How To Visit Parque Quetzalcóatl Mexico City: A Dreamlike Journey Through Organic Architecture
As a design enthusiast, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Parque Quetzalcóatl during my 7-day solo trip to Mexico City. This hidden gem, nestled in the city’s northwest, is a testament to the visionary mind of architect Javier Senosiain, a pioneer of organic architecture.
Visiting The Wonders of Parque Quetzalcóatl Mexico City: A Dreamlike Journey Through Organic Architecture
I visited Parque Quetzalcoatl on a private guided tour alongside six other design aficionados, eager to uncover the secrets of this surreal landscape. As we wandered through the park’s winding paths, our knowledgeable guide Adriana, who also happens to be an assistant architect on the project, shared fascinating insights into the park’s creation and symbolism.
To our delight, we had the rare chance to meet Senosiain himself as he strolled through the gardens. Adriana called out, “Architect! These are the current park visitors, and they’d like a moment of your time.” With a warm smile, he graciously approached us, greeting everyone and happily posing for a few photos. Dressed in a straw cowboy hat, blue dress shirt, jeans, and boots, Senosiain exuded a humble and soft-spoken demeanor—a true visionary with a down-to-earth spirit.
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The Inspiration Behind Organic Architecture of Parque Quetzalcoatl
As we explored the park, Adriana shed light on the driving force behind Senosiain’s organic architecture philosophy. He believes that modern architecture and industrial processes have isolated humans from the natural world, confining us to a life of “boxes”—from the crib to the office cubicle and, eventually, the coffin.
Senosiain’s vision is to reconcile architecture with nature, creating spaces that emulate the comfort and security of the womb. By eliminating sharp angles and incorporating curved, nature-inspired forms, he aims to foster a more harmonious relationship between people and their surroundings.
what is the parque quetzalcoatl about?
Parque Quetzalcóatl is a stunning park located in the northwest of Mexico City, designed by the visionary architect Javier Senosiain. The park is a masterpiece of organic architecture, which seeks to create harmony between human-made structures and the natural environment
Here are the key aspects of Parque Quetzalcóatl:
- Organic Architecture: Senosiain’s design philosophy eliminates sharp angles and incorporates curved, nature-inspired forms to create a sense of harmony with the surrounding landscape.
- Mythical Symbolism: The park is named after the Aztec feathered serpent deity, Quetzalcóatl, and incorporates references to this mythical figure throughout its design.
- Three Kingdoms: The park is divided into four distinct sections – Plant Kingdom, Animal Kingdom (under construction), and Mineral Kingdom – each representing a different realm of existence.
- Handcrafted Details: The park features meticulous attention to detail, with hand-laid mosaic tiles and intricate stone carvings created by skilled artisans.
- Casa Orgánica: Senosiain’s iconic cave-house, designed for his family in 1984, is located on the park grounds, showcasing his commitment to organic architecture.
- Future Plans: While currently closed to the general public, the park hosts private events and plans to open as a community space accessible for a fee, similar to Antoni Gaudí’s Parc Güell in Barcelona.
Parque Quetzalcóatl is a testament to the power of organic architecture to inspire, heal, and promote a deeper connection between humans and the natural world.
Exploring the Three Kingdoms of Paruqe Quetzalcoatl Mexico City
Parque Quetzalcóatl is divided into four distinct sections, each representing a different realm of existence: the Plant Kingdom, Animal Kingdom (currently under construction), Cosmic Kingdom, and Mineral Kingdom.
As we ventured through the Plant Kingdom
was a true highlight, with its mesmerizing greenhouse that seemed to transport us to another world. The serpentine fountain at its center, coupled with the kaleidoscopic stained-glass roof, created an ethereal atmosphere that left us in awe.
I was enveloped by lush gardens and towering trees, their branches reaching out to create a canopy of serenity. The vibrant mosaic tiles adorning the walkways and structures added a burst of color to the verdant landscape.
While the Animal Kingdom
was still under construction, Adriana painted a vivid picture of what’s to come—a space where visitors can connect with the diverse fauna that call Mexico home, all within an environment that harmonizes with the natural world.
Finally, the Mineral Kingdom
showcased the raw beauty of the earth, with its desert garden featuring an array of cacti and rock formations. It was a stark contrast to the lush greenery of the Plant Kingdom, yet equally captivating in its own right.
Casa Orgánica: Senosiain’s On-Site Masterpiece
During our tour, we had walked by the entrace of Casa Orgánica, the iconic cave-house Senosiain designed for his family back in 1984. This masterpiece of organic architecture seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape, its curves and contours mimicking those found in nature.
Unfortunately, due to the pandemic and the increasing popularity of the house on social media, Casa Orgánica has been closed to the public indefinitely. However, its presence on the park grounds serves as a testament to Senosiain’s unwavering commitment to his design philosophy.
A Labor of Love: The Handcrafted Details
One of the most striking aspects of Parque Quetzalcóatl is the meticulous attention to detail found in every corner of the park. From the hand-laid mosaic tiles to the intricate stone carvings, each element has been painstakingly crafted by skilled artisans.
Adriana explained that the park’s construction has been ongoing for over 20 years, primarily due to the time-consuming nature of these handcrafted details. The mosaic tiles, in particular, are laid one by one with strict precision, creating mesmerizing patterns that harmonize with the organic forms of the architecture.
In Harmony with Nature the primary principle of organic architecture Parque Quetzalcoatlt mexico city
As we explored the park, it became clear that Senosiain’s design approach prioritizes harmony with the natural environment. Rather than reshaping the landscape to fit his vision, he has carefully integrated the architecture into the existing contours of the land.
The valleys and mountains remain untouched, serving as a canvas upon which the park’s structures are gently laid. This respect for the natural world is evident in every aspect of Parque Quetzalcóatl, from the use of local materials to the incorporation of native plant species throughout the gardens.
The Future of Parque Quetzalcóatl
While Parque Quetzalcóatl remains closed to the general public, there are exciting plans for its future. Adriana shared that the ultimate goal is to transform the park into a community space, open to all who wish to experience its wonders.
Much like Antoni Gaudí’s iconic Parc Güell in Barcelona, Parque Quetzalcóatl aims to become a beloved public destination, accessible for a fee that helps maintain and preserve its unique environment. The park already hosts private events, such as weddings, offering a glimpse into the enchanting atmosphere that awaits future visitors.
How to visit parque quetzalcóatl
If you’re planning to visit Parque Quetzalcóatl, keep in mind that it’s currently only accessible through private tours or by staying at the adjacent Nido de Quetzalcóatl residences.
Parque quetzalcóatl Private Tour
To inquire about tour availability, reach out to [email protected].
How much does it cost to visit Parque Quetzalcoatl
The cost was 1,500 Pesos (about $98 USD). It is a 2 hour privately guided tour with a fruit and water break in the middle. It does not include transportation to get there.
How do you get to Parque Quetzalcoatl?
It’s located about 50 minutes from Mexico City and the best way to reach is by Uber. It cost about 250 Pesos to get there and I had the Adrianna arrange a private driver on the way back to Mexico city since the park is located so far from the city center, not many ubers are available. It cost 500 pesos and I was able to split this fare with two other attendees (hey cody and )
Tip: because it is a very long ride and most cars don’t use air conditioning and have manual transmission I recommend you
Can you Visit Parque Quetzelcoatl Mexico City?
The park is set to open to the public within the next 3-5 years, but expect potential visitor limits and higher entrance fees to maintain the delicate environment. The best time to visit is from March to May when temperatures are mild and comfortable.
When you arrive, be prepared to immerse yourself in a world unlike any other. Take your time exploring each section of the park, allowing yourself to fully appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship that went into every element.
As you wander through the gardens, keep an eye out for the mythical symbolism woven throughout the park, particularly references to Quetzalcóatl, the feathered serpent deity of Aztec mythology. This legendary figure embodies the park’s spirit of harmony between the natural and the divine.
Can you visit El Nido de Quetzalcóatl?
Yes and no. El Nido de Quetzalcóatl is an integral part of the Parque Quetzalcóatl project, consisting of a set of ten uniquely designed apartments. These living spaces were created to showcase Senosiain’s organic architecture principles in a residential setting, allowing visitors to experience the harmony between nature and human habitation firsthand. Each apartment features curved walls, natural materials, and abundant natural light, creating a sense of warmth and comfort reminiscent of a nurturing womb.
The apartments are privately rented, making them perfect for those seeking an immersive stay in this architectural wonder. While separate from the main park, tours of El Nido de Quetzalcóatl are not available. but you can rent them on Airbnb. Giving visitors a glimpse into the practical application of Senosiain’s design philosophy. To book a stay or inquire about tours, interested individuals can reach out to the park’s management team at [email protected].
A Transformative Experience
Visiting Parque Quetzalcóatl was a transformative experience that left me with a newfound appreciation for the power of organic architecture and the importance of reconnecting with nature. Senosiain’s vision, brought to life through the tireless efforts of his team, is a testament to the potential for design to inspire, heal, and elevate the human spirit.
As I left the park, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for having had the opportunity to witness this extraordinary creation firsthand. If you find yourself in Mexico City, I highly recommend carving out time to visit Parque Quetzalcóatl—a hidden gem that will leave you enchanted, inspired, and yearning for a deeper connection with the natural world.
