The massive outdoor space at Casa del Marino. Photo courtesy of Cultura.

[History with thanks to Mazatlán Historical Port book, précis by Sheila Madsen, April 2025].

[ Update: Casa del Marino will be closed until August 20, 2026] La Casa del Marino, The Seaman’s House, was a project promoted by the International Labour Organization, and President Manuel Avila Camacho inaugurated it on June 1, 1946. It is distinguished by a polished anchor, a symbol of a resting place and refuge for merchant sailors, regardless of their nationality, race or religion. Its other memorable monument is a canon overlooking the sea, since 1892, known as Fuerte 31 de marzo. The plaque honours the heroic fighters of the battle against the Cordelière frigate – commemorating the battle of President Juárez against the French in 1864. True, the cannon watches over the bay, but it was installed 28 years after the battle against the French!

For various reasons over the years, Casa del Marino closed and only opened for a few private events. During the 70 plus years, the building succumbed to rust and humidity. Around 2021, there was a push from the mayor of Mazatlan to rebuild Casa del Marino and the mayor eventually obtained permission from all parties involved. It had to be built exactly the same as the original house obviously with modern equipment. It was inaugurated in October 14, 2024. With the remodelling the architects converted it into a Maritime Museum and a Cultural Center, enjoying telling stories of the first deep-sea port in the Mexican Pacific. It is now open for events, many are free.

[Casa del Marino is located on the Malecon, ocean-side, two blocks north of Zaragoza. It is open every day from 10 am. to 4 pm. People often confuse the age of the cannon with the age of the building.]

Photo courtesy of MazdelPuerto.