The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, also known as UNAM, is Mexico’s largest public university, one of the most recognized universities in Latin America and a source of much national pride. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007, the Central University City Campus (Ciudad Universitaria) is located southwest of the historic center in the city’s Coyoacán borough. The campus was constructed between 1949 and 1952 by more than 60 architects, engineers and artists. According to whc.unesco.org;
“The campus constitutes a unique example of 20th-century modernism integrating urbanism, architecture, engineering, landscape design and fine arts with references to local traditions, especially to Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past. The ensemble embodies social and cultural values of universal significance and is one of the most significant icons of modernity in Latin America.”
A tour of the campus should definitely be on your list of things to do when your flight touches down in Mexico City. The campus houses the Olympic Stadium, about 40 faculties and institutes (including the Centro de Enseñanza para Extranjeros), a cultural center, botanical garden, the Central Library, and a few museums. It’s also one of the most artistically detailed universities in Latin America with murals by several well-known Mexican artists including Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros.
The University City Campus is a favorite weekend destination among city residents and a popular attraction among travelers arriving to Mexico City on international flights. The closest Metro stations are Universidad, Copilco and Miguel Angel de Quevedo. University shuttles are free and a great way to tour the campus. UNAM also has campuses in San Antonio, Chicago, Los Angeles and Gatineau, Quebec.
Photo credit: via flickr
