Although its official name is the Roberto Cantoral Cultural Center, we all know it as El Cantoral. A staple and icon of Mexico City’s cultural life, it was created with the goal of preserving and promoting Mexican music and art—and continues to do so today. Designed by renowned architect Gerardo Broissin, it was inaugurated in 2012 as a posthumous tribute to the illustrious singer-songwriter Roberto Cantoral.
And although music is an indispensable part of its programming ( especially the famous Candlelight concerts), its schedule also includes the performing arts, among many other events.
A building with a sustainable design
El Cantoral is indeed a technological and avant-garde treasure. But it’s not “just” that—it also coexists in harmony with sustainability. The main objective during its construction was to save energy and make better use of water—a goal it has achieved year after year by saving 90,000 kWh and preventing not only the consumption of 88,000 liters of water but also the emission of more than 60 metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Events and Experiences at El Cantoral (2026)
Did you know that El Cantoral can be rented for private events? And that its facilities are also a highly sought-after location for film shoots and recordings? Since it’s such a modern and visually appealing space, it’s no surprise to see trade shows and conferences taking place in its halls.
However, given that it boasts some of the best acoustics in all of Latin America, what stands out most about its programming is its musical and artistic offerings. It’s common to find stage performances and children’s shows there, and it’s also one of the main venues in Mexico City for Candlelight concerts—events that fill El Cantoral with thousands of candles and pay tribute to all kinds of musical genres in a classical setting.
23 January 2027 18:00
El Cantoral
30 October 2026 19:00 + more dates
El Cantoral
Where is El Cantoral and how to get there
Blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings, El Cantoral in Mexico City is located in the Xoco neighborhood. The most convenient way to get there is by metro, getting off at the Coyoacán station (Line 3) and walking about 15 minutes. You can also take the bus, as several routes—including 1, 108, 200, 22A, and 236—have stops nearby, such as Río Churubusco or José María Rico. If you prefer to drive, the venue has paid parking, though another convenient option is to park at Plaza Mítikah, just a three-minute walk away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can El Cantoral hold?
The venue can accommodate a total of 850 people. Depending on the event, the main hall can seat between 220 and 848 attendees, and the impressive stage can accommodate 80 musicians.
Who was Roberto Cantoral?
He was an important Mexican singer, composer, and activist. From 1982 until his death in 2010, he led the Society of Authors and Composers of Mexico (SACM), leaving a significant legacy in the country’s music industry. Did you know that he donated the rights to the moving song “Pobre Navidad” to institutions dedicated to child welfare, and that “Plegaria de paz” was broadcast for three consecutive years at the Vatican?
How many songs did Roberto Cantoral compose?
The exact number of compositions is unknown. However, it is known that Roberto Cantoral created a large number of hits, especially in the bolero and ballad genres. Iconic songs such as “El Reloj,” “La Barca,” and “El Triste,” among many others, revolutionized the world of music and left an indelible mark.
Nearby attractions in Mexico City
Just a few steps from El Cantoral, the Cineteca Nacional, the imposing Torre Mítikah, and the serene Masayoshi Ohira Park invite you to discover different facets of the city. Mexico City is a city full of contrasts, where architectural beauty coexists with a vibrant culture. The same is true of the Candlelight stages, transformed into oceans of candles that you simply can’t miss.
This article was co-authored by Marina Carrasco and Carla Palenzuela.
