History

One of the most beautiful plazas in America, is called "Manuel Tolsa" and is located in the Historic Center City of Mexico. The name is in homage to the great sculptor and architect, author of the superb equestrian statue known as "El Caballito", and is right in front of the "Palacio de Minería" a wonderful example of neoclassical. Also adorning the square in the old Palace of Communications, -which today houses the National Art Museum-, the imposing "Palacio de Correos" and the Museum of the Army and Navy, which was the temple of "Betlemitas", a beautiful baroque building.

The history of this place dates back to Pre Hispanic times, and is located in what was the famous road of Tlacopam, where the Spanish fled on the day of defeat known as the "Sad Night" now known as Tacuba.

During the viceroyalty, several religious hospitals settled here: "Betlemitas", "Terceros" which belong to the Franciscans and the "San Andrés", to the Jesuits. The latter was founded in 1626 as a church. After a few years the buildings deteriorated to the point they had to be abandoned. In 1676, with funds provided by the captain Andres Tapia the building was reopened as a school and a temple, but now under the title of "San Andrés". In the adjacent property in 1751, an exercise house was built, with the title of "Ara Coeli."

After the Jesuits were expelled, both buildings were converted into hospital.

In the early XXth century, the remains were demolished to build the Palace of Communications.

The beautiful building of the exercise house, which was part of the San Andrés Hospital was saved and was wonderfully integrated into the plaza. It is now Los Girasoles, the best Mexican cuisine in the Historic Center district.