PARTENON ZIHUATANEJO

Perched on a hill overlooking the azure bay of Zihuatanejo, stands one of the most unusual buildings on this part of the coast — the Parthenon of Zihuatanejo. This grand cultural center, built in a Greco-Roman style, is striking in its scale and unusual history. Spanning 20,000 square meters, the building is adorned with 57 massive columns and resembles an ancient temple transported to the tropics of sunny Mexico.

The interiors of the center abound with marble, exquisite wrought iron, and numerous replicas of classical statues — from David to Apollo. Once a luxurious private residence with mirrored ceilings and exotic animals, the site has found new life after decades of neglect. In early 2025, it opened to the public as a modern art space, where ancient aesthetics meet contemporary Mexican art.

Today, the Parthenon is not just a monument to postmodern architecture, but also the port's premier viewpoint. Visitors are drawn here not only by cultural exhibitions but also by the panoramic views of the bay and La Ropa beach that open from its terraces. This place has become a true symbol of transformation and a popular spot for atmospheric photo shoots.

To check the current schedule of events and exhibitions at the Parthenon of Zihuatanejo in Zihuatanejo, you can use the official resources and contact details.

Today, the Parthenon invites guests to immerse themselves in the world of art and culture. A modern stage has been set up on the site of the former swimming pool, capable of accommodating up to 700 spectators — regularly hosting concerts, theatrical productions, and open-air performances. The upper levels of the building have been transformed into spacious galleries where you can discover the work of local artists and photographers.

Fans of aesthetics will find endless creative inspiration here: marble statues of gods, massive Ionic columns, and restored 40-year-old murals provide a magnificent backdrop for photography. Be sure to stop by Majala Cafe, located in the former pool house — it’s the perfect place for a light snack with an ocean view.

For those seeking peace, the center's terraces offer a comfortable place to relax. Electric curtains have been installed to adjust the lighting, making the Parthenon an excellent spot for watching sunsets. Special events and temporary exhibitions are often held in the center's five halls, ensuring every visit can bring new discoveries in the region's architecture and history.

Reaching this architectural gem in Zihuatanejo is easy, as it is located on a hill overlooking the famous bay. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or a rental car — the trip from La Ropa beach along the scenic Escénica La Ropa road takes no more than 10–15 minutes.

If you are coming from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), the drive will take about 20–30 minutes. For budget-conscious travelers, there is an option to take a local bus to La Ropa beach, though keep in mind that you will need to walk about 1 kilometer uphill from the stop.

For precise navigation, it is recommended to use coordinates or map your route via Google Maps. Remember that the climb is quite steep, so in hot weather, traveling by vehicle will be much more comfortable than walking. There is parking available for visitors on-site.

The history of this place reads like a movie script. The Parthenon of Zihuatanejo was built in the late 1970s by Arturo Durazo Moreno, the notorious chief of police in Mexico City. Approximately 700 million pesos were spent on the construction of this luxury residence, with tons of marble and stone used to recreate the atmosphere of ancient Olympus.

In its heyday, the mansion was a symbol of excess: it housed a nightclub reminiscent of the legendary Studio 54, bedrooms with mirrored ceilings, and even enclosures for exotic lions and tigers. However, following Durazo's arrest in the early 1980s, the building was abandoned. For decades, it stood in ruins, attracting only urban explorers and street artists who covered the walls with graffiti.

For a long time, the Parthenon's fate remained uncertain until authorities initiated a major renovation in 2022, costing 15 million pesos. The project aimed to transform a site with a dark past into a space for a bright cultural future, accessible to every resident and tourist.

The grand opening of the renovated cultural center took place at the end of 2024. Now, instead of private parties, this historical location in Mexico hosts concerts and exhibitions, while the former swimming pool has become a modern open-air stage, symbolizing the mansion's complete transformation.

To take a leisurely tour of all levels of the cultural center, it usually takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to explore the architectural details, examine the numerous statues, and visit the current exhibitions in the upper-floor galleries.

If a concert is scheduled on the day of your visit, or if you decide to stop by Majala Cafe for a coffee with panoramic views of the bay, it’s worth setting aside about 3–4 hours. The most vivid impressions and best photos are usually captured around sunset, when the soft light highlights the whiteness of the columns.

The cultural center welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday. The complex's doors are open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, allowing you to plan your visit for either the morning or later in the evening to catch the sunset.

Please note that Monday is a day off — the site is closed to visitors at this time. It is recommended to arrive an hour or an hour and a half before closing to ensure you have enough time to see all the exhibits without rushing.

After immersing yourself in the history and architecture of the Parthenon, it's worth spending some time visiting other interesting locations nearby. Exploring the surroundings of La Ropa beach will allow you to complement your day with culinary experiences and relaxation by the coast.

Below are the sites located within walking distance or a short drive from the cultural center: