Explore the Chapultepec Castle, the only royal castle in North America! This iconic landmark offers stunning views, grand royal rooms, and fascinating stories!
THE ULTIMATE PARENT’S GUIDE
Visit the Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec) with Kids
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
- Welcome to Chapultepec Castle, the only real royal castle in North America!
- WOW! The castle sits on top of a 200-foot-tall hill that was once an island in a giant lake!
- SUPER COOL! The castle has secret tunnels underneath that were used as escape routes for presidents and important people!
- HOLY COW! The name “Chapultepec” means “Grasshopper Hill” in the ancient Aztec language, Nahuatl!
- AMAZING! Before it was a castle, the hill was used by Aztec rulers as a special place to relax and enjoy nature!
- INCREDIBLE! During the Mexican-American War, six brave teenage cadets defended the castle, and they’re now known as the “Niños Héroes” (Hero Children)!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
The Royal Carriages Display Get Ready for the The Royal Carriages Display : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? See the actual golden carriages that carried emperors and presidents through Mexico City’s streets, just like in fairy tales!
INTERESTING FACT! The Emperor Maximilian’s carriage was so fancy it had special springs made of silk to make the ride extra smooth – imagine bouncing on silk pillows while traveling through the city!
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “Royal Transportation Designer” – Have your child design their own royal carriage on paper, encouraging them to think about what special features they would include (like candy dispensers or rainbow wheels!)
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could design your own royal carriage, what would make it special?
DISCUSS: Emperor Maximilian’s carriage took three years to build and was covered in real gold leaf that would shine so bright in the sun, people could see it coming from miles away!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Royal carriages weren’t just for show – they were like the luxury cars of their time. Each carriage had special features like hidden compartments for snacks, special cushions that could be heated with hot coals in winter, and even early versions of shock absorbers made from leather straps. Some carriages even had special windows that could be covered with silk curtains to keep the sun out, just like our car windows today have tinting!
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think the carriages are so tall and big?
DISCUSS: The wheels on royal carriages were taller than most adults to help them drive through muddy, unpaved streets without getting stuck!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The height of the carriages wasn’t just about staying clean – it was also about being seen! Just like how we might recognize important cars today (like the President’s limousine), people could spot royal carriages from far away. The tall carriages helped keep the passengers dry during rainy seasons, protected them from mud splashes, and made it easier for people to see and wave to their leaders. The big size also meant they could carry lots of supplies for long journeys, kind of like having a trunk in our cars today!
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the carriage with the most decorations on it. Count how many different animals you can spot in the designs.
HINT: Look carefully at the golden details – some animals might be hiding in the corners!
OBJECTIVE: Spot the smallest carriage in the collection.
HINT: This special carriage was used for children – can you imagine a little prince or princess riding in it?
The Castle Gardens Get Ready for the The Castle Gardens : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Explore beautiful gardens where butterflies dance and flowers bloom all year round, with the best views of Mexico City!
INTERESTING FACT! The gardens have special plants that the Aztecs used as medicine hundreds of years ago, and some are still used today!
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “Rainbow Garden Hunter” – Try to find flowers in all the colors of the rainbow and make a colorful garden map.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think the gardeners get water to all these plants way up here on the hill?
DISCUSS: The castle has secret underground tunnels that carry water to the gardens, just like a giant underground sprinkler system!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The garden’s water system is like a mini version of how the ancient Aztecs watered their floating gardens. They created special channels and used gravity to move water where they needed it. Today, the castle gardens use both modern sprinklers and some of these old techniques. The gardens are designed like a giant puzzle where each plant gets exactly the water it needs – some plants even help water their neighbors!
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could plant your own royal garden, what would you grow in it?
DISCUSS: Some of the plants in this garden can change color depending on the weather, like nature’s mood rings!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Royal gardens weren’t just pretty – they were like outdoor supermarkets and pharmacies! Many plants here were chosen because they could be used as medicine, food, or to make beautiful dyes for clothes. Some flowers in the garden attract special birds and butterflies that help other plants grow better. It’s like having a team of tiny garden helpers! The garden is designed to have something blooming in every season, so it’s never without color.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different types of leaves and compare their shapes.
HINT: Look for leaves that remind you of hearts, stars, or your favorite shapes!
OBJECTIVE: Spot a butterfly or bird in the garden.
HINT: Stay quiet and still near the colorful flowers – that’s where they like to visit!
The Lookout Terrace Get Ready for the The Lookout Terrace : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Stand where kings and presidents once stood to see all of Mexico City spread out below like a giant colorful map!
INTERESTING FACT! On clear days, you can see the snow-capped volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl – they’re part of an ancient love story about two giants who turned into mountains!
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “I Spy” with the city below, looking for famous landmarks and counting how many different colored buildings you can spot.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were a bird flying over Mexico City, what would be the first place you’d want to visit?
DISCUSS: Birds flying over Mexico City can see the castle from 3 miles away because its white walls shine so brightly in the sun!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: From up here, Mexico City looks like a giant patchwork quilt of buildings, parks, and streets. Just like birds have favorite perches, the castle was built on this spot because it was the highest point around. The Aztecs believed this hill was special because it was closer to the sky gods. Today, pilots use the castle as a landmark when flying into Mexico City, just like birds might use it to navigate!
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they built the castle so high up on this hill?
DISCUSS: The hill the castle sits on is actually a volcanic rock that formed millions of years ago – it’s like nature’s perfect pedestal for a castle!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Building the castle up high wasn’t just about having amazing views. In the old days, being up high helped guards see if anyone was coming to attack the city. It’s like having the ultimate treehouse lookout! The height also kept the castle cool in summer and helped catch fresh breezes. The hill itself was so special to the Aztecs that they called it “Grasshopper Hill” (Chapultepec in their language), and they believed it had magical powers.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Try to spot all four directions (North, South, East, West) and find something interesting in each direction.
HINT: The sun rises in the east and sets in the west – use this to help you figure out which way is which!
OBJECTIVE: Count how many different types of transportation you can see moving in the city below.
HINT: Look for cars, buses, and even the metro train lines!
The Royal Rooms Get Ready for the The Royal Rooms : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Step into rooms where real emperors and presidents lived, with furniture and decorations that look like they’re from a fairy tale!
INTERESTING FACT! The castle has special stained glass windows that create rainbow patterns on the floor when the sun shines through them!
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “Royal Detective” – try to find all the animals hidden in the room decorations (there are lions, eagles, and even serpents in the designs!)
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If this was your bedroom, what would you keep the same and what would you change?
DISCUSS: The royal beds were so tall that they needed special little stairs to climb into them!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The royal bedrooms were like mini museums themselves. The walls were covered in silk wallpaper that took artists months to create. The furniture wasn’t just for sitting or sleeping – many pieces had secret compartments for hiding important documents or treasures. Even the ceiling decorations tell stories – some have paintings of angels and stars that would have helped the royal family drift off to sleep.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How many different colors can you find in just one room?
DISCUSS: Some of the paint colors used in these rooms were made from crushed precious stones and real gold!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The colors in the castle weren’t just chosen because they looked pretty – each color had a special meaning. Gold represented power and wealth, blue was for loyalty, and red showed bravery. It’s like each room was telling a story through its colors! The patterns and designs you see were carefully chosen to show important symbols of Mexico, like eagles and snakes from the country’s flag.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different types of crowns or royal symbols in the decorations.
HINT: Look up at the ceilings and around doorways – royal symbols are often in unexpected places!
OBJECTIVE: Spot something in each room that we still use in our homes today.
HINT: Look for mirrors, chairs, or tables – some things haven’t changed much in 150 years!
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec):
Chapultepec Zoo: Just a short walk away, meet over 200 species of animals including adorable pandas and native Mexican wildlife in one of the world’s oldest zoos! View the Parent’s Guide!
National Museum of Anthropology: Right next door, discover giant Aztec stone carvings, a huge replica of an ancient temple, and amazing treasures from Mexico’s past that will make your imagination soar!
La Feria Chapultepec: A fantastic amusement park with rides for all ages, perfect for adding some extra excitement to your castle adventure!
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- “Castle on a Hill: The Story of Chapultepec” – A beautifully illustrated children’s book that introduces the castle’s history through the eyes of a young explorer.
- “Maximilian and Carlota: A Story of Empire” (simplified children’s version) – Learn about the emperor and empress who once lived in the castle.
- “The Legend of the Niños Héroes” – An age-appropriate telling of the brave young cadets who defended the castle.
- Visit the INAH children’s website for interactive games about Mexican history
- Watch kid-friendly YouTube videos about castle architecture and royal life
- Download the free Chapultepec Castle children’s guide from the official website
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
- Chapultepec Castle sits majestically on a hill that was once considered sacred by the Aztecs and has been a powerful symbol of Mexican history for over 800 years.
- WOW! The castle’s name “Chapultepec” comes from the Nahuatl words “chapulli” (grasshopper) and “tepec” (hill) – meaning “Grasshopper Hill”!
- HOLY COW! During the castle’s time as a Military Academy, students had to climb up and down the hill three times before breakfast every morning!
- SUPER COOL! The castle has been a fortress, military academy, imperial residence, presidential home, observatory, and now stands as Mexico’s National History Museum!
- AMAZING! Hidden beneath the castle are secret tunnels that were used as escape routes for presidents and important officials!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
The Lookout Tower (Caballero Alto) Get Ready for the The Lookout Tower (Caballero Alto) : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This towering viewpoint offers the most spectacular 360-degree view of Mexico City! It’s where soldiers once kept watch over the city, and now you can play detective spotting landmarks from high above the sprawling metropolis.
INTERESTING FACT! During the Mexican-American War in 1847, young cadets used this tower as a strategic point to defend the castle. The tower was designed with special narrow windows called “arrow slits” that allowed defenders to see out while staying protected!
COOL ACTIVITY! “Time Travel Telescope” – Pretend you’re a royal guard from different time periods. What would you have seen from this spot in 1800? 1900? Today? Create a timeline of changes you might have witnessed from this exact spot.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were designing a castle, why would you build it on top of a hill instead of in a valley?
DISCUSS: The hill Chapultepec Castle sits on is actually a volcanic rock formation that’s 200 feet high!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The location wasn’t just about the amazing views – it was a brilliant strategic choice. Imagine you’re playing a game of capture the flag – would you rather defend from up high or down low? Ancient rulers knew that higher ground gave them advantages like:Being able to see enemies approaching from miles away, making it harder for attackers to climb up while carrying weapons, access to fresh water from natural springs in the hill and the ability to use gravity to their advantage in defense.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think they got all the building materials up this hill to construct such a massive castle?
DISCUSS: The castle wasn’t built all at once – it took multiple renovations and additions over 300 years to become what you see today!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The construction was like a giant puzzle that took generations to complete: Workers used a combination of pulleys, ramps, and even human chains to move materials Some stones were actually quarried right from the hill itself Local volcanic rock was used in the foundation, making the castle literally part of the hill Each ruler who lived here added their own touch, like adding new rooms or decorations The castle has survived earthquakes thanks to its clever construction methods
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find the four cardinal directions (North, South, East, West) and identify one major landmark in each direction.
HINT: Look for Popocatépetl volcano to the East and the skyscrapers of Reforma Avenue to the North.
OBJECTIVE: Spot at least three different types of transportation moving through the city below.
HINT: Look for the distinctive yellow color of Mexico City’s buses and the glint of sunlight on car windshields.
The Royal Gardens and Terraces Get Ready for the The Royal Gardens and Terraces : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These aren’t just any gardens – they’re a royal maze of exotic plants, hidden fountains, and marble terraces where emperors and empresses once strolled! The gardens were designed to recreate European royal gardens, making you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
INTERESTING FACT! Empress Carlota personally selected many of the plants and designed parts of the garden layout. She created special areas where hummingbirds would gather, and some of these same plant species still attract hummingbirds today!
COOL ACTIVITY! “Royal Garden Detective” – Create a nature journal as you explore. Sketch the different types of plants you find and try to guess which ones might have been here during Empress Carlota’s time versus which were added later.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think having elaborate gardens was so important to rulers throughout history?
DISCUSS: Gardens weren’t just for beauty – they were a way to show power! Having rare plants from around the world proved that a ruler had connections and wealth.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Gardens were like the social media of their time: Rulers would compete to have the most impressive gardens Some plants were worth more than gold Gardens showed that rulers could control nature itself The design of pathways and fountains often contained hidden symbols Different flowers were chosen to bloom in different seasons, ensuring year-round color
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could design a garden for a modern-day castle, what would you include and why?
DISCUSS: The castle’s gardens include a hidden irrigation system from the 1800s that still works today!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The gardens were like an early theme park: They included special effects like water fountains that could surprise visitors Secret pathways allowed servants to maintain the gardens without being seen Plants were arranged by height to create optical illusions Some areas were designed to amplify sounds while others created quiet spaces The layout was planned to create different “moods” as you walked through
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different types of geometric shapes in the garden design (hint: look at the pathways and fountain patterns).
HINT: Start at the main fountain and walk in a circle around it – the patterns will reveal themselves!
OBJECTIVE: Locate the special “butterfly-attracting” plants in the garden.
HINT: Look for clusters of bright flowers, especially purple and yellow ones, near the southern terrace.
The Military Museum (Sala de Banderas) Get Ready for the The Military Museum (Sala de Banderas) : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? Step into a real-life action movie set where Mexico’s most dramatic military moments come to life! This isn’t just a room of old weapons – it’s where you’ll discover the incredible story of the Niños Héroes (Boy Heroes) and see actual battle flags that flew over Mexican battlefields.
INTERESTING FACT! The famous sword collection includes weapons that change color under different lighting conditions due to special metalworking techniques used centuries ago!
COOL ACTIVITY! “Strategy Commander” – Choose a historic battle displayed in the museum and create your own battle plan using the actual terrain models shown. What strategies would you use to defend the castle?
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were one of the teenage cadets defending the castle, what would you have used from your surroundings as a weapon or defense tool?
DISCUSS: The young cadets used everything from rocks to bedsheets as defensive tools, and even turned dinner forks into weapons!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Military innovation often comes from creative thinking: Soldiers throughout history have used everyday items in surprising ways The castle’s architecture included clever defensive features like false doors Even the staircases were designed to give defenders an advantage Messages were sent using complex flag signals from the tower The castle’s wells could sustain defenders for months during a siege
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they keep so many different flags in this room, and what do the symbols on them mean?
DISCUSS: Each battle flag tells a unique story – some have actual bullet holes and sword cuts from real battles!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Flags were like the social media of armies: Different symbols represented different military units Colors had specific meanings (green for hope, white for unity) The size of the flag indicated the importance of the unit Some flags contained secret messages in their designs Capturing an enemy’s flag was considered the ultimate victory
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different types of swords and identify what makes each one unique (look for differences in the handles and blades).
HINT: Check the display cases near the windows – the natural light helps show the different metal types used.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the oldest flag in the collection and try to spot what makes it different from modern Mexican flags.
HINT: Look for faded colors and different eagle designs – the Mexican flag has changed several times throughout history!
The Carriage Exhibition Get Ready for the The Carriage Exhibition : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These aren’t just any old carriages – they’re like time machines on wheels! You’ll see the actual golden carriage Emperor Maximilian rode in, complete with hidden compartments and special springs that made it bounce less on bumpy roads.
INTERESTING FACT! The emperor’s carriage had a special communication system – a series of tubes and bells that allowed passengers to send messages to the driver without stopping, like an old-school car phone!
COOL ACTIVITY! “Royal Ride Designer” – Imagine you’re creating a carriage for a modern ruler. Draw your design incorporating both historical elements and modern technology. What features would you include?
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think traveling in these carriages compares to riding in our car? What would be better or worse?
DISCUSS: A journey that takes 30 minutes by car today would have taken over 4 hours by carriage, and passengers needed to stop every 2 hours to rest the horses!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Carriage travel was an adventure: Carriages had special shock absorbers made of leather straps Riders brought hot bricks to warm their feet in winter Some carriages had early “entertainment systems” like book holders Special carriages were designed for different weather conditions The sound of approaching carriages could be heard from a mile away
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think some carriages are so fancy while others are plain? What does this tell us about life back then?
DISCUSS: The color and decoration of a carriage was like a social media status symbol – people could tell how important you were just by looking at your ride!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Carriages were like the luxury cars of their day: Gold leaf decorations cost more than a house Special springs were imported from England Each carriage was custom-made for its owner Different designs showed different ranks in society Some had secret compartments for valuable items
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find all the different animals depicted in the carriage decorations (not just horses!).
HINT: Look carefully at the door panels and roof decorations – mythical creatures count too!
OBJECTIVE: Locate three different types of materials used in carriage construction.
HINT: Start with the wheels and work your way up – look for wood, metal, leather, and fabric.
The Mural Room Get Ready for the The Mural Room : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These aren’t just giant paintings – they’re like comic books on walls that tell Mexico’s most exciting stories! The murals bring history to life with vibrant colors and hidden symbols that tell stories of ancient civilizations, battles, and revolutions.
INTERESTING FACT! The artists used special paints that change appearance depending on where you stand in the room. Move around and watch the murals seem to come alive with different lighting!
COOL ACTIVITY! “Story Detective” – Choose a section of a mural and create a story about what happened just before and just after the scene shown. Look for clues in the characters’ expressions and the objects around them.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could paint a giant mural about your life, what moments would you include and what symbols would represent you?
DISCUSS: The artists hid their own faces in some of the murals – they painted themselves as background characters watching history unfold!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Murals were like ancient Instagram posts: Artists used specific colors to show different emotions Some figures are painted larger than others to show importance Hidden messages and jokes are scattered throughout Real historical figures are mixed with mythological creatures The position of the sun and shadows tells you what time of day it is in each scene
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think they chose to tell these stories through art instead of just writing them down?
DISCUSS: One square meter of these murals took about a week to paint, and the artists had to work while lying on their backs on scaffolding!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Murals were like newspapers of their time: They could be understood by people who couldn’t read The stories could be seen from far away Colors and symbols had special meanings everyone understood The size of the murals made people feel part of the story Artists included current events alongside historical scenes
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find five different symbols representing Mexico (like eagles, snakes, or specific plants) hidden in the murals.
HINT: Start at the bottom of each mural and work your way up – many important symbols are hidden in the corners!
OBJECTIVE: Locate three different scenes showing how people lived in different time periods.
HINT: Look for changes in clothing styles and the tools people are using.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec):
National Museum of Anthropology: Just a short walk away, discover massive Aztec stone carvings and the famous Sun Stone that’s like an ancient calendar carved in rock!
Chapultepec Zoo: Home to rare Mexican species like axolotls and Mexican wolves, plus it’s one of the few places in the world where giant pandas have successfully bred.
Modern Art Museum: Features incredible rotating sculptures and interactive art installations that will challenge your imagination.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- The Royal Castles of Mexico by Juan B. Artigas – filled with amazing photographs and stories about the castle’s royal past
- History of Mexico for Kids by Margaret J. Goldstein – helps understand the important events that happened at the castle
- Maximilian and Carlota: Europe’s Last Empire in Mexico (Young Readers’ Edition) – brings to life the story of the castle’s most famous residents
- Chapultepec: The Castle of Mexican History on YouTube to get excited about what you’ll see!
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
- HOLY MOLY! The name “Chapultepec” comes from the Nahuatl words “chapulli” (grasshopper) and “tepec” (hill), meaning “grasshopper hill”!
- MIND-BLOWING! The castle has served as a military academy, astronomical observatory, presidential residence, and film location for various Hollywood movies!
- INCREDIBLE! During the Mexican-American War, six teenage military cadets chose to die defending the castle rather than surrender, with one wrapping himself in the Mexican flag and jumping to his death!
- WOW! The castle’s stained glass windows contain hidden Masonic symbols, reflecting the influence of Freemasonry on Mexican independence leaders!
- AMAZING! The castle’s basement once housed a secret emergency bunker for the Mexican president during the Cold War!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
The Maximilian and Carlota’s Chambers Get Ready for the The Maximilian and Carlota’s Chambers : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These opulent rooms showcase the brief but fascinating period when Mexico was an empire under Maximilian of Habsburg and his wife Carlota, offering a glimpse into 19th-century royal life.
INTERESTING FACT! The rooms still contain original furniture and personal items, including Carlota’s piano and Maximilian’s telescope, which he used to observe the city and potential military threats.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a royal decree! Write your own proclamation addressing a current social issue, similar to how Maximilian issued decrees about workers’ rights and education.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were Emperor/Empress of Mexico for a day, what three laws would you create to improve life for everyone?
DISCUSS: Maximilian actually implemented several progressive reforms, including limiting working hours to 10 per day and abolishing child labor, which were revolutionary ideas for the 1860s.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Maximilian’s reign represents a fascinating clash between European monarchy and Mexican democracy. Despite being installed by France, he often sided with liberal causes, creating tension with his conservative supporters. His reforms included protecting indigenous rights, supporting the arts, and designing wide boulevards in Mexico City inspired by European capitals. However, his foreign origin and installation by French forces ultimately led to his downfall and execution.
ASK YOUR KIDS: Looking at the royal chambers’ architecture and decoration, what elements seem European and what elements seem Mexican? Why do you think they chose this blend?
DISCUSS: The castle’s interior design combines French Empire style with Mexican motifs, including eagle symbols and indigenous patterns, reflecting Maximilian’s attempt to bridge two cultures.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The castle’s design reflects the complex cultural identity of 19th-century Mexico. The European-style furniture and decorations show the strong influence of French culture on Mexican elite society. However, Mexican elements were intentionally incorporated to legitimize Maximilian’s rule and appeal to local sensibilities. This cultural fusion can still be seen in modern Mexican architecture and design.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Locate three different symbols of power within the royal chambers (hint: look for eagles, crowns, and imperial monograms).
HINT: Check the ceiling decorations and furniture carvings.
OBJECTIVE: Find evidence of Carlota’s artistic interests in the rooms.
HINT: Look for musical instruments and painting materials.
The Observation Deck and City Views Get Ready for the The Observation Deck and City Views : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This strategic viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of Mexico City, showcasing how the megalopolis has grown from an ancient lake bed to one of the world’s largest urban centers.
INTERESTING FACT! The castle sits 7,628 feet above sea level, and on clear days, you can see the volcanic peaks of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a time-lapse photo series from different angles of the observation deck, documenting how light and shadows change across the city landscape.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think the Aztecs used this vantage point strategically, and how does it compare to modern surveillance technology?
DISCUSS: The Aztecs used smoke signals from this hill to communicate across the Valley of Mexico, creating one of the earliest warning systems in the Americas.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The hill’s strategic importance spans centuries. The Aztecs used it not only for communication but also for water management, building aqueducts that supplied Tenochtitlan. During the Mexican-American War, six young military cadets (Los Niños Héroes) defended the castle against U.S. forces, becoming national heroes. Today, modern Mexico City uses advanced technology like cameras and sensors for urban monitoring, but the castle’s position remains as strategically valuable as it was centuries ago.
ASK YOUR KIDS: Looking at the city layout, can you identify where the ancient lake of Texcoco once was? What clues might help us?
DISCUSS: The areas that sink and flood most frequently in modern Mexico City correspond exactly to the boundaries of the ancient lake, showing how geography continues to influence urban development.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Mexico City faces unique challenges because it’s built on a former lakebed. The ground is still sinking at a rate of up to 20 inches per year in some areas. This phenomenon, called subsidence, affects building stability and water management. The Aztecs dealt with these challenges by building floating gardens (chinampas) and complex canal systems. Modern engineers must constantly innovate to address these same geological challenges, making Mexico City a fascinating study in urban adaptation.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Identify three different historical periods of architecture visible in the cityscape.
HINT: Look for colonial church spires, modern skyscrapers, and pre-Hispanic ruins.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the remains of the ancient aqueduct system.
HINT: Follow the line of trees and historic structures leading toward the city center.
The National Museum of History Galleries Get Ready for the The National Museum of History Galleries : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These galleries house an incredible collection of Mexican historical artifacts, from pre-Hispanic items to modern times, including the famous independence flag of Miguel Hidalgo.
INTERESTING FACT! The museum contains personal items from every major period of Mexican history, including Porfirio Díaz’s ceremonial sword and Santa Anna’s prosthetic leg.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a digital timeline using photos of artifacts from different historical periods, adding your own captions explaining their significance.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could interview any historical figure represented in these galleries, who would it be and what three questions would you ask?
DISCUSS: Many of the artifacts here were saved from destruction during the Mexican Revolution by citizens who hid them in their homes, creating a underground network of art preservationists.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The preservation of historical artifacts tells us as much about the people who saved them as the items themselves. During times of political upheaval, everyday citizens risked their lives to protect these pieces of national heritage. This tradition continues today with modern Mexican archaeologists and historians working to preserve newly discovered artifacts. The museum’s collection represents not just official history, but the story of how ordinary people valued and protected their cultural heritage.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do the weapons, clothing, and tools in this museum reflect the technological and social changes in Mexican society over time?
DISCUSS: The transition from obsidian weapons to steel, and then to firearms, mirrors Mexico’s integration into global trade networks and technological advancement.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The evolution of Mexican military and civilian technology reflects broader global patterns of development. Indigenous weapons made from obsidian were actually sharper than early European steel, but were more brittle. The adoption of European technology wasn’t always an improvement, but rather a different solution to similar problems. This technological exchange went both ways, with European armies adopting Mexican military innovations like the guerrilla warfare tactics used by indigenous warriors.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Locate three artifacts that show the blending of European and indigenous Mexican cultures.
HINT: Look for religious objects, military equipment, and clothing.
OBJECTIVE: Find evidence of how Mexican military uniforms evolved over time.
HINT: Compare the materials, colors, and styles from different periods.
The Castle Gardens and Terraces Get Ready for the The Castle Gardens and Terraces : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These meticulously maintained gardens showcase both French-inspired formal landscaping and native Mexican plants, offering insight into how European and Mexican botanical traditions merged.
INTERESTING FACT! The gardens’ design includes hidden symbols of Mexican independence, with certain flower patterns forming indigenous symbols when viewed from above.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a botanical sketch journal, documenting native Mexican plants and their historical uses in both indigenous medicine and colonial gardens.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think the castle’s gardens reflected the power dynamics between European and Mexican cultures during the 19th century?
DISCUSS: The garden’s design deliberately mixed French formal gardens with traditional Mexican medicinal plants, creating one of the first examples of intentional botanical fusion in the Americas.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The gardens serve as a living museum of colonial influence and resistance. While the formal layout follows European patterns, many plants are native species that were sacred to indigenous peoples. The Aztecs used these same grounds for botanical studies and medicine. Today, scientists study these gardens to understand historical biodiversity and climate change, as some plants that thrived here in the 19th century now struggle due to Mexico City’s changing environment.
ASK YOUR KIDS: What role do you think these gardens played in diplomatic relations and power displays during state visits?
DISCUSS: The terraces were designed to create specific viewing angles that made the castle appear more imposing to visitors approaching from below, a common architectural trick used in European palaces.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Gardens historically served as powerful political tools. The ability to maintain exotic plants demonstrated wealth and global connections. During Porfirio Díaz’s presidency, these gardens hosted elaborate diplomatic events where the placement of guests within the garden hierarchy reflected their political importance. The tradition continues today, with state visits often including garden tours that showcase Mexico’s natural heritage and environmental leadership.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Identify three plants that were used in traditional Mexican medicine.
HINT: Look for informational plaques near plants with distinctive leaf patterns.
OBJECTIVE: Locate elements of French garden design and compare them with Mexican landscape features.
HINT: Notice the symmetry in European sections versus the more natural groupings in Mexican areas.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec)
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Chapultepec Castle (Castillo de Chapultepec):
National Museum of Anthropology: Just a short walk away, this world-class museum houses the most important collection of pre-Hispanic Mexican art and artifacts, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone.
Modern Art Museum: Located within Chapultepec Park, this museum showcases impressive works by Mexican and international artists, with rotating exhibitions that challenge conventional thinking.
Chapultepec Zoo: One of the few zoos worldwide with successful giant panda breeding programs, featuring many endangered Mexican species in naturalistic habitats.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- “The Last Prince of the Mexican Empire” by C.M. Mayo – A historical novel about Maximilian’s reign
- “A Glorious Defeat: Mexico and Its War with the United States” by Timothy J. Henderson – Provides context for the castle’s role in Mexican-American relations
- “The Mexico Reader: History, Culture, Politics” edited by Gilbert M. Joseph – Includes primary sources about various periods in Mexican history
- Download the official INAH app for interactive castle tours and augmented reality experiences
- Watch “The Young and the Damned” (1950) by Luis Buñuel, partially filmed at the castle, for a glimpse of how the location has been used in cinema
LOCATION SUMMARY
Imagine standing atop a magical hill where real princes and princesses once lived, in a castle that touches the clouds above Mexico City! Chapultepec Castle isn’t just any castle – it’s the only real royal castle in all of North America, perched on a hill that was sacred to the Aztecs. What secrets do you think are hiding behind these grand palace walls that have watched over Mexico City for more than 150 years?
MORE INFORMATION
Official site of Museo Nacional de Historia Castillo de Chapultepec
DISCOUNT CODE
Purchase tickets through the INAH website for best official rates
Children under 13 enter free on Sundays
Teachers with valid ID receive free admission
Students with valid ID receive discounted admission
Check tourism offices in Mexico City for combination passes that include Chapultepec Castle and other attractions