Benito Juárez Museum, National Palace

The Museo de Sitio Recinto de Homenaje a Don Benito Juárez (Museum of Homage to Don Benito Juárez) is within the National Palace. It’s one of the main attractions for visitors within the building otherwise busy with government offices.

The museum opened in 1957 in the area of the palace where President Benito Juárez lived during his final years. The opening was during the administration (1952-1958) of President Adolfo Ruiz Cortines. This was to mark the 100th anniversary of the Constitution of 1857 which sparked the beginning of the Reformation period and the wars that followed.

The collections include a number of objects donated by relatives and friends to recreate the personal living quarters of the 19th-century president. Among these are a family living room, private office and a bedroom in the spot where Juárez died in 1872.

The museum also maintains a collection of official documents related to the President’s political activity and a library specialized in the Reform period, the French Intervention, and the Restoration of the Republic.

The museum includes a monumental sculptural portrait of the seated President Juárez. The work is at the base of the stairway leading to the museum. It was completed by sculptor Miguel Noreña in 1891.

There’s also a salon for temporary exhibitions. It’s among the most popular places to visit within the main Federal Government building, along with the important murals lining the stairways.

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.