Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco
Location: Mexico City Mexico
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Historic Centre of Mexico City is a site that features a mix of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern architecture. Xochimilco, on the other hand, is a network of canals and floating gardens that offer a glimpse of traditional Mexican life.
Prominent Features:
History: The Historic Centre of Mexico City was founded in 1325 by the Aztecs as Tenochtitlan, which was later conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century. The area went through significant urban development during the colonial era, resulting in the mix of pre-Hispanic and colonial architecture that characterizes the site. Xochimilco, meanwhile, dates back to pre-Hispanic times and was an important agricultural center for the Aztecs.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Fun Fact: The Zocalo is one of the largest city squares in the world, measuring over 57,000 square meters.
Entry Fees: Most attractions in the Historic Centre of Mexico City are free, but some museums and landmarks may have admission fees. Xochimilco boat rides typically cost around 300 pesos per hour.
How to Reach It: Mexico City is well-connected by air and land, with two major airports and several bus stations serving domestic and international destinations. The Historic Centre of Mexico City is easily accessible by public transportation, including the metro and buses. Xochimilco is located about 17 kilometers south of the historic center and can be reached by metro, bus, or taxi.
Where to Stay: The Historic Centre of Mexico City offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Xochimilco also has some hotels and guesthouses, but many visitors choose to stay in Mexico City and make a day trip to Xochimilco.
Next Stop: Historic Centre of Puebla 135km to the Southeast
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Historic Centre of Mexico City is a site that features a mix of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern architecture. Xochimilco, on the other hand, is a network of canals and floating gardens that offer a glimpse of traditional Mexican life.
Prominent Features:
- Zocalo: The main square of Mexico City, featuring the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, and Templo Mayor.
- Palacio de Bellas Artes: An iconic performance hall that hosts opera, ballet, and concerts.
- Chapultepec Park: A sprawling urban park that houses several museums, including the National Museum of Anthropology and the Rufino Tamayo Museum.
- Frida Kahlo Museum: The former home of the famous Mexican painter, now converted into a museum dedicated to her life and work.
- Xochimilco: A system of canals and floating gardens that offer a glimpse of traditional Mexican life.
History: The Historic Centre of Mexico City was founded in 1325 by the Aztecs as Tenochtitlan, which was later conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century. The area went through significant urban development during the colonial era, resulting in the mix of pre-Hispanic and colonial architecture that characterizes the site. Xochimilco, meanwhile, dates back to pre-Hispanic times and was an important agricultural center for the Aztecs.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Boat rides in Xochimilco: Take a ride on a colorful, flat-bottomed boat called a trajinera and enjoy the scenery and festive atmosphere.
- National Museum of Anthropology: Explore the fascinating world of pre-Hispanic Mexico through interactive exhibits and displays.
- KidZania: A theme park where children can role-play various professions and learn about the world of work.
Fun Fact: The Zocalo is one of the largest city squares in the world, measuring over 57,000 square meters.
Entry Fees: Most attractions in the Historic Centre of Mexico City are free, but some museums and landmarks may have admission fees. Xochimilco boat rides typically cost around 300 pesos per hour.
How to Reach It: Mexico City is well-connected by air and land, with two major airports and several bus stations serving domestic and international destinations. The Historic Centre of Mexico City is easily accessible by public transportation, including the metro and buses. Xochimilco is located about 17 kilometers south of the historic center and can be reached by metro, bus, or taxi.
Where to Stay: The Historic Centre of Mexico City offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Xochimilco also has some hotels and guesthouses, but many visitors choose to stay in Mexico City and make a day trip to Xochimilco.
Next Stop: Historic Centre of Puebla 135km to the Southeast