Item 3D.21 - Mexico Pavilion

1 slide photograph.

Exterior view photograph. Mexican Pavilion exterior (lot C-465). Striking and original in its appearance, the two storey Mexican pavilion drew architectural inspiration from Aztec amphitheatres and decorative inspiration from Mexican antiquity. A 42' high Rufino Tamayo mural dominated the entrance space as it told the story of the Mexican man's journey to liberation. A succession of halls took visitors on a journey through Mexican history and culture. The smaller first hall showcased photographs of Mexican life past and present. Three adjacent halls walked one through the story of war. Frescos portrayed the process from selection to battle to victory. The largest hall featured models and artifacts from historic Mexican civilizations such as the Mayans, Toltecs and Aztecs. Upon leaving the Pavilion one could hear the trumpets and guitars from Los Mariachis restaurant inviting visitors to come and enjoy the Mexican cuisine. Multi-hexagonal plan, with a "5-winged shell" above one main exhibition area. Tubular aluminum (triodetic structure of Mexico) and plywood. (S:100' x 200' --- A: 20000 sq. ft. --- H: 70' (shell))