Religious relics showcase the
importance of Catholicism to
the local culture.
In the heat of Acapulco’s vibrant transformation, billions of
dollars worth of new construction is shooting up all over town.
This modern city is buzzing with eclectic shopping areas and a
dizzying nightlife. But in the glimmer of neon lights, a visitor
could forget that Acapulco is indeed a very old city.
Clients looking to explore the city’s origins will enjoy two
museums in the heart of downtown that highlight Acapulco’s
historical past.
San Diego Fort
Built in the early 1600s, the San Diego Fort is home to the
Acapulco’s History Museum. High in the hills, the fort overlooks
the city and its impressive port. Once the most important Spanish
fortress along the Pacific Coast, the building now stands as a
memorial to the rich culture that is rooted in the area.
Visitors will quickly notice the building’s unique shape; it is
strategically built in the shape of a five-pointed star. Navigating
from one point of the star to another, visitors can explore the 15
exhibit halls on a self-guided tour.
A working drawbridge marks the
entrance to the San Diego Fort.
On display are relics and accounts from Acapulco’s rich historical
past. Exhibits highlight the first inhabitants native to the
region, the conquest of the Southern Seas, trade with Asia, piracy
in the Pacific and the Mexican War of Independence.
Visitors can also imagine what life was like in the old fort as
they wander through a replica kitchen and chapel or along the
fort’s roof.
While there are no English-speaking tours, exhibit signs
throughout the museum are in both English and Spanish.
The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 9:30 a.m. until 6:30
p.m., with free admission on Sunday.
Casa de la Mascara
Situated just steps from the San Diego Fort is the Casa de la
Mascara or House of Masks. This small museum houses a private
collection of masks from all over the world. The centerpiece of the
permanent exhibition is the native masks from the Guerrero region.
These colorful, funky and sometimes frightening disguises
illustrate cultural traditions and beliefs held by the ancient
people. The museum is free of charge and a nice complement to the
history of the San Diego Fort.
| CONTACT Acapulco Convention and Visitors Bureau
744-484-8555
www.travelagewest.com www.visitacapulco.com.mx Casa de la Mascara
Calle Hornitos y Morelos s/n.
744-485-3404 San Diego Fort
Calle Hornos s/n, Centro WHERE TO STAY Emporio Hotel
This hotel is geared for the hip and trendy. The lobby and rooms
are decorated in a modern minmalistic motif.
800-367-6746
www.hotelesemporio.com  Fairmont Acapulco Princess
This unique pyramid-shaped hotel allows guests who miss their pets
to borrow one during their stay.
800-441-1414
52-744-469-1000 www.fairmont.comFairmont Pierre Marques Hotel
Once the hideaway of J. Paul Getty, this property is known for its
private bungalows.
800-441-1414
52-744-435-2600
www.fairmont.com Hotel Mirador
This hotel is the perfect spot for watching local cliff
divers.
866-573-7197
www.hotelmiradoracapulco.com.mx Hyatt Regency Hotel
Popular with conventions, this hotel is located in the heart of
downtown.
52-744-469-1234
www.acapulco.regency.hyatt.com Las Brisas Hotel
The famous pink hotel is an excellent choice for honeymooners.
866-427-2779
www.brisas.com.mx Quinta Real Hotel
This property caters to distinguished guests who want to lounge on
a private beach.
52-744-469-1500
www.quintareal.com |
