18th Century Historic Estate — “El Refugio”, Coyoacan

An extraordinary 18th-century historic estate officially listed by the National Institute of Anthropology and History, El Refugio preserves its original 30-cm stone walls, dramatic double and triple-height brick ceilings with exposed wooden beams, multiple terraces and interior courtyards, galleries, water features, an aviary, and a lush garden filled with ash and jacaranda trees as well as an exceptional collection of fruit trees including royal lemon, loquat, fig, mamey, avocado, guava, and more. True to its name, this remarkable property offers a serene natural sanctuary despite its privileged location within one of Mexico City’s most vibrant artistic, cultural, and culinary districts. The estate is also known as a legendary gathering place once frequented by cultural icons, including Frida Kahlo.

While the property requires renovations to restore its full potential. Both structures were meticulously restored in 2015 and 2020 and updated with modern comforts that include radiator heating, PVC double-glazed windows, solar panels that power the entire property, an automatic gate, renewed electrical and plumbing systems, irrigation, and a generous service area. El Refugio is a rare historic jewel in the heart of Coyoacán, located only one block from Viveros Forest and steps from major access roads, the metro, and a variety of cultural landmarks.

The property is located at the entrance of the iconic 16th-century Francisco Sosa Street, considered the oldest road in Mexico City. It sits only steps from the city’s only open-air stretch of the Magdalena River and its historic stone bridge that leads into Coyoacán. The 25-meter frontage, four grand windows, and one of the street’s oldest original colonial wooden doors create a commanding architectural presence that is exceptionally rare in the neighborhood.

Inside, the main residence welcomes you with a grand reception hall, formal living and dining rooms, a spacious kitchen with an adjoining breakfast room or studio, a powder room, and a generous central foyer crowned by a dome that connects to four bedrooms, two of them with en-suite bathtubs. In the early 20th century, the renowned architect and art critic Justino Fernández redesigned part of the home and added an impressive second-floor loft with Catalan-vaulted ceilings. The loft is filled with natural light from windows facing all directions and includes two adjoining rooms ideal as dressing areas as well as a large bathroom with bathtub. This area works beautifully as a principal suite or an artist’s studio.

A second independent structure offers three bedrooms, a full bathroom, a well-defined kitchen, and a fireplace. This building was once used as a discreet private cantina visited by notable figures from Mexico’s artistic scene, adding further historical interest and versatility to the estate.

Property Features
- 18th-century officially listed historic estate (INAH)
- 30-cm stone walls
- Double and triple-height brick ceilings with wooden beams
- Multiple terraces and interior courtyards
- Lush garden with jacarandas, ash trees & diverse fruit trees
- Two fully independent structures
- Historic 25-meter street frontage on Francisco Sosa
- Original colonial gate
- Loft with Catalan vault & panoramic light
- Artist-renovated and architecturally significant upgrades
- Fully restored (2015 & 2020)
- Aviary

Amenities
- Solar panels powering entire property
- Automatic gate
- Double-glazed PVC windows (thermal & acoustic insulation)
- Radiator heating system with automated controls
- Irrigation system with independent cistern
- Covered triple-height parking
- Laundry and service quarters (3 rooms + full bath + kitchenette)
- Equipped kitchens
- Fireplace
- Multiple terraces & gardens
- Independent entrances for both residences