Imagine walking through the hustle and bustle of the Historic Center and suddenly stepping into a world where every bottle holds a secret and every scent transports you to another era. Prepare your senses—especially your sense of smell—as we’ll tell you the fascinating story of the grand mansion that now houses the Perfume Museum in Mexico City.
It all began as an apothecary
In the mid-20th century, what you now know as Tacuba Street earned the nickname “Perfume Street.” This was thanks to the apothecary of the former San Andrés Hospital, which was established there in the 18th century.
This place prepared popular aromatic remedies. Over the years, other businesses began to open on the same street—all focused on the world of aromas.
What better place to tell the story of the most important perfumers, brands, and scents of all time than “Perfume Street” itself, right?
The MUPE mansion used to be a flag factory!
Before becoming the aromatic paradise it is today, the mansion where the MUPE opened had a thousand lives: it housed doctors’ offices, served as a noisy factory producing flags and military uniforms, and even operated as a tenement!
The mansion is beautiful; it boasts eclectic French-style architecture and was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After being restored, the building became Mexico’s first perfume museum.
What’s at the Perfume Museum?
Today, the MUPE houses an impressive collection of more than 10,000 pieces, ranging from elegant historical bottles to laboratory equipment, cosmetics, and vintage magazines.
More than just an exhibition, it’s an immersive aesthetic and emotional experience. In addition to touring its galleries, the venue rents out its spaces for private events. It features areas such as the stained-glass courtyard (for up to 100 people), the elegant Mexico Room, and the workshop area—all ideal for cocktail parties and sensory experiences.
How much is admission?
If you’ve already decided to go this weekend, keep in mind that general admission for Mexican nationals is $100, but there’s a reduced rate of $50 for students, teachers, INAPAM cardholders, and people with disabilities. Plus, children under 7 get in free. You can skip the lines at the ticket office by buying your tickets here.
MUPE Hours and Location
You can set out to explore this hidden gem Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
To get to Tacuba 12 easily, we recommend getting off at the Bellas Artes or Allende Metro stations, which will drop you off just one block away.
Immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind journey, let yourself be amazed by the design of its bottles, and discover how luxury blends seamlessly into the history of the Perfume Museum. We guarantee you’ll fall in love with the city’s scents!
