Palacio de Cortes, Cuernavaca

As the oldest colonial-era civil structure in the Americas, Palacio de Cortes showcases the history of the region and colonial Mexico. Built in 1526 as a residence for the conquistador Hernan Cortez, the building originally had the double purpose of exerting authority over the conquered natives. Later the structure became a barracks and jail, housing prisoners of war during the war for independence. Currently the building serves as a museum showing the history and artifacts from colonial times and earlier. You can view artifacts from other Spanish colonies and the oldest clock in America; most of the information is only available in Spanish. Plan your visit to Palacio de Cortes and a wealth of other attractions, well-known and undiscovered, using our Cuernavaca trip itinerary maker website.