What is the Capital of Mexico? Mexico City

Capital City of Mexico: Mexico City

City Overview

Mexico City (in Spanish, Ciudad de México, or CDMX) is the capital of Mexico and one of the largest and most important cities in the world. As both the political and economic heart of the country, Mexico City has a rich history that stretches back to the time of the ancient Aztec civilization. Originally known as Tenochtitlán, the city was founded in 1325 by the Aztecs on an island in Lake Texcoco. Today, it stands as one of the most populous urban areas globally and a vibrant cultural center. See Justinshoes for other major cities in Mexico.

Located in the Valley of Mexico, a high-altitude basin in the central part of the country, Mexico City covers a large area and enjoys a favorable location near important trade routes. Over the years, it has become a thriving metropolis, housing numerous world-class museums, historic landmarks, and iconic neighborhoods.

• Area: 1,485 km² (573 sq mi)
• Population: Approximately 9.2 million (2023 estimate) within the city; the metropolitan area exceeds 21 million, making it one of the most populous urban areas in the world.
• Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST) – UTC -6:00, with daylight saving time observed (UTC -5:00).
• Highest Mountain: The Pico de Orizaba (also called Citlaltépetl) is the highest peak in Mexico, standing at 5,636 meters (18,491 feet). While not in Mexico City itself, it is a significant geographical feature of the central region of the country.
• Longest River: The Rio Grande is the longest river in Mexico, flowing from its source in Colorado, USA, and passing along part of the US-Mexico border before draining into the Gulf of Mexico.

Major Landmarks

Mexico City is rich in history and culture, with numerous landmarks that attract millions of tourists annually. Here are some of the most notable:

1. Zócalo (Plaza Mayor): One of the largest public squares in the world, the Zócalo is the heart of the city and an important historical site. It is surrounded by the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and other government buildings.
2. Chapultepec Castle: This historic castle, perched on a hill in Chapultepec Park, was once the residence of Mexican emperors and now houses the National Museum of History. The castle offers panoramic views of the city and is one of the most visited tourist attractions.
3. Templo Mayor: The Templo Mayor was the main temple of the Aztec Empire, and its ruins are located near the Zócalo. The site is one of the most significant archaeological finds in Mexico and offers insight into Aztec culture and religion.
4. Palacio de Bellas Artes: A stunning example of early 20th-century architecture, the Palacio de Bellas Artes is home to numerous art galleries, a theater, and mosaic murals created by famous Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera.
5. Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as the Blue House, is located in the Coyoacán neighborhood. It was the home of the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and is now a museum showcasing her life, works, and legacy.
6. Teotihuacán: Although a bit outside of Mexico City, Teotihuacán is one of the most visited archaeological sites in the country. The ancient city is known for its enormous pyramids, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon.
7. Xochimilco: This district is famous for its floating gardens and canals, a remnant of the Aztec period. Visitors can take colorful boats known as trajineras through the canals while enjoying music and local food.
8. Museo Nacional de Antropología: One of the world’s finest anthropology museums, it houses the Aztec Sun Stone and numerous artifacts from pre-Columbian Mexico.

Climate Overview

Mexico City enjoys a temperate climate due to its high altitude (2,240 meters or 7,350 feet above sea level), which keeps the temperatures moderate even though the city lies in a tropical region. The climate is typically mild and dry during the winter months, with a rainy season occurring in the summer.

Monthly Climate Table

Month	Avg Temperature (°C)	Avg Precipitation (mm)	Sunny Days (days)
January	12°C	10 mm	18
February	13°C	5 mm	19
March	16°C	4 mm	20
April	18°C	2 mm	21
May	20°C	3 mm	21
June	22°C	130 mm	16
July	22°C	170 mm	15
August	22°C	160 mm	14
September	21°C	150 mm	13
October	18°C	60 mm	18
November	14°C	10 mm	19
December	12°C	5 mm	19

Other Cities as Capital in the History of Mexico

1. Tenochtitlán (Pre-Colonial Period)

Before the Spanish conquest, Tenochtitlán was the capital of the Aztec Empire and one of the largest cities in the world. It was a major political, cultural, and religious center. The city was built on an island in Lake Texcoco and was known for its impressive temples, palaces, and canals.

• Capital Period: 1325-1521
• Significance: Tenochtitlán was a marvel of engineering and urban planning. It was the heart of Aztec society until its fall to Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés in 1521.

2. Veracruz (During Colonial Period)

During the early colonial period, Veracruz served as the port and capital of the Viceroyalty of New Spain before Mexico City became the primary administrative center. The city’s port was crucial for the flow of goods between Mexico and Europe.

• Capital Period: 1519-1521 (brief period during the Spanish conquest)
• Significance: Veracruz served as the first point of contact for the Spanish and was integral to the establishment of Spanish colonial rule in Mexico.

3. Mexico City (Post-Independence)

After independence from Spain in 1821, Mexico City officially became the capital of the newly formed Mexican Republic. It has remained the political, economic, and cultural center of the nation ever since.

• Capital Period: 1821-Present
• Significance: Mexico City has grown to be one of the largest cities in the world, serving as a global metropolis with significant influence in culture, trade, and politics.

---

Country Facts: Mexico

Mexico, officially known as the United Mexican States (Estados Unidos Mexicanos), is located in North America, bordered by the United States to the north, Guatemala and Belize to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the southwest, and the Gulf of Mexico to the east.

Key Country Facts:

• Population: Approximately 126 million (2023 estimate)
• Area: 1,964,375 km² (758,449 sq mi), making Mexico the 13th largest country in the world by area.
• Largest City: Mexico City
• Capital: Mexico City
• Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
• Official Language: Spanish (with 68 national languages, including many Indigenous languages such as Nahuatl and Maya)
• ISO Country Codes:
  • ISO 3166-1 Alpha-2: MX
  • ISO 3166-1 Alpha-3: MEX
• Government: Federal Republic, with a President serving as head of state and government. The country has a bicameral legislature and a multi-party system.
• Religion: The majority of the population (approximately 80%) is Roman Catholic, with small Protestant, Jewish, and other religious communities.
• Economy: Mexico has the 15th largest economy in the world. It is highly diversified, with key industries including manufacturing, oil, agriculture, and tourism.

Important Historical Events

• 1521: Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlán, marking the beginning of colonial rule.
• 1810-1821: The Mexican War of Independence from Spain.
• 1910-1920: The Mexican Revolution, which led to major political and social changes.
• 2000: The first democratic transition of power with the election of Vicente Fox as President.