The Former City Hall Building occupies the western half of the southern sidewalk of the Zócalo, between 20 de Noviembre Avenue and Cinco de Febrero Street. 

Since Hernán Cortés ordered the city's layout, this place was designated for the City Hall of Mexico City. 

The original houses built in the 16th century were replaced in 1619 by a spacious building that also housed the residences of some of its officials. This building burned down during the 1692 riot when the people revolted against the authorities due to the high price of corn. It was rebuilt between 1720 and 1724. Few modifications were made during the 19th century. In 1909, it was repaired and redecorated in a neocolonial style. 

Under the exterior arches, painted with talavera tiles, one can appreciate the shields that the city has had since the foundation of the first City Hall located in Coyoacán.