Field Trip # 37: Cultural Mexico

Here is a place that I have walked by on a regular basis and never have gone in during all the years that I lived in Adams Morgan. But so is life, we don't tap into the richness around us unless we are pushed and I guess that is the point of this blog.

So as I was riding home today I stopped in to the Mexican Cultural Institute and I was AMAZED by how cool this place was. It also would be a great place to bring a group of students.

As you walk in you will notice the amazing murals that line the walls of the grand staircase. Roberto Cueva del Rio painted a series of murals that depict Mexican history, culture, geography, progress and independence. Each mural lines a staircase so they rise the entire height of this four story building. It would be great to prep students about each mural and also have them investigate the symbols and stories related to each mural as they walk up the stairs. I really believe that each level could be at least a 20 minute discussion or longer lesson if you create activities to connect to the imagery.

But the murals are only part of what makes this place so beautiful. The mansion in which the Mexican Cultural Institute is housed was bought in 1921 and decorated to reflect the grandeur and culural richness of old Mexico. You will find Talevera adorning a lightfilled kitchen area that has a glass ceiling. There are also other rooms that hint of colonial influences in painting and in furnishing. It is truly a beautiful building and definitely worth checking out even if you can't manage to bring a group of students here.



So what should you do once you have visited the Cultural Institute? Why not grab a bite to eat at Mixtec in Adams Morgan. This is a great little place that can house pretty big groups. You have a full Mexican menu along with a wide selection of Tortas which could be an economical lunch for around $10 each. Throw in a bottle of Jaritos and you are set to recap all that you learned at the Cultural Institute earlier that day. Always remember to contact restaurants before to make sure that all is ready for you. Enjoy!



Contact Info:
Mexican Cultural Institute
2829 16th Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20009-4204
(202) 728-1628
For group tours ask for Pilar Orozco


Mixtec Restaurant
1792 Columbia Road NW
Washington, DC 20009-2805 -
(202) 332-1011