The Nezahualcóyotl Fountain, inside the Chapultepec Forest, is one of the most imposing -and least located- spaces in the park. It is a sculptural monument dedicated to the tlatoani of Texcoco, built in black stone and decorated with large reliefs that narrate different episodes of his life. It was inaugurated in the 1950s and, in addition to its size, it stands out for the way it integrates history, art and landscape within the forest.
And at the beginning of the year, the Candlelight concerts at the Nezahualcóyotl Fountain come to accompany the visit with live music. The proposal is simple: a concert outdoors, by candlelight and in an unusual space for concerts.
A little history of the Nezahualcóyotl Fountain
The Monumental Fountain of Nezahualcóyotl was inaugurated in 1956 and designed by sculptor Luis Ortiz Monasterio. The work was conceived as a tribute to Nezahualcóyotl and as a centerpiece within the Chapultepec Forest. With an extension of more than 1,250m2, the ensemble became one of the largest sculptural projects in the park during the 20th century and a representative example of Mexican modernism.
What you can do at the Nezahualcoyotl Fountain
Usually, the place is toured as part of the walk through the forest, but this beginning of the year it also becomes the stage for Candlelight concerts. Specifically, with a tribute to Adele and another dedicated to Juan Gabriel, José José, Joan Sebastian and more, in an intimate format by the light of thousands of candles.
The event will take place on January 30, with two performances, at 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm. Tickets can be reserved online and seating is limited.
How to get to the Nezahualcoyotl Fountain in Chapultepec Forest
The Nezahualcóyotl Fountain is located in the Bosque de Chapultepec, exactly on Heroico Colegio Militar Avenue, Col. Chapultepec I Section, Miguel Hidalgo, CDMX 11580. To get there by public transportation, the closest Metro station is Chapultepec (Line 1). From there, the walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. It is also possible to arrive by car from Paseo de la Reforma or Av. Constituyentes, with public parking at different access points (availability and rates may vary).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Nezahualcoyotl?
He was tlatoani of Texcoco in the 15th century and one of the most influential figures of pre-Hispanic Mexico. He was a ruler, poet and thinker, as well as a reference in architecture and hydraulic engineering for his participation in the water control system of the Valley of Mexico.
Can I visit the Nezahualcoyotl Fountain for free?
Yes, the visit is free of charge. For the Candlelight concerts, however, a ticket is required.
What do the reliefs carved on the fountain represent?
They represent symbolic scenes related to power, water and knowledge, central axes of Nezahualcóyotl’ s legacy, expressed through monumental reliefs.
Nearby sites of interest in Chapultepec
If you plan to take advantage of your visit to explore more of the area, you should know that near the Fountain of Nezahualcoyotl are some of the most emblematic spaces in the forest: from Chapultepec Castle and the Los Pinos Cultural Complex to the Tamayo Museum. All of them are between 10 and 25 minutes walking, which makes it an ideal plan to combine nature, culture and a special night without leaving Chapultepec.