Travel writer Paul Bloomfield and expert historian Dr. Amy Fuller delve into Mexico City's roots with the Aztec people, the impact of Spanish conquest, and the city's evolution. They highlight important historical figures, hidden heritage sites, and offer travel tips for eager explorers.
Mexico City's roots lie in the Mexica Aztec settlement of Tenochtitlan, a pivotal center for over 700 years.
Spanish conquest resulted in the city's transformation as the capital of New Spain, shaping a rigid societal class structure.
Key events like the Mexican-American War and figures like Our Lady of Guadalupe have shaped Mexico City's national identity.
Visiting sites like Teotihuacan and savoring tacos al pastor offer insights into the city's pre-Hispanic roots and culinary heritage.
Exploring parklands like Chapultepec Park and indulging in unique experiences like Lucha Libre epitomize Mexico City's vibrant history and entertainment.
Deep dives
History and Significance of Tenochtitlan
Tenochtitlan, founded around 1325 by the Mexica Aztecs, later became Mexico City, marking the region's power center for over 700 years. The city was crucial to the Aztec empire, showcased by the grand Temple of Tenochtitlan dedicated to war and agriculture deities.
The Conquest and Transformation
The Spanish conquest, often termed a civil war due to indigenous involvement against the Aztecs, led to the fall of Tenochtitlan in August 1521, resulting in the city's transformation into the capital of New Spain under Spanish rule until 1821.
Colonial Influence and Society Stratification
Post-conquest, a rigid societal class structure based on race emerged, with Spaniards occupying top positions while a tiered system placed Creoles, Mestizos, Indigenous, and Africans below. Spain's rule and encomienda system influenced the city's development.
Revolutionary Changes and Cultural Aspects
The city's history saw pivotal events like the Mexican-American War and the Ten Tragic Days during the Mexican Revolution. The emergence of national identity through figures like Our Lady of Guadalupe and key sites like Chapultepec Park reflect Mexico City's diverse historical tapestry.
Iconic Sites and Experiences
Recommended spots like Teotihuacan, Coyoacan, and Xochimilco offer glimpses into pre-Hispanic roots, colonial influence, and vibrant culture. Also, visiting markets, National Museum of Anthropology, and savoring tacos at Tekkariya provide an immersive experience of Mexico City's historical and culinary heritage.
Must-Try Culinary Experience
A visit to Tekkariya in the Roma district to savor tacos al pastor, a signature dish influenced by Lebanese immigrants, is essential. Tacos, notably the taco al pastor, encapsulate Mexico City's culinary fusion and cultural history, offering a delightful gastronomic adventure.
Insider Tip and Unique Experience
Exploring Mexico City's vast parklands like Chapultepec Park and Viveros de Coyoacan provides tranquil retreats amidst the city's hustle. Recommendations to take the Metro for affordability and delighting in the friendliest squirrels at Viveros de Coyoacan offer a unique and serene experience.
Cultural Spectacle at Lucha Libre
Attending a Lucha Libre, Mexican wrestling, event at Arena Mexico on select nights immerses visitors in a unique sports culture with acrobatic wrestling and iconic masked wrestlers. The enduring popularity and distinct style of Lucha Libre showcase Mexico City's vibrant entertainment scene.
Did You Know Historical Fact
Tenochtitlan, with a population exceeding half a million, surpassed European cities in the 16th century, illustrating its monumental size and significance in history. This fact highlights the grandeur and scale of Tenochtitlan as a major urban center.
Wrap Up
Mexico City's rich history, from Tenochtitlan's prominence to colonial rule, revolutionary shifts, and cultural heritage, offers diverse experiences and insights for visitors. Exploring iconic sites, savoring traditional cuisines, and partaking in unique experiences like Lucha Libre reflect the city's dynamic historical tapestry.
In episode three of our series exploring the great historical cities of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas, travel writer Paul Bloomfield is joined by Dr Amy Fuller as they search for hints of the past within Mexico City. Together they explore the city's roots in the settlement founded by the people who became known as Aztec, as well as the events and impacts of the invasion by Spanish forces. They will also introduce some of the figures who played a major role in the development of what's now Mexico City, and discover less known places to visit for insights into its heritage. Along the way, they’ll even offer a few tips and tricks for the eager traveller.
History's greatest cities is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine.
