Mexico Attractions

Venue: Museo Olmedo Patiño    When: Daily; not Mon

The Dolores Olmedo Patiño Museum in Xochimilco houses the most important private collection of artwork by Diego Rivera. As well as 137 works by the famous Mexican muralist and painter, there are 25 notable works by Frida Kahlo, 43 by Angelina Beloff, and an extensive collection of Pre-Hispanic pieces and Mexican folk art.

Named after the rich philanthropist who donated the collection, the museum is housed in a 17th-century hacienda once occupied by the "Indian Cacique", Pedro de Alvarado. Alvarado was the grandson and succesor of the last King of Xochimilco, Apochquiyauhtzin, who had his estate in this area. Baptised by the Principal Cacique (landlord), he was one of the main protectors of the indigenous peoples of the region and of the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena. When he died he left the Hacienda as one of his many legacies.