Borda House, Colonial mansion in Historic Center, Mexico
Borda House is a colonial mansion in Mexico City's Historic Center featuring decorative stone work and wrought iron balconies on its exterior walls. The complex spans multiple street addresses and incorporates different building sections that now serve as shops and commercial spaces.
The building was constructed in 1775 by architect Francisco Antonio Guerrero y Torres for merchant José de la Borda. It combined red tezontle stone and grey sandstone, representing the grand urban palaces built during the late colonial period.
The main entrance features a niche housing a Virgin statue, reflecting the religious values that shaped colonial Mexican households. This religious expression was a common way for wealthy families to display their faith and influence in daily life.
The complex is spread across several addresses in the downtown area and is accessible by public transport, with bus stops and metro stations within walking distance. Visitors should note that many sections now house commercial businesses, so access is generally limited to the exterior and some interior areas.
The section at 33 Madero Street housed one of Mexico City's first movie theaters, the Salón Rojo, which featured an electric escalator in the early 1900s. This technological addition was remarkably modern for that era within the historic downtown area.
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