Zócalo of Veracruz
Zócalo de Veracruz (Plaza de la Constitución)
A palm-lined square also known as the Plaza de Armas, where marimba music and danzón dancing fill the evening air; it is the heart of the city.
The Zócalo (also called the Plaza de Armas or Plaza de la Constitución) is surrounded by a cathedral, the colonial city hall, and arcaded cafés and bars, with a cast-iron kiosk and fountain at its centre. After dusk, marimba bands and street musicians perform jarocho music in turn. On weekend evenings (usually Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays), the square hosts 'Danzón Nights,' when elegant pairs of local older residents dance, and visitors are welcome to join. Sitting under the arcades with a beer or coconut water and watching the crowds is the best way to experience Veracruz's unhurried pace.
Opening hours
All day; dance performances mostly in the evening
Nearby sights
- Cathedral of Veracruz
- Naval Museum of Mexico
- Gran Café de la Parroquia
- Venustiano Carranza Lighthouse
- Baluarte de Santiago
- Malecón of Veracruz
- San Juan de Ulúa
- Veracruz Aquarium