We’ve just returned from a short trip to one of the greatest cities in the world, Mexico City AKA D.F. In just three days we spanned several major eras - from B.C.E. Teotihuacán to the Aztec’s Templo Mayor through the Colonial and Modern Ages, and finally the happening Mexico City of today. A very special treat was our visit to the Gran Hotel, famous for its massive c. 1908 Tiffany glass ceiling designed by Jacques Gruber in France.

One of the largest stained glass installations in the world, the ceiling is a series of arches, domes, and inversions. Nothing was spared on this amazing work. You’ll notice the initials “CM” showing up repetitively and possibly assume they stand for “Ciudad de Mexico”, but they don’t. Originally built in 1899 as an exclusive department store, this building was once known as El Centro Mercantil. It wasn’t until just prior to the 1968 Olympic Games that the building was converted to a hotel.

This work appears to have been restored in recent times as evidenced by the bright and sparkling colors. Thankfully the hotel is taking good care of this asset and we feel lucky to have seen it. Next time we will pause a bit longer and take advantage of their terrace overlooking the Zócalo!

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