By Robin Thornley
Whenever ground is broken for a new high rise or subway station in
Mexico City, workmen discover evidence of the city's rich history. The Spanish conquistadors built their colonial city on the ruins of the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan in the Valley of Mexico.
Ancient City
The Aztecs built their capital in the Valley of Mexico in 1325, inspired by an eagle atop a cactus, the image on Mexico's national flag.
Spanish Conquest
In 1519, Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes was intimidated by the pyramids of the 200-year-old Aztec capital and its 100,000 residents; nevertheless, his 400 soldiers quickly defeated the Emperor Montezuma.
Heart of the Capital
The Zocalo--the city's main plaza--also was the center of the Aztec capital, and remnants of the Templo Mayor are preserved on the periphery.
Lake Texcoco
Chinampas--rafts covered with soil--were used by the Aztecs to grow food on Lake Texcoco, now a dry lake bed surrounding the city.
Pollution
Mountains surround the city, trapping much of the city's pollution; visitors can find the air difficult to breathe on bad days.
Chapultepec Park
Chapultepec Park is home to the National Museum of Anthropology, housing a vast collection of pre-Colombian artifacts.
Hip District
The city's hippest district, Condesa, is home to cutting edge restaurants, art galleries filled with contemporary art, fashion boutiques and hip hotels.
Resources
About the Author:
Robin Thornley has been a successful writer for more than 25 years, penning articles for national magazines, newspapers and websites. She specializes in a variety of topics, including business, politics, lifestyle trends, travel and cuisine. She also is the author of two guidebooks.
