As the capital of Mexico, Mexico City boasts a large number of diverse attractions that draw plenty of visitors each year. The place has a rich cultural history with many unique sites representing the city’s history. There are many different facts about Mexico City that can make your traveling experience more fun.
Historical Facts About Mexico City
Mexico has an incredibly long history that stretches way back to even the Aztech and Mayans. Here are some ancient things Mexico City is known for.
It Has The Oldest Institution Of Higher Education In Mexico
The Royal and Pontifical University was founded in 1551, making it one of the oldest educational institutes. The place was shut down in 1867 when the city came under dictatorship.
However, it was re-opened later as the National Autonomous University of Mexico and continues to operate in Mexico City. Today, it is considered one of the top research universities in the region. The buildings have very interesting designs, which are worth checking out.
It Has The Oldest Printing Press In The North American Region
One of the fun facts about Mexico City is that it was a major literature hub during the old times. The first printing press was also used in this city in 1539. This place is still open and operates as an exhibit for the public.
You can visit it on all days except Sunday and Monday. It is open from 10 am to 6 pm in Mexico City.
It Is The Oldest North American City
There are many interesting facts about Mexico City that will intrigue you, such as the city’s age. It was founded in 1521 (as a municipality), making it more ancient than Saint Augustine. And if you count in the actual ancient roots of its Tenochtitlán days, it goes even further back to 1325.
Many people have a misconception that Saint Augustine is the older of the two; however, that is not correct. It was the Spaniards who built Mexico City. Consequently, you will find many famous Mexican landmarks in and around the city region.
The City Has A Large Number Of Museums
Mexico City is a major hub of art and culture, which is why it has more than 150 museums. You can visit different art galleries if you are interested in seeing unique paintings and exhibits. Anthropology museums are also present in this city.
The Blue House is one of the top things Mexico is known for. It is the house and art museum of the famous Frida Kahlo.
Cultural Facts About Mexico City
One of the biggest draws of Mexico is undoubtedly its passionate culture. Here are some interesting cultural facts about Mexico and its bustling capital.
Tacos Are Most Famous In Mexico City
Even if you are someone who knows very little about Mexico City, you can probably still guess that people love to eat soft or crispy tacos whenever they go out. The traditional dish includes a tortilla shell, which is filled with vegetables and meat.
Meanwhile, the national dish of Mexico is mole poblano. This item originated around the 17th century, and many Mexican households are fond of it.
It Has Three Types Of Architecture
You can see three different eras of Mexico’s history with the same number of unique architecture.
The ruins of Templo Mayor will help you learn more about the Aztec history. You will also see other structures, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, that will offer you information on the Spaniards’ rule. And, of course, you can observe the Mestizo vibe of independent Mexico today.
The Square of Three Cultures is a famous site that many art and history lovers visit in Mexico City.
The Metropolitan Cathedral Has A Black Christ
One of the interesting facts about Mexico City is that people believe in the healing powers of El Cristo Negro. Remember, it is common to come across a Black Christ structure in Latin America.
Some people believed that a sculptor created the statue to stand against discrimination. The first Black Christ statue is believed to be created in the 17th century.
Simple Facts About Mexico City For Kids
There are some intriguing facts about Mexico City that can pique the interest of young ones.
The City Is On An Artificial Island
Mexico City was built in the center of Lake Texcoco, which was on a man-made island. This was the largest lake during the old times in that region, so the Aztecs decided to use it to create their capital. The older name of this city is Tenochtitlan.
There Is An Active Volcano Near The City
One of the top Mexico City facts is that El Popo is within its vicinity. This is the most active volcano in the entire country and erupted recently in 2020. People are allowed to visit the site, but you must be careful because of its activity.
The best thing is that this place is only a day’s trip away from Mexico City, making it easy for travelers to include it in their itinerary.
It Is The First City To Hold The World Cup Multiple TimesÂ
Mexico City is the world’s first place to hold the Football World Cup tournament twice. The first game was held in 1970, which gave a huge boost to Mexico’s tourism sector.
The next tournament was held in 1986. Another great news is that FIFA 2026 World Cup will also happen in Mexico, so the city may get a chance to host the game for the third time. Three countries – the United States, Mexico, and Canada are co-hosting the internationally acclaimed tournament.
Useful Mexico City Facts For Travelers
Here are some fun facts about Mexico City that can also be helpful when planning a trip.
The City Has A High Number Of Taxis
Getting around in Mexico City is one of the easiest tasks because of a taxi fleet of 140,000 taxis. This makes the population of these vehicles in Mexico the highest in the world. Another great thing is that fare rates in Mexico City are also cheaper than in other parts of the globe.
There is also a rather convenient metro system that you can take advantage of.
World’s Largest Ice Rink Is Here
An ice rink was installed in the city’s main square in 2019. The Eco-Rink has an area of 43,000 square feet. The Rideau Canal Skateway in Canada is the world’s largest natural ice rink, whereas Eco Rink is manmade.
It is also more environmentally friendly due to low carbon dioxide emissions. The city also saves 49,000 gallons of water through this ice rink, making it a perfect visit for travelers who prefer to be more climate-conscious.
Many Music Festivals Happen Here
Mexicans love a good party. There are plenty of music festivals in this city occurring throughout the year, with the key event happening on 22nd November annually.
The Saint Cecilia music festival is hosted every year to honor the patron saint of musicians. It usually happens in the popular Mariachi square and will offer you an exciting night of fun, dance, music, and drinks.
It Has Subways For Women And Children Only
One of the encouraging facts about Mexico City is that the government is working actively to reduce harassment cases and crime rates. This is why subway cabins have been reserved for females only, which provides a safer passage. There are separate carriages for different genders.
You will also encounter pink buses, which only allow females. Mexico City is progressing towards a better environment for solo female travelers.
Common Facts About Mexico City
The City Is Sinking Gradually
Every year, at least 40 cm of this city sinks below sea level due to the subsidence phenomenon. One of the main reasons behind this troubling Mexico City fact is that the city was originally built on a lake.
Scientists have stated that this sinking rate is alarming. The worst part is that the new changes are irreversible, so the city will continue to sink over the years.
There Is A Forest Park In The City
There are many interesting facts about Mexico City, but this one will intrigue you the most. Chapultepec Park is the largest park in the Western Hemisphere. It spans a huge area of 1,695 meters, making it two times bigger than Central Park in New York.
You can find various attractions such as a castle, zoo, and different museums within this vast forest park.
A Monarch Butterfly Reserve In The City Is A UNESCO Heritage Site
Mexico City is known for Monarch Butterfly migration, so it’s perhaps not surprising to find a reserve for this species in the region. The main reason behind its high status is that people have a spiritual attachment to these butterflies. This species has also been classified as endangered by the IUCN.
Other Interesting Facts About Mexico City
The Angel Of Independence Has Real GoldÂ
There are some famous statues all over the world. The Statue of Liberty in America, the Mermaid Statue in Denmark, and Christ The Redeemer in Brazil, to name a few.
One of the most popular statues in Mexico is located in Mexico City, and it is called the Angel Of Independence. It is a commemorative statue that was erected in 1910, hundred years after the Mexican War Of Independence.
The statue is made of Bronze, but what many people might not know is that it is covered with real 24-karat gold.
It Was Nicknamed The Palace City
The National Palace, Postal Palace, and Azulejos House are some of the many palaces you will find in Mexico City. This is in the 18th century, a German explorer gave this city the unique nickname of Palace City.
You Can Still See The Old Aztec Canal System In Xochimilco
Mexico City used to be in the center of a lake in earlier times, which is why canals were used to connect it to other land regions. The lake drained with time, and most of the canals no longer remain. However, you can still observe a part of the system by visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City.
Discovering More Fun Facts About Mexico City
These are some of the exciting facts about Mexico City but doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of its long evolution.
Aztecs were the earliest settlers of this city, which is why many archeological-related sites will help you learn about their culture. Although it has a rather international scene, traditional Mexican food is well-loved in the city.
Be prepared for an adventure of deep history, good food, and immense fun when you visit. You are sure to uncover even more interesting Mexico City facts yourself.
