It is located in the La Esmeralda building, named so because in the late 19th century it housed the jewelry store La Esmeralda Hauser-Zivy and Company.

Throughout the 20th century, the building had various uses until it became a museum.

It exhibits over 12,000 objects such as photographs, miniatures, models, drawings, and cartoons depicting the history of contemporary Mexico, adorned with the wonderful commentary of the famous writer Carlos Monsiváis.

Upstairs, there is a terrace with a pleasant café where you can enjoy the Historic Center from above.