City Hall of Chihuahua facts for kids
The City Hall of Chihuahua is an important building in Chihuahua City, Mexico. It was built a long time ago, in the early 1900s. You can find it right in front of the Plaza de Armas (a main square) and the beautiful Cathedral of Chihuahua.
This building is where the city's government works. It holds the office of the mayor of Chihuahua, who is like the city's boss. It also has the City Council, which is a group of people who make decisions for the city. Their special meeting room, called a salon, is very interesting to see. Many people think the City Hall is one of the most important landmarks in the center of Chihuahua City.
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What is the History of Chihuahua City Hall?
From Royal House to Modern City Hall
The story of the City Hall began way back in 1721. That's when a building called the Royal House was first built. It was made to be the home for local leaders when Spain ruled Mexico. People often called this old building the Portals of the Municipality.
Eventually, the old Spanish building was taken down. At the start of the 1900s, work began on a brand new office building for the city.
Who Built the City Hall?
Architects John White and Alfredo Giles were in charge of designing the new City Hall. The building was officially opened on October 4, 1907. Don Enrique Creel, who was the governor of Chihuahua at the time, led the opening ceremony.
Since then, the building has always been used for the city's offices. In 2005, it had some updates and repairs. One big change was that the decorations near the roof were painted a light brown color instead of green.
What Does Chihuahua City Hall Look Like?
A Classic Mexican Design
The City Hall is a great example of Mexican architecture from the time when Porfirio Díaz was president. This style is called Neoclassicism. It was inspired by French 'Beaux Artes' and other European styles that were popular around 1900.
The building has two main floors. The first floor has open spaces that can be used for art shows or special events.
Inside the City Council Salon
One of the most interesting parts of the building is the City Council salon. This room is decorated in a grand, almost royal style. It has large mirrors and tall, fancy columns called Corinthian columns.
You can also see three beautiful stained-glass windows in the salon. These windows show important parts of the city's history and economy. They also feature the City's Coat of Arms.
There's a special honorary seat in the salon for President Benito Juárez. He lived in this building with his team from 1864 to 1866. This was during a time when French forces were in Mexico. He was given this special honor during his stay.
Images for kids
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Honorary seat for the permanent member of the city council, President Benito Juarez.
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Corinthian columns in the City Council salon.
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Another view of the salon showing the Council Table.
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Plaque depicting a message by Juarez concerning his departure from 'this loyal city'.
See also
In Spanish: Palacio Municipal de Chihuahua para niños
