Mexico: a land of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and delicious food. But there’s more to this incredible country than meets the eye. Here are 10 fascinating facts that will make you see Mexico in a whole new light:
1. Home to the Largest Pyramid (Technically)
Forget Egypt! The title of largest pyramid in the world by volume actually belongs to the Great Pyramid of Cholula in central Mexico. Nicknamed “Tlachihualtepetl” (meaning “man-made mountain”), this behemoth is covered in earth and vegetation, resembling a natural hill.
2. A Tower of Tongues
Mexico boasts an impressive linguistic diversity. Spanish is the official language, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are 68 indigenous languages spoken across the country, reflecting the rich heritage of ancient Mesoamerican cultures. This makes Mexico one of the most linguistically diverse nations in the Americas.
3. A Museum Mecca
Calling all history and art buffs! Mexico City holds the title of second city in the world with the most museums, boasting a staggering 170 institutions. From ancient Aztec artifacts to colonial masterpieces, there’s something for every curious mind.
4. Birthplace of Chocolate (As We Know It)
Chocolate lovers rejoice! The origins of this delectable treat can be traced back to the ancient Mesoamericans, who cultivated cocoa beans and created a bitter beverage prized for its medicinal properties. The Aztecs even used cocoa beans as currency!
5. Day of the Dead: A Celebration of Life
While Halloween focuses on spooky costumes, Mexico’s Day of the Dead is a vibrant celebration of life and remembrance. Families gather to create colorful altars adorned with sugar skulls, marigolds, and favorite foods of their deceased loved ones. It’s a beautiful and heartwarming tradition.
6. Ancient Metropolis Meets Modern Marvels
Mexico City holds the distinction of being the oldest major city in North America, continuously inhabited for over 2,000 years. Tenochtitlan, the former Aztec capital, was built on an island in Lake Texcoco. Today, Mexico City is a thriving metropolis with a modern skyline that coexists with ancient ruins.
7. Artistic Innovation: From Murals to Color TV
Mexico has a rich artistic tradition that extends far beyond its famous murals. Did you know that color TV technology was actually invented in Mexico by Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena in 1940? This innovation revolutionized the way we experience television.
8. A Reef Refuge
Mexico is a haven for marine life, boasting the second-largest coral reef system in the world, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Stretching for over 600 miles along the Yucatan Peninsula and Belize, this underwater paradise is teeming with colorful fish, coral formations, and fascinating marine creatures.
9. Culinary Capital
Mexican cuisine is a global phenomenon, and for good reason! From the fiery heat of chiles to the comforting flavors of mole, Mexican food is a symphony of taste and tradition. But beyond tacos and burritos, regional specialties like Oaxacan mole and Yucatecan cochinita pibil offer a delightful exploration of diverse culinary influences.
10. Sinking City? Not quite
Mexico City is indeed slowly sinking due to groundwater extraction. However, modern engineering solutions are mitigating this issue. This famous city continues to be a vibrant cultural and economic hub, defying the “sinking city” label.
