Macro Plaza

The Gran Plaza, commonly known as “Macro Plaza”, is a unique attraction in Monterrey that you won’t want to miss. The combination of colonial architecture and contemporary style, which can be seen in some of the surrounding buildings, makes this sight a great experience for all visitors.

The “Gran Plaza” was built in the 1980’s. It is 40 hectares in length and it is considered as one of the biggest plazas in the world. It starts at the “Explanada de los Heroes” where the neo-classical style of the State Government Palace building stands out.
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Touring this area, you can find various sculptures of famous Mexican heroes throughout history. Other sculptures include the "Horse", by the famous Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero, and "The Lagartera", the work of distinguished Mexican Oaxacan Francisco Toledo.

During your walking you will see: the City Theater, the State Congress, the Central Library, the Fountain of Life, the sundial, the Zaragoza Fountain, and the Casino Monterrey- which is a private social club, as well as many other interesting sites.

The most well known icon for all visitors is the "Faro del Comercio" (Commerce Beacon). This is considered the greatest monument in Mexico reaching 70 meters high. It was donated to the city by the Chamber of Commerce in Monterrey (CANACO) and built by architect Luis Barragan. It has been declared a national artistic monument.

On the other side of the Macroplaza you will find the “Sun's Monument”. This piece, made by Mexican artist Rufino Tamayo, is located in front of the City Hall where you can also appreciate a beautiful mural that portrays Monterrey’s history.

If you appreciate art and history, the Macro Plaza is the best place for you. Here you will find several museums such as the MARCO (Contemporary Art Museum), the Government Palace Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Monterrey, the Mexican History Museum, and many beautiful old facades inside the Barrio Antiguo (Old Quarter). There are also many beautiful Churches like the Metropolitan Cathedral of Monterrey.

Another place worth visiting is the “Paseo Santa Lucia”, or Santa Lucia River Walk, where you and your family can enjoy a walk or boat ride along its 1.5 miles. This canal connects the “Parque Fundidora” with the Macro Plaza. During the evenings, the River Walk is illuminated with light making it a perfect time to experience its serenity.

One way to visit the Macro Plaza and the surroundings area is by taking the Trolley bus. This unique tourist transport operates every 30 minutes stopping at the most important sights and attractions in the downtown area.
We invite you to visit every spot along this plaza, its green space, monuments, colonial buildings, museums, and attractions.