The National Palace, commissioned by Hernan Cortes, contains the federal treasury and the national archives. It used to house the offices of the Mexican president. The main reason to go inside is to see some of Diego Rivera's best-known murals, colorful depictions of Mexico City's long history from before the Spanish conquest to the 20th century. To do so, go to the main portal and show some form of picture ID to the guards. Rivera was a communist and often depicted the cruelties suffered by the peasants at the hands of the conquistadors and corrupt politicians. Daily 9 am-6 pm. Free. Avenida Pino Suarez (facing the Zocalo), Centro Historico, Mexico City.
