Sheboldasik and I have been living in Mexico City for a month now. During this time, we managed to acclimatize and get used to a new country for us. In the near future we will go further to explore Mexico, but for now I will share my first impressions.
First discovery: English is spoken here in much the same way as in our villages and small towns. That is, the likelihood of a situation arising when you meet at least some English-speaking person is rapidly approaching zero. The only thing that saves me is Sheboldasik’s linguistic abilities, who constantly acts as a translator for me. So far I can only find out what it costs and the standard “hello - thank you - goodbye.” But finally, the phrase “hasta la vista” is now associated not only with the film “Terminator 2”.
Population
People are not super-friendly, but quite pleasant. If you smile at them, they respond in kind. But, apparently, they don’t really like Americans, but they constantly mistake us for them. At the restaurant where we go for lunch, the kitchen workers at first took turns peeking out to look at us, making their own assumptions about where we came from in large numbers. The French, Finns, Germans, Americans - they had many options. In the end, the ever-giggling waitress finally asked and realized that no one had guessed correctly. "Ruso?" - she asked perplexedly a couple of times. Who the Russians are and where this Russia is in general, apparently, remains a mystery to her, and we are unknown red-haired aliens. Well, at least not by Americans.
If you cross a brave, mustachioed conquistador with the pretty daughter of an Indian chief, you get a Mexican. This is exactly how they once happened. Externally, in my opinion, the mixture turned out so-so. There are beautiful nations: the Turks are full of handsome men, and Asia has cartoonishly pretty girls. In Mexico City we meet beautiful people very rarely. At first, with my camera, I opened the hunting season for fiery Mexican women with brown eyes and languid glances, but that was not the case. I didn’t meet a single one while walking with Pocahontas around the city. I asked her opinion about men - she said it was also something so-so. I'm already completely disappointed in this matter. The other day we went to the new glamorous areas of Mexico City - it turns out that all these handsome men and beauties all live in those parts. Well, there is a chance to photograph someone.
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Sights of Mexico City,
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Neighborhoods of Mexico City |
Latin America is a distinctive region of the globe, with a unique culture, traditions and history. Tourists are especially attracted to the sights and capital of Mexico - Mexico City.
Mexico City is a city of paradoxes. Here you can find the revelry and hospitality of the inhabitants, heavy air and unique architectural structures, a high crime rate and a mosaic of numerous cultures peacefully neighboring each other. This unique metropolis has a history of more than a thousand years, it has witnessed the change of several civilizations and today looks as majestic and beautiful as it did hundreds of years ago.
Among the many attractions of Mexico City, the legacy of the Spanish colonialists stands out: palaces, churches, haciendas and squares - all of this arouses keen interest among contemporaries.
Destroyed living people
The main attraction of Mexico City, undoubtedly, are the grandiose buildings built by the Indians and making up the large city-state with the temple complex of Tenochtitlan. Other religious Indian buildings have also been preserved, including Teotihuacan.
The area of Teotihuacan exceeds 20 square kilometers. This complex is located an hour's drive from the capital of Mexico and, according to Aztec legends, was built by the gods themselves. Tourists can see not only magnificent temples and palaces, but also grandiose pyramids, to which the Path of the Dead leads.
The Spanish conquistadors made every effort to destroy the local Indian tribes, and if this failed, to assimilate and Catholicize them. However, in some urban areas not only unique Aztec buildings are still preserved, but also Indian traditions continue to live on. One of them is Xochimilco. Back in the Middle Ages, a system of canals was dug here, which gradually turned into chinampas - a system of floating gardens. Now the complex is under the protection of UNESCO, and you can travel around it on small boats, somewhat reminiscent of Venetian gondolas and nowadays used exclusively for tourist purposes.
Other Indian centers that are a landmark of Mexico City are also worthy of tourists' attention. Tula, the Toltec capital, was one of the first major cities in the region. Trade and industry developed here, and there were also a large number of religious buildings. Modern tourists are attracted by huge stone sculptures called Atlanteans. These are images of warriors ready for battle who supported the vaults of the pyramid of Quetzalcoatl. Tourists are also interested in the ball stadium, which is larger in size than the largest sports complexes in the world.
The small town of Cholula is another place of pilgrimage for tourists. Everyone is attracted to the largest pyramid on the continent, the top of which is crowned by a church dedicated to the Holy Virgin. It was erected by the conquistadors after they expelled the Indians from the city. Somewhat later, a Franciscan monastery and a number of residential buildings appeared there, now of serious historical value. And from the top of the pyramid there is a stunning view of the surrounding area and extinct volcanoes.
Equally interesting is the “kingdom of flowers” - the unique and incredibly beautiful archaeological region of Xochicalco, in which, despite fires and destruction, stone temples have remained almost untouched, as well as the amazing beauty of the Acropolis.
Although the inquisitors sought to destroy any memory of the Indian gods, they failed to do so. In the late 1970s, not far from the cathedral, a stone was discovered on which sacrifices were made to the moon goddess, and then the huge Templo Mayor temple, one of the most grandiose buildings in the capital of Mexico. Previously, this place served as the center of the religious life of the Indians and looked like a pyramid with numerous stairs. The Spaniards destroyed the temple at the beginning of the 16th century, however, archaeologists, having done a tremendous job, managed to partially restore it and even open it for tourists.
Spanish soul Mexico City
The grandiose Zocalo Square, around which administrative buildings and the Cathedral are harmoniously located, appeared in the 17th century. and today it is considered the center of the historical part of the city. Even during the reign of the Aztecs, this place served as a venue for ceremonial events, and in later times - military and public holidays, crowded liturgies and even receptions of foreign delegations. Every year, 10 million tourists from around the world pass through the main square of Mexico City, considered the largest public square in the world.
Once upon a time, the territory of Mexico City was part of the Spanish colony of New Spain, and it was in the city that there was a palace in which representatives of the regional authorities met. The National Palace was built on the site of a palace complex where the Aztec Emperor Montezuma II reigned, and has been rebuilt several times over the past 300 years. It acquired its modern appearance only 100 years ago, when the third floor was created. The palace still hosts important presidential meetings, however, most of the building is open to tourists. Miguel Hidalgo's bell hangs above the entrance to the National Palace. It was his ringing that notified the Mexicans of the beginning of the uprising against the Spanish authorities, which made it possible to proclaim the independence of the state. And on the second floor there is a small exhibition hall, where frescoes by D. Rivera are presented, which reflect the most significant and touching episodes of the history of the state. More than a quarter of a century was spent creating these artistic masterpieces.
The castle with the exotic name Chapultepec is the only place in all of Latin America that belonged to royalty. It was the residence of Maximilian I, who spared no expense to create a unique building and invited not only local, but also European architects. Today, the original palace is home to 12 halls of the Museum of National History, including two dioramas that provide insight into the lives of wealthy 19th-century citizens. Around the palace there is the largest park on the continent, a kind of city “lungs”. Today it houses not only a zoo, but also several museums, as well as numerous fountains and sculptures.
The colonial period was a cruel time. From the 16th century On the territory of what is now Mexico, the Inquisition was established, at the hands of which hundreds of both real conspirators and completely innocent people fell. In the center of Mexico City, a magnificent three-story building still stands, which in the Middle Ages housed interrogation rooms for suspects, prisons and even courtrooms. After the abolition of the Inquisition at the beginning of the 19th century. The Museum of Mexican Medicine was opened in the building.
Plaza Tlaxcoque is part of the South Gate - an important historical center of the city. There is also a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, in which the remains of Cortes, the legendary conqueror of Mexico, were buried. Since the 1930s, this small church has been considered a historical landmark in Mexico City.
The pearl of architecture from the period of colonization of the region is considered to be the Casa de los Azulejos, an original building decorated with blue and white tiles. After reconstruction, a fashionable restaurant was opened in it, where you can go just to admire the original decor.
The area of Santo Domingo has no analogues in the world. After all, here, as in the days of the Spanish conquerors, clerks continue to work, helping illiterate townspeople draw up various documents. True, now they use typewriters instead of pen and ink, but this does not make their work any less unusual and interesting for tourists.
Mexico City: the city blessed by the Virgin Mary
The population of Mexico City is unusually religious; on weekends and holidays, it seems that the city is drowning in the ringing of numerous bells. The townspeople especially love the most ancient Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This building is of impressive size and plays an important administrative role - the Archdiocese of Mexico of the Roman Catholic branch is located here. The huge mass of the cathedral and its construction on a dried-up lake bed led to the fact that it was severely cracked and was in danger of extinction for a long time. The city authorities allocated a large sum for large-scale reconstruction, and now the building's foundation is protected from subsidence.
In the northern part of the city is the Basilica of Mary of Guadalupe, where the image of the Virgin, considered miraculous, is kept. According to legend, it was he who persuaded the Aztecs to accept Christianity, and therefore for local residents it is an important spiritual symbol. The basilica itself was erected on the spot where Mary appeared to a poor peasant, and the imprint of her face was preserved on his cloak. So many pilgrims flocked to the church that at the end of the 20th century. it had to be significantly expanded: the modern building can accommodate up to 20 thousand parishioners at a time.
Realm of exquisite culture
Residents of the capital of Mexico are peculiar, active and very subtle natures. Creativity is in the blood of these people.
The Palace of Fine Arts is the place where all important cultural events take place. Built on the border of the 19th and 20th centuries, it is the most grandiose building dedicated to state independence. The most talented performers performed on the stage of the Palace, and exhibitions of sculptures, photographs, and paintings were also held. The building itself has stunning decor - its walls are covered with works by the best Mexican craftsmen, which about 10 thousand tourists a week come to see. In addition, the palace houses the Museum of Architecture.
One of the most famous residents of Mexico City was Frida Kahlo. The colonial-style house in which this amazing Mexican artist lived has now been turned into a museum and numerous tourists come there not only to get acquainted with the beautiful paintings, but also to see the unique decorative elements in the ethnic style that decorate the building. The museum also displays Kahlo's clothing, jewelry and other belongings. By the way, tourists are interested not only in the artist’s house, but also in the area in which it is located. The cream of Mexican society, as well as prominent cultural figures, live here today; it was here that the film Frida was filmed, after which the interest of travelers in this area increased several times.
Another outstanding person who lived in Mexico City is Leon Trotsky. He spent his last days in a small house, and also found his final refuge - the grave of one of the socialist leaders and his wife are in the garden.
The city also has a huge anthropological museum with 11 ethnographic halls. It reflects the history of the settlement of America and the development of the continent, and also contains a lot of authentic items created by Indian craftsmen.
Home to at least 20 million people, Mexico City is one of the most unique cities on the Planet. Having begun to develop back in the 14th century, it was completely destroyed several times, but again and again rose from the ruins. In this unique place you can get acquainted with the history and culture of the Aztecs, conquistadors and modern inhabitants of the Latin world thanks to the Resort, as well as touch the unique traditions of South America. As many years ago, Mexico City continues to attract artists and cultural figures, as well as those who want to get to know the world's historical heritage!
Distant and mysterious Mexico, washed on both sides by oceans, has always attracted travelers with its mysteries. Its secrets, traces of ancient civilizations, pyramids and unforgettable authentic architecture are fascinating.
Nature with its mountains and volcanoes, golden beaches of the azure shores of the Caribbean Sea do not leave tourists from all over the world indifferent.
A trip to Mexico is a journey into a riot of colors and fun, to the homeland of tacos and tequila, enchiladas and quesadillas, huge sombreros and mariachi songs.
- At the end of February 7 days before the start of the fast takes place in the city of Mazatlan. This holiday is loved by both Mexicans and tourists. The event is bright, fiery and fun.
- In summer July 22 You can visit the Mexican state of Oaxaca. On this day, residents dress up in national costumes, prepare national dishes, and treat everyone to special tequila.
- in autumn Nov. 1 In Mexico, the entire country celebrates the remembrance of the dead and at the same time the celebration of Life.
- November 22 Mexico celebrates everywhere. The holiday is accompanied by a Mexican mariachi festival.
As in any other country in the world, a traveler can find a vacation here to suit his taste. But coming to the country just to lie down and fry your body in the sun would not be entirely correct, because Mexico is one of the most fascinating places on the planet.
Where to start the journey
Of course, from the capital, Mexico City, one of the five largest cities in the world.
Mexico City was founded by Aztec Indians who were engaged in hunting and fishing. Today, indigenous people make up only 20%, they include the Mayans, Mixtecs, Murepecha, Nahua, Masahua, Otomi, Zapotec. The remaining inhabitants of the city are mestizos, resulting from unions between Indians and Europeans. There are also a lot of people from the USA, Germany, France and Spain living in the city.
Mexico City amazes not only with its splendor, but also with the hospitality of its residents. On the streets you will be greeted with a bright and sincere smile, they will happily greet you and help you, show you the way and even give you a tour of the most unusual places in the city.
City attractions
Some of the main attractions of the city are museums:
- Museum of National Anthropology;
- national historical museum;
- National Palace - residence of the President of Mexico;
- cultural museum;
- Museum of Fine Arts;
- Chapel of Sagrario Metropolitano.
In general, Mexico City has more than 100 interesting museums.
When traveling around Mexico City, you cannot miss the central place of the capital - the Plaza de la Constitución or Zocalo, as the Mexicans call it. Every day, at exactly 18:00, a solemn ceremony of removing the flag takes place here. This is a fascinating and grandiose performance. After all, the Mexican flag that flutters in the wind is very impressive in size.
Various celebrations and concerts are constantly held on the square, where stars not only from Mexico, but also from other countries perform. And local residents, dressed in Indian costumes, dance folk dances to the sound of drums. On special days, fairs and bazaars pitch their tents on the square, attracting everyone around.
Alameda Central Park - an iconic place of the city
Another iconic point on the map of the capital is Alameda Central Park. Thousands of stories and millions of people passed through it. Alameda Central is a meeting place for city residents, although this was not always the case. In the 16th century, after the conquest of Tenochtitlan, only high-ranking Spaniards could relax in this wonderful place, making it the first park in Latin America. By 1700, everything had changed, and the doors of the park were opened to everyone. Each part of the park shows how the morals and views of residents, politics and art changed.
The Mexican Revolution plunged Alameda Central into long years of oblivion and decline, but today the park welcomes not only local residents, but also tourists from all over the world.
Not far from the park, in Garibaldi Square, you can listen to orchestras of Mexican musicians - mariachi. This area can accommodate many performers at once. Along the perimeter of the square there are various cafes and restaurants where you can eat tacos and tortillas, quesadillas and enchiladas, and also drink a glass of Pulque agave juice drink.
If museums don’t excite you, you can simply wander through the streets and squares of the city, soaking up its atmosphere.
You can walk along the famous avenue Paseo de la Reforma , where the independence monument - Angel is installed. Almost every Mexican TV series begins with this monument. On weekends, the area is completely closed off, giving cyclists the opportunity to ride and chat with each other.
And you can visit Chapultepec forest . The vast territory of the forest is home to many squirrels of different colors. Here you can rent a catamaran to enjoy a walk along the water surface of the lake, visit the zoo and a cute castle built on a hill.
And those who love blood-chilling horror in the style of Stephen King can visit the Island of the Dolls, located 20 km from the capital of Mexico on Lake Teshuilo. This is a mysterious island, shrouded in many secrets and legends. Everywhere you look at you thousands of crazy eyes of dolls and teddy bears tied to trees. The dolls are old and strange, but they seem to be alive, and even the fact that some are missing heads or arms and legs does not prevent them from instilling a chilling chill on visitors.
And of course, no city is complete without a city market, which every tourist should definitely visit. In Mexico City it is Central de Abasto. It is the world's largest wholesale and retail market for the country's consumer goods. It is a giant with an annual turnover of more than nine billion dollars. Every day, up to 25 thousand tons of various products are sold on the market.
No matter what time of day you visit the market, it will be a unique experience. Some may be skeptical about visiting this place, but if you are offered a walk through the market, do not refuse. Where else can you see such a riot of colors in vegetables and fruits, where else can you feel truly exotic mixtures of food aromas and spices, and appreciate the bright, unexpected contrast between the shopping arcades and the frescoes that are located outside.
Walking between the “ships” (as trading places are called in the market) with flowers, corridor after corridor a fantastic sight will open before your eyes: sunflowers, roses, carnations, orchids and many other beautiful flowers - more than 300 species that you may have never seen In my life. And if you decide to treat yourself to a bouquet of large roses, it will cost only 20 pesos, which will certainly add happiness to your walk.
While walking around the market, you can satisfy your hunger at the “blue ship” standing nearby. Here you will be fed very tasty tacos and Donna Marta's quisadillas, topped with a delicious pepper and tomato sauce. Donna Marta keeps the recipe a closely guarded secret.
But tacos aren't the only food on the market. Here you can find everything for every taste, from refreshing drinks, chicken, to cakes and pastries.
Another reason you can't help but fall in love with Mexico City's Central Market is the wonderful murals. The outside of the “ships” are decorated with them. Thanks to the "Central Walls" project, the outer walls of the ships were skillfully painted. Artists from not only Mexico, but also Japan, Spain, Colombia and Venezuela participated in the creation of these murals.
City of GODS
And the most important attraction not only of Mexico City, but of all of Latin America, a place where Mexicans from all over the country and tourists from all over the world come, is the ancient Teotihuacan.
This is a city built around the 2nd - 3rd century BC. A city that to this day keeps many mysteries and secrets. At different times it experienced moments of prosperity and decline, and today it is a huge open-air museum. In the center of this city there is a square called the “Citadel”, bounded along the entire perimeter by four pyramids.
The most important buildings of this complex are the majestic pyramids of the Moon and the Sun. Local residents are sure that powerful energy flows emanate from their peaks. There is a never-ending flow of tourists climbing to the peaks to come into contact with this energy and, of course, admire the splendor of the mystical space.
Mexico City is a city on the planet, full of bright colors and endless fun, where serious passions run high, and where both ugly and beautiful nuances coexist perfectly with each other, where life is in full swing around the clock and emotions flow!
If you ever visit Mexico, it will win your heart forever.
It's no secret that Mexico City is the capital of Mexico. This is one of the most densely populated areas, which was built in 1521 on the site of one of the Aztec tribe Tenochtitlan. The city still retains elements of traditional culture, but at the same time it has acquired new features under the influence of Spanish colonization.
Mexico City is a picturesque valley located between the mountains. The climate here is humid, subtropical. From May to April there are droughts, and from May to October there are rains.
The language spoken primarily in this city is Spanish, but in some areas of Mexico City (Polanco and Chapultepec) English may be spoken. Tourists are advised to learn at least a few words of Spanish to quickly establish contact with the natives. Undoubtedly, the city has many attractions, which we will talk about now.
This is an opera house built using the rarest Carrara marble. In 1904 Adam Boari, an Italian architect, created the design of the Palace. Inside, some walls are decorated with various murals by Mexican artists Alfaro Siqueiros and José Clemente Orozco. One of the most famous frescoes is “The Man at the Crossroads” by Diego Rivera.
Location: Av. Juárez, Centro Historico.
This is the house where famous artist Frida Kahlo previously lived. A year after her death, the building was converted into a museum. It is located on Londres Street in Mexico City.
In the museum you can see the artist’s personal belongings, as well as some of her paintings. There are also works by Frida's husband, artist Diego Rivera. This place will leave an unforgettable experience for every tourist.
Location: Londres - 247, Del Carmen.
This is a mystical place that attracts many tourists. The island is located in the Xochimilco district in the southern part of Mexico City. Each tree standing here is hung with various dolls. The history of the island says that one man, whose name was Julian Santana Barrera, once found a doll in the river. It turned out to belong to a drowned girl.
Since then, Julián began collecting children's toys and hanging them on trees all over the island. In the sun, plastic dolls begin to melt and turn into objects of horror. This attraction is not for the faint of heart, so think carefully before going there.
The building is located on Pase de la Reforma, it has 55 floors and looks quite fashionable compared to neighboring buildings. The tower was built in 2003, and was previously the tallest building in all of Mexico.
Due to the fact that Mexico City is located in a seismic zone, the architects had to build a cemented foundation with an area of 46 cubic meters and more than 21 tons of steel structures that support the walls.
This building is located on Constitution Square, it was built on the site of the palace of the Aztec emperor Montezuma.
Today, the palace houses the residence of the President and the Ministry of Finance, but some parts of the building are partially open to tourists. You can visit the offices where President Juarez worked in 1860. They form a small museum, the exhibits of which also tell about the history of the Mexican Congress. Entrance here is free.
Location: Plaza de la Constitución S/N, Centro.
This unusual attraction is located in the central part of Mexico City and attracts the views of many tourists with its appearance. The structure consists of 28 curved steel columns covered with hexagonal aluminum plates.
It is also noteworthy that the museum has no windows. This is explained not only by the peculiar decision of the architects, but also by the fact that some exhibits need protection from sunlight. The building itself houses a museum occupying 6 floors, shops, restaurants, offices and a library.
Location: Boulervard Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra - 303.
It is located on the Chapultepec hill at an altitude of 2325 meters above sea level. In 1785, the palace was founded by order of former king Bernardo de Galvez. This building served as a residence for emperors, presidents and governors.
In 1833, a military academy was located here, and a high tower called the “high knight” was erected. In 1864, Maximilian of Habsburg, the Mexican emperor, began to use the palace as a country residence. Today, various excursions are held in the castle, and anyone can visit this historical place.
This 44-story building is located in the very center of Mexico City. Architects Augusto Alvarez and Manuel de la Colina used mainly aluminum and glass to build the tower. The structure has survived many earthquakes, including the largest in 1895. Now there are many offices, shops and restaurants here. On the 38th floor there is a huge aquarium, and on the 44th floor you can admire beautiful views of Mexico City.
Location: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas - 2.
This is a complex of historical buildings that was founded around 1325 by the Aztec tribes. Translated, the name of the attraction means “big temple.”
The complex is also called the Pyramid of Huitzilopochtli. Since 1982, there has been a museum on this site, and any visitor can see the ruins of the ancient temple.
Location: Seminario - 8, Centro Historico.
This is a Catholic church located in the center of Mexico City, on Constitution Street. The cathedral was subject to changes several times due to its insignificance within a particular era.
In 1962 there was a fire that destroyed some parts of the temple, but after some time the cathedral was reconstructed. Currently, the temple is settling due to its massiveness. But, despite this, the architects are convinced that the building will last at least 50 years.
Location: Plaza de la Constitución S/N.
This place was opened in November 2011. It has the largest number of monarch butterflies in the world. The winged creatures spend the winter on large trees, which sometimes break due to such a large number of butterflies. You can tour the reserve on foot, by bicycle or on horseback.
The museum itself, founded in 1825, is located in Chapultepec Park. The building in which it is located was built only in 1963.
The museum displays various exhibits found in Mexico: these are cultural objects of the Mixtec, Mayan, Olmec, Aztec and Toltec tribes. In addition, exhibitions telling about the art and culture of other countries (Persia, Egypt, Spain) are often organized in the museum’s garden.
Location: Av Paseo de la Reforma & Calzada Gandhi S/N.
The attraction is located in the metropolitan area of Coyoacan. The famous communist Trotsky lived in this house; he spent the last years of his life in Mexico and was killed on August 20, 1940. In 1937, then-Mexican President Lázaro Cárdenas granted political asylum to Trotsky and his family. The house of the famous Marxist was equipped with all security items, since Trotsky knew about the attack on him that was being prepared.
On August 20, 1990, the official opening of the museum took place. In Trotsky’s house, many things remained untouched, so every tourist interested in this political figure can see Trotsky’s personal library, his chicken coop, the wall riddled with bullets after the first unsuccessful assassination attempt and, of course, the burial place of Trotsky and his wife.
Museum of Mexican Medicine (Palace of the Inquisition)
This landmark is located in the center of Mexico City, at the intersection of Republic of Brazil and Republic of Venezuela streets. The palace itself was created in the 18th century, and the Inquisition was abolished only in 1820.
Previously, the National University School of Medicine was located here, but due to its bloody past, it moved to the university campus. Today it is the Museum of Medicine. It was opened on December 22, 1880. The museum's 24 halls tell the story of the history of medicine since pre-Hispanic times. Some exhibits can really shock viewers, so it’s better not to come here for the faint of heart.
Location: República de Brasil - 33.
The academy building was built in 1781 and was previously called the School of Engraving. Many famous artists such as Jose Clemente Orozco and Rufino Tamayo received their education here. The university stores many sculptures, photographs, paintings, as well as a rich collection of coins.
Location: La Academia - 22.
Translated from the Indian language, the name of the museum means “House that rises by the water.” It contains objects from the pre-Columbian era that belonged to the famous artist Diego Rivera. The museum building was built in 1964 by architect Juan O'Gorman.
The name of the square speaks for itself. This place has collected objects from three cultures: Tenochtitlan, Spanish and modern Mexican. This place is also known for its historical events (the battle between the Aztecs and the Spaniards and the October 2, 1968 shooting of student demonstrators).
Location: Lázaro Cardenas, Tlatelolco.
– a city of contrasts. In his hot temperament of a multi-million city, various cultures, traditions and rituals are mixed. The sights of Mexico City cause delight for some, and fear for others. , majestic squares surrounded by Spanish-style architectural monuments confuse tourists, and only the reminder of some traces of ancient civilization make them understand that in fact they are in the heart of the once progressive Mayan and Aztec tribes.
The city we know today, with its 22 million people, modern business centers of American financial companies and many stately Spanish-style buildings, is very different from the place from which the modern capital grew.
Back in 1521, a nomadic Aztec tribe found itself in the Mexican Highlands. Here, in the intermountain basin, they discovered a unique place where, according to the command of the gods, they were supposed to stop and live. The Aztec Indians saw an eagle sitting on a giant cactus and holding a snake in its beak. The Aztecs considered this a sign from above and, stopping here, founded the great city of Tenochtitlan. The city is located in the western part of the picturesque Lake Texcoco.
Tenochtitlan had a complex network of canals and dams, as well as drawbridges. Its population was 500,000 inhabitants, which was a colossal figure at that time. When the Spaniards arrived in the lands of modern Mexico City, they were amazed by the scale and complex structure of this marvelous city on the water, which they called the Aztec Venice. The Aztecs had a large armed army, they captured neighboring lands and even put up powerful resistance to the Spaniards in 1519.
However, in 1521 the situation changed radically. Cortez's defeated army recovered in just three years and inflicted a significant defeat on the Indians, resulting in the conquest of Tenochtitlan. The city was renamed and became known as New Spain - the capital of the colony. Due to the fact that the Spaniards were unable to maintain the water supply system, they decided to dry up the lake, which has detrimental consequences to this day.
In 1847, the city was captured by the US Army, which expanded its territory into Mexico. Since then, Mexico City has become a global "Alpha" city and a prosperous financial center in North America.
The indigenous inhabitants, the Indians, look at modern skyscrapers as a symbol of enslavement, and only ancient pyramids and rituals, sacredly kept in some families, remind of former freedom.
Among the information about the rich and ancient history of modern Mexico City, several interesting facts can be highlighted:
- the city was founded by the ancient Aztecs;
- the ancient Aztecs, and then their descendants - the Indians, were a developed and cruel people;
- water canals were built by hand by entire generations of Indians;
- Tenochtitlan lasted 2,000 years;
- the Indians hospitably received the Spaniards because their god was Quetzalcoal, a once exiled white-skinned man;
- from the end of the 15th century, this city rightfully received the title of the most magnificent among all cities in the Western Hemisphere;
- the uprising and war with the Indians was started by Cortez, who defeated the Aztecs only the second time;
- Mexico City has been the possession of the Spanish king since May 13, 1521;
- in 1821, a popular uprising led to independence from Spain;
- since 1847 the city came under US ownership;
- the 19th Olympic Games took place here;
- Today Mexico City is a Federal District of 16 districts.
Changes of the city throughout history
As history shows, many peoples and cultures have visited the lands of Mexico City. Each of them left its indelible imprint. Even without visiting this city, but just looking at photos of the sights of Mexico City, you can get conflicting opinions about this city. On the one hand, the pyramids of the ancient Aztecs allow you to find yourself at the dawn of humanity; the amazing and frightening rituals of the Aztecs worshiping various deities do not fit in with the modern metropolis.
Spanish architecture and Catholic churches make you feel like you are in the center of Spain. Kilometers of traffic jams, busy roads, modern business centers and a frantic pace of life give the impression that life here revolves around business, financial transactions and large-scale transactions.
Since its founding, the city has changed beyond recognition, but one thing has remained unchanged - both then and now, the size of its population. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived here, more than 500,000 Aztecs lived here, and nowadays, many tourists are amazed that more than 22,000,000 people of different nationalities live here.
Why does the city have such a name?
The picturesque valley, where Tenochtitlan was later built, was covered with cacti and rocks. Translated from Aztec, Tenochtitlan means “house of the cactus rock.” The name of the future city was indicated by nature itself.
Later, the city became the Mexican capital, and therefore received the name that has survived to this day - Mexico City.
Sights of Mexico City
Ethnic diversity has created a uniquely diverse city. Tourists who come to visit its main attractions will be amazed by its contrasts and temperament. To better prepare for your trip and understand what exactly you don’t want to miss, you need to study photos of Mexico City attractions with descriptions.
Cathedral of Mexico City
The modern Cathedral is a majestic religious building on Constitution Square. Together with the National Palace and the Sagrario Metropolitano, they create a huge luxurious ensemble around the square. It is the largest and oldest in North America. Its northeastern part is the oldest. Cortes himself laid the first stone at its foundation. He destroyed the temple of the Aztec god of war, and from its stones the first Catholic church in these lands was erected.
In 1544, it was decided that the church should have a more majestic appearance, and therefore the ancient part of the modern cathedral became the northeastern wing of the newer Cathedral, unique in its architecture.
Palace of Fine Arts
Palacio de Ballas - Artes - an architectural masterpiece of the twentieth century. The Opera House is made in a combination of two styles: Art Deco and Beaux Arts. Construction of the theater lasted for 30 years. The best masters of Mexico worked on the design of the wall paintings. Today, visitors to the theater can enjoy its luxurious decoration and study the world-famous frescoes.
Frida Kahlo Museum
The house-museum of the famous Mexican artist is also called the “Blue” or “Azure House”. , but also the wife of the famous Mexican master Diego Rivera, who was one of the artists who painted the walls of the Opera House. From 1937 to 1939, they hosted his wife, who later settled next door to them. Today there is also a museum open to the public.
In the La Maison d'Azur, visitors can discover many interesting things: handwritten paintings by Kahlo, her death mask lying on the bed in the bedroom, a bizarre frog vase containing the ashes of Frida Kahlo and a whole collection of her figurines from the pre-Columbian period.
Island of Dead Dolls
La Isla de la Muneca is the name of the creepiest attraction in Mexico City. No matter how sad it may sound, its origin is based on a real tragedy. In the 1990s, an unsociable local resident grew vegetables on this island; his name was Santana Julián Barrera. One day he found a doll floating in the river, and later learned that it belonged to a little girl who had drowned in the river. Julian began collecting dolls, dressing them up and hanging them on trees in memory of the unfortunate girl. He did this until the end of his days - until 2001, when he died at 80 years old.
For 50 years, dolls have filled the island, their appearance has become unusable, causing a feeling of fear, because the plastic flows along with the paint, and the once cute faces of the dolls have turned into distorted grimaces. Therefore, a boat ride in Xochimilco may cause unpleasant emotions for children or those who do not want to get a creepy experience from this place.
Torre Mayor Tower in Mexico City Torre Mayor is the tallest building in Latin America. Its height is 225 meters and the number of floors is 55. If you climb to the 51st floor, visitors will find themselves on a huge observation deck. The building was built on Paseo de la Reforma. It is mainly used by the offices of numerous companies. The tower was built in 4 years, with good seismological resistance, it is capable of withstanding tremors of up to eight and a half points.
National Palace
The famous Zocalo Square is famous for its majestic presidential residence - Palacio National. The palace was built in 1562 and was the residence of the viceroys who ruled in New Spain. The building is 200 meters long, made entirely in the Borroque style, the interior walls are decorated with paintings by Diego Rivera. Above the main of the three courtyards hangs a huge bell called Dolores. It is a significant symbol for local residents as it marked an important historical event.
In 1810, priest Miguel Hidalgo, driven by the interests of the revolution, rang the bell, announcing the beginning of the great revolution. Since then, this event has been celebrated annually on September 16.
Soumaya Anvil Museum
A unique and unusual architectural structure is located on Plaza Carso. The museum consists of rare works of art collected by a wealthy Mexican businessman. Works by Monet, Van Gogh, Leonardo Da Vinci, Diego Rivera and many other geniuses are kept here.
The shape of the building resembles a huge anvil. It has no windows, and its surface is made of aluminum hexagons attached to 28 curved steel columns. The building is not exposed to direct sunlight, so paintings and other art objects are completely protected.
Chapultepec Palace
Chapultepec Hill is located at an altitude of 2325 meters above sea level. It is crowned by a beautiful palace of the same name, which was once the residence of emperors, governors and presidents of Mexico. Until 1785, the castle had no owners for a long time; Viceroy Galveston put it up for auction and only 21 years later it was bought.
The palace was of interest to the authorities of Mexico City, who decided to buy it and create a military academy here. The attached observation tower was named “High Knight”. When American troops invaded, a skirmish took place here known as the Battle of Chupultepec. Since 1864, the castle became the country residence of Maximilian Habsburg, and after his death the National Astronomical Observatory was equipped here. Today there is a historical museum located here.
Latin American Tower
One of the very first high-rise buildings built here is the Latin American Tower. Today this building is more than 60 years old. It has several interesting features:
- The 44-story building is made of aluminum and glass;
- the tower is equipped with a high-speed elevator that covers one floor in one second;
- on the 38th floor there is a huge aquarium;
- on the 42nd floor there is an observation deck and a cafe; there is an open area that can be reached via a spiral staircase;
- floors from 37 to 44 are reserved for museum exhibitions, the remaining floors and premises are occupied by offices.
National Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
Monarch butterflies are unique creations that have an excellent navigation system. During the migration process, they cover a distance of 4,500 kilometers. Their migration takes longer than the period of their life, so before they return to the land of Mexico, three generations of new butterflies are replaced. It was here, in their favorite habitat, that the National Nature Reserve was founded.
The park is 3,000 meters above sea level and is home to eight colonies of Monarchs. The butterflies number in the billions. They migrate here from Canada and the eastern United States.
National Anthropological Museum
The museum is located in Chapultepec Park. It contains exhibits of the pre-Columbian era of the existence of local residents, their life, way of life and rituals. This museum allows you to plunge into ancient history and pay tribute to the roots from which the modern population of Mexico City emerged. Unique statues and archaeological excavations transport their visitors to the dawn of humanity, to wondrous ancient worlds.
House-Museum of Leon Trotsky
It was here in the Coyoacan region that Leon Trotsky lived the last months of his life. The President of Mexico granted him political asylum. For some time, the family of Trotsky and Frida Kahlo had friendly relations, but later the difference in political views forced them to leave the Cote d'Azur. Trotsky's life in Mexico did not last long; on August 20, 1940, he was killed. In memory of him, on the same day exactly 50 years later, his house-museum was opened here.
Museum of Mexican Medicine (Palace of the Inquisition)
The Palace of the Inquisition was notorious and although it was built in the 19th century, in 1820 the Inquisition was officially banned. The majestic building served as a Medical School for some time, and later they decided to open a museum of Mexican medicine here. The peculiarity of the building is its unusual appearance: the corners of the building are crowned with arches that do not have support on one side, and the cut-off portal of the facade allows you to see the full panorama of Santo Domingo Square. Today visitors can contemplate the following exhibitions:
- history before Spanish medicine;
- ancient medical equipment;
- exhibits dedicated to the development of diseases and pathologies;
- wax figures.
Academy of San Carlos
The Academy is the first art school in America, primarily dedicated to sculpture. Famous masters studied here, whose paintings, engravings, drawings, sculptures and photographs can be examined by all guests of the academy today. The academy even has a numismatics room, where rare coins from all over the world are collected.
Anaguacalli Museum
Mexican artist Diego Rivera, a master craftsman who painted the walls of the Mexico City Opera House, erected a magnificent structure to house his collection. At some point in his life, Rivera became deeply involved in the study of the identity of the indigenous peoples of Mexico. He began collecting valuable artifacts, Native American cultural treasures, and pre-Columbian art.
His passion led him to invest in 50,000 valuable artifacts. Such a collection required a special place for storage, thanks to which Anaguacli, “The House Rising by the Water,” exists today. Its unusual appearance can be explained by the fact that Rivera wanted to build a house similar to the pyramids of ancient peoples, in the style of Teotiakuan buildings. His architect friend did an excellent job with this task, although the construction took more than 20 years and Diego did not live to see the completion of the construction project.
Square of Three Cultures
The square commemorates the last battle between Cortés and the Aztecs of Cuauhtémoc. A memorial plaque in the square draws everyone's attention to the fact that the clash of peoples was neither defeat nor victory, but served as the birth of a new international nation of modern Mexico City. The three cultures that the name of the square refers to include the culture of Tenochtitlan, Spain and modern Mexican culture.
