The two buildings on the south side of the Zócalo may look similar with their stately arcades and handsome carved window frames, but the Ayuntamiento (the one on the right) predates its twin by over 400 years. The mayor has his office there, while various city departments occupy the east building. Recently restored and opened for public viewing, the grand Salón de Cabildos , on the upper level of the Ayuntamiento, was the place where the city council traditionally convened to settle local disputes. The entry hall contains a gallery of portraits of all 62 Spanish viceroys.
