Gay Side of History © Gay Plazas and Temples
Historic Center Walking Tour
Small Group - 3.5 hours - Adults 18+ - From US $59 pp
10 AM - By reservation only
Have fun discovering 700 years of LGBTQ+ history in Mexico City's Historic Center while enjoying the most complete introduction to town. See the main monuments & many relevant sites. A must for first timers and newcomers. We take you to the scene.
This experience takes place within two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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What You Will Do
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In this part of the Gay Side of History experiences, you will learn about LGBT+ traditions from the time of the Aztecs through the 20th century as we stroll by the city’s main monuments.
We will talk about the origins of Mexico before it became the Aztec Empire and “the unspeakable sins” were punished, as we see the military quarters at the Aztec Great Temple.
You will learn about being a lesbian & a feminist in the 17th century as we visit the old economic hub of the Spanish Empire while famous buildings line the full way.
Homosexuality in the early 20th century is seen by Frida Kahlo's high school & that of "Los Contemporáneos," a group of gay scholars.
We will see the Spanish Inquisition's Palace, a prison for sodomites, its hidden homophobic messages & the Old Customs House at the starting point of El Camino Real, turned a safe territory for gay couples, centuries ago.
At St. Mary of the Instruction, we will talk about cloistered lesbians before a landmark place that we call "Crossroads of Diversity," where we share the stories of the cross-dressing ball of "Those 41" and that of Emiliano Zapata.
We will show you many more surprising, centuries-old secrets around convents & cantinas & will point you to 'Gay Bar Row' which you can visit in another part of the Gay Side of History experiences.
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Where You Will Be
At the two main squares within the 16th century city limits, we will discover the LGBT+ side of history by walking on the scene, visiting hidden corners & sharing stories seldom told.
We will see historical sites, learn about the interpretation of monuments & sites by gay men at the turn of the 20th century and more.
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What Is Included
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· The experience's host and expert.
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· Entrance to some private or public locations has been agreed and is fully included.
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· A complimentary bottle of water or soft drink will be offered.
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· You will be provided with a digital LGBT-focused map of the Historic Center so that you may continue exploring on your own and a collection of videos, sources and resources that you can enjoy after the experience.
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The Experience
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On this experience you will discover 700 years of Mexican history and its gay/LGBT+ side and the most important monuments in the Historic Center.
All of this will be seen through the LGBT traditions and practices of the Aztec Empire, 1325 AD, the Spanish Colonial Period, 1519, the Mexican Independent Period, 1810 and the Modern Period, 1910.
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Ending Point, Facilities and Transportation
Visits do not return to the starting point. This experience ends at Plaza de Santo Domingo, close to Metrobus station República de Chile on Line 4N.
Zocalo metro station is five blocks away. Uber or other cars can pick you up on #96 República de Cuba street at Domingo Santo Hotel & Restaurant.
Your host will always remain with you until he makes sure everyone has the right directions and/or help for their next destination.
Things to Keep in Mind
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Local Experts
Led by locals who love where they’re from and what they do.
Small Groups
With intimate group sizes, you’ll never get lost in the crowd.
Exclusive Access
You will always have the best available perspective.
Curated Paths
Our tours follow the best routes possible for enjoying the experience in the shortest distance.
Specialty Topics
Our unique collection of themes sets us apart. All our topics are carefully selected for the discerning tourist.​
High Standards and Award-Winning Experiences
Every experience is vetted for exclusive access, and some have been awarded top prices for their quality and uniqueness.
Cancellation Policy
Any experience can be canceled at least 7 days before the experience starts for a refund minus a 20% processing charge. Rescheduling and changes can be made at least 3 days before the experience starts. Refunds are counted from the original date of purchase.
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Guest Requirements
Up to 10 guests ages 18 and up can attend. All experiences include a long walk, mostly under the sun, with very few restroom stops (depending on the destination). Liquids aren't allowed inside venues, please be willing to dispose of your containers.
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On Schedule
We begin on the dot and do not wait for missing participants. Neither you or us can be late to our next destination.
Weather
This experience goes on rain or shine, please come prepared. In case of rain, we will do our best to spend as much time as possible indoors. In case of unforeseen closures of streets or venues, we are always prepared with an equivalent or alternate route.
Gay Side of History © Gay Plazas and Temples
Historic Center Walking Tour
Small Group - 3.5 hours - Adults 18+ - From US $59 pp
10 AM - By reservation only
