The conquest of Mexico City was a pivotal moment in history, marked by complex power dynamics and the pivotal roles women played in shaping the foundations of New Spain. This guided tour delves into the historical narratives that challenge traditional stereotypes, highlighting the political agency and multifaceted involvement of Nahua women as mediators, artists, and soldiers. Participants will uncover the stories of heroines and villains, exploring significant sites like the Templo Mayor Museum and the Metropolitan Cathedral, and gaining insights into how these women’s contributions left an indelible mark on the region’s history. Preparing to embark on this immersive journey, one can’t help but wonder what unexpected tales will unfold.
Key Points

- The tour explores the multifaceted roles of women, moving beyond stereotypes of slaves or traitors, during the conquest and founding of Mexico City.
- Highlights the contributions of Nahua women as soldiers, nurses, artists, writers, and political agents, as documented in the Florentine Codex.
- Demystifies misconceptions about women’s roles and emphasizes their active participation as mediators, educators, and influential figures in the hotel of New Spain.
- Examines the political agency and leadership of women in shaping the historical narrative of Mexico City’s founding, beyond their traditional portrayals.
- Provides an immersive cultural experience, combining guided exploration of key sites with insights into the artistic and culinary legacies of Nahua and Spanish colonial influences.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Objectives and Highlights
- Itinerary Details
- Accessibility and Policies
- Guided Tour Experience
- Exploring Templo Mayor
- Cultural Immersion
- Customer Testimonials
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Significance of the Florentine Codex in the Tour?
- How Do the Museum Stops Relate to the Role of Women in Colonial Mexico?
- Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Mexican Women During the Tour?
- What Type of Visual Aids or Multimedia Are Used to Enhance the Storytelling?
- Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for This Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Mexico City
- More Tour Reviews in Mexico City
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Mexico City we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview

This tour, titled "Heroines and Villains in the Foundation of New Spain," takes guests on a 3-hour journey through the historical roles of women in the conquest and founding of Mexico City.
Priced from €31.62 per person, it’s available in Spanish and English and is wheelchair accessible.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, the tour meets at the entrance of the Templo Mayor Museum.
Highlights include demystifying women’s roles beyond slaves or traitors, showcasing their contributions as mediators, artists, and educators, and featuring Nahua women as soldiers, nurses, writers, and painters in the Florentine Codex.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Mexico City.
Objectives and Highlights

The tour focuses on the role of women as active political subjects in the conquest and founding of Mexico City.
It demystifies women’s roles, moving beyond stereotypes of slaves, concubines, or traitors. Instead, the tour highlights women’s contributions as mediators, artists, and educators.
Participants will learn about the participation of Nahua women as soldiers, nurses, writers, and painters in the Florentine Codex.
Itinerary Details

Originating at the Templo Mayor Museum, the tour leads participants on a journey through the vibrant history of New Spain.
The guided excursion explores key sites, including the Centro Cultural de España, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Monte de Piedad Headquarters. Visitors will also enjoy a stop at the Dulcería de Celaya for local refreshments.
Notable highlights include:
- Delving into the Nahua women’s roles as soldiers, nurses, writers, and painters in the Florentine Codex
- Examining the contributions of women as mediators, artists, and educators during the conquest
- Demystifying the misconceptions surrounding women as slaves, concubines, or traitors
- Discovering the active political agency of women in the founding of Mexico City
Accessibility and Policies

Typically, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors of all abilities to participate. Plus, the tour offers a free cancellation policy, enabling guests to receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the event. To ensure a seamless experience, the tour has the following participant guidelines:
| Restriction | Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Children | 10+ years | Under 10 years |
| Pets | Assistance dogs | Other pets |
| Audio recording | – | Prohibited |
| Footwear | – | Bare feet |
Customers consistently praise the exceptional knowledge and engaging content provided by the specialized guides, making this tour a must-visit for those interested in the heroic and villainous women who shaped the foundation of New Spain.
More Great Tours NearbyGuided Tour Experience

Embarking on this captivating tour, visitors are immersed in the rich historical narratives surrounding the pivotal roles women played in the conquest and hotel of Mexico City.
The specialized guide expertly navigates participants through key sites, such as the Templo Mayor, the Centro Cultural de España, and the Treasury Museum, shedding light on the contributions of Nahua women as soldiers, nurses, writers, and painters.
The tour’s highlights include:
- Demystifying the stereotypical portrayals of women as passive victims or traitors
- Celebrating their roles as mediators, artists, and educators
- Exploring the Florentine Codex‘s documentation of women’s active participation in the foundational events
- Savoring local delicacies and immersing in the cultural ambiance of New Spain’s legacy.
Exploring Templo Mayor

The tour begins with a guided exploration of the iconic Templo Mayor, the sacred heart of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan.
Visitors explore the ruins of this once-grand pyramid, learning about its significance in the founding of Mexico City. The guide shares stories of Nahua women who played pivotal roles, from soldiers and nurses to artists and writers documented in the Florentine Codex.
Participants gain a deeper understanding of how women were active political subjects, defying traditional portrayals as passive victims or traitors.
This in-depth look at the Templo Mayor sets the stage for uncovering the complex, multifaceted contributions of women in the conquest and hotel of New Spain.
Cultural Immersion

After exploring the historical significance of the Templo Mayor, the tour shifts focus to immersing participants in the cultural richness of New Spain.
Visitors explore the cosmopolitan atmosphere of colonial Mexico City, encountering:
- Ornate Spanish colonial architecture that blends indigenous and European influences.
- Vibrant local markets brimming with traditional crafts, foods, and bustling energy.
- Galleries showcasing the artistic brilliance of Nahua painters, scribes, and artisans.
- Interactions with knowledgeable guides who bring to life the complex narrative of women’s roles in the founding of the city.
This multifaceted cultural experience offers a deeper understanding of the diverse heritage that shaped the foundations of New Spain.
Customer Testimonials

Glowing testimonials from past participants underscore the tour’s captivating exploration of the heroines and villains who shaped the foundation of New Spain.
Customers praise the guide’s exceptional knowledge and passion, describing the experience as "eye-opening" and "deeply insightful."
One reviewer noted, "This tour peeled back the veil on women’s roles, revealing their profound contributions as mediators, artists, and educators."
Others highlight the tour’s ability to "demystify the stereotypes" and "bring these historical figures to life."
Consistently, participants express appreciation for the opportunity to gain a more nuanced understanding of this pivotal period in Mexican history.
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Significance of the Florentine Codex in the Tour?
The Florentine Codex highlights the participation of Nahua women as soldiers, nurses, writers, and painters during the conquest of Mexico. This codex provides important insights into women’s roles and contributions in the founding of New Spain.
How Do the Museum Stops Relate to the Role of Women in Colonial Mexico?
The museum stops highlight women’s contributions as mediators, artists, and educators during the conquest and founding of Mexico City. The Florentine Codex showcases Nahua women’s roles as soldiers, nurses, writers, and painters.
Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Mexican Women During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t explicitly include opportunities to interact with local Mexican women. However, the stops at cultural centers and museums may provide insights into women’s roles during colonial times and allow participants to learn from the exhibits and guides.
What Type of Visual Aids or Multimedia Are Used to Enhance the Storytelling?
The tour utilizes a Vox audio system to provide clear narration. Plus, it features visits to historical sites and museums, allowing participants to engage with relevant artifacts and visual aids that enhance the storytelling experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t mention any discounts or package deals. It’s priced from €31.62 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour duration is 3 hours and it’s offered in Spanish and English.
Heroines and Villains in the Foundation of New Spain
“Este recorrido fue una de las actividades más interesantes que he realizado en mucho tiempo. El nivel de conocimientos de la guía es verdaderamen…”
Recap
The "Heroines and Villains in the Foundation of New Spain" tour offers a captivating exploration of women’s pivotal roles during the conquest of Mexico City. Participants explore the historical narratives, challenging stereotypes and discovering the political agency of Nahua women. The journey through significant sites, like the Templo Mayor Museum, provides insights into women’s multifaceted involvement in shaping New Spain’s history, offering a unique culture experience.
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