Carefully balancing Monterrey’s industrial past with its technological future, this museum offers intriguing insights into one of Mexico’s major industries. The Horno 3 Steel Museum is an architectural marvel, praised by magazines and fellow architects from around the world. Orchestrated between 2005 and 2007, the project saw an abandoned blast furnace converted into a 29,528-square-foot (9,000-square-meter) exhibition space. Visit the museum to learn about Mexico’s steel industry and discover the exciting innovations taking place within the nation’s current industrial and technological sectors.
While some 230 feet (70 meters) of the blast furnace looms over Monterey, most of the Horno 3 Steel Museum is housed beneath the ground. Enter the main foyer to see the impressive steel staircase that dominates the center of the structure. Descend into the museum via a 656-foot (199-meter) elevator shaft to explore the permanent exhibits.
The Horno 3 Steel Museum focuses on both Monterrey’s industrial history as well as the science, technology and innovation that has helped bring the city into the 21st century. See an enormous coal mine or watch an explosion in the iron open pit mine. Make your way to the old Cast Hall for a pyrotechnic show, which recreates the actions of the blast furnace. Climb to the top of the steel structure for panoramic views of Monterrey and the distinct shape of the Cerro de la Silla (Saddle Hill) in the distance.
The Horno 3 Steel Museum is located within Fundidora Parque on the bank of the Rio Santa Catarina. Reach the museum by bus or on foot from most central locations. There is some metered street parking available around the park. The museum is closed on Mondays and an admission fee applies.