"Tell me: What’s this place all about? This historic but infrequently-visited site was constructed in 1951 as a hydraulic water system connected to the city's main water lines. It no longer acts as a municipal water work but rather a museum and cultural landmark, underscoring the city's complicated relationship with water. In the lesser-traveled section of Chapultepec, it is currently under renovation and closed to the public, though the massive Rivera sculpture of the Azteca water god Tlaloc out front can still be admired. What’s it like being there? The building was designed by architect Ricardo Rivas and would be worth a visit in its own right but is made even more appealing by a sprawling Diego Rivera mural that was originally under water! Drained and water diverted, the murals are even more show-stopping. A kooky mix of mid-century public works and contemporary art live here in the city's green lung. Is there a guide involved? No guide. The facility is quite small but it's a walk to get to. Who comes here? Curious nerds and Rivera deep-cuts venturing off the standard tourist path Did it meet expectations? Feels like a secret. Fingers crossed it will be open next month. So then what, or who, do you think it’s best for? The intrepid. Great for second or third-time visitors to the city who think they've seen everything." - Scarlett Lindeman
