Source: WTL photo© taken on site in Cuernavaca.
Image: This is the old central square (el zócalo) in the city's historical district (centro histórico). The view is from the second floor (la primera planta) of the Palacio de Cortés, which you will see in Cortés #6. The photo is shot from the east side of the square. Across the square you see the Palacio de Gobierno (government building).
Comments: In this very old conquest-period colonial city, Cortés's palace (the power center) was built on the Spanish urban plan city square, whereas the church (la cathedral)—which you will see in Cortés # 13, #14, #15—was built a few blocks away. This is the only city in Mexico in which there is not a religious building on the zócalo or plaza mayor. In the central square you see ruins, artisans' booths, and the usual groomed park, all vying for space and attention. The park is called the Jardín Juárez for the 19th century president who defeated the French. Around the gazebo in the park are mariachi bands playing Mexican traditional music especially in the evening.
Embedded Images: For a few more views of downtown Cuernavaca, see: => Cuernavaca, 5a; => Cuernavaca, 5b; => Cuernavaca, 5c; => Cuernavaca, 5d. => Cuernavaca, 5e; and => Cuernavaca, 5f.