisco Javier Yáñez on the site of the former Palacio del Emperador Iturbide. It first opened its doors in 1899 as the Centro Mercantil, a high-end department store during the Porfirio Díaz era. The space became a hub for Mexico City’s elite, reflecting the era’s French influences and economic growth.
After closing as a department store in 1958, the building underwent extensive restoration. It reopened in 1968 as the Gran Hotel, just in time for the Mexico City Olympics. The renovation preserved its most striking features: a neoclassical façade paired with an extravagant interior of floral motifs, marble floors, and Louis XV-style chandeliers. The centrepiece remains the breathtaking Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, crafted by Jacques Grüber in 1908. Today, the hotel offers a range of accommodations, from Deluxe King rooms to Master Suites with views of the Zócalo. Rates vary by season and availability, with weekday stays in early January starting around $4,800–$4,900 MXN per night. Guests and visitors can also dine at the Rooftop Terrace Restaurant & Bar, which serves Mexican cuisine alongside panoramic views of the Historic Center. Even those not staying overnight can explore the hotel’s interiors by booking a reservation through the official website.
The Gran Hotel de la Ciudad de México continues to be a symbol of the city’s evolving identity. Its blend of historic architecture, luxury amenities, and cultural heritage draws visitors seeking both elegance and a connection to Mexico City’s past. The hotel remains a living testament to the city’s transformation over more than a century.
