Roma (not the one in Italia)

Just a couple blocks away from my apartment is the section of Mexico City which is known as Roma.  It is divided into two "colonias" (neighborhoods), Roma Norte and Roma Sur (North and South).  In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Roma Norte was one of the most fashionable areas of the city.  Many of the beautiful old homes of that era are still standing.  

The principal street of the neighborhood, Avenida Alvaro Obregón,  was laid out with a tree-lined pedestrian walkway in the center.  The walkway is adorned with numerous fountains and statues of an ancient Greek and Roman theme.

 

 By the 1940s the neighborhood began to fall into decline as wealthy families left Roma for newer districts.  The 1985 earthquake destroyed many buildings and resulted in even further deterioration of the neighborhood.

Although the neighborhood still has its share of shabby and blighted buildings, in recent years Roma Norte has seen a renaissance and is becoming gentrified.  Many of the old mansions have been restored and now are cultural centers, art galleries or restaurants.  Upscale apartment buildings are being constructed, and there is even a Sheraton Hotel along Avenida Alvaro Obregón.  The neighborhood is now considered one of the trendiest areas for dining.  Here you will find everything from "taquerías" to "haute cuisine".