Mexico City, or Cd De Mexico as it’s officially known, stands as one of the world’s most captivating capital cities, brimming with history and vibrant culture. A visit here is more than just a trip; it’s an immersion into a legacy spanning three millennia. We aim to simplify your exploration of this incredible metropolis.
Panoramic view of Alameda Central park and Torre Latinoamericana skyscraper in CD de Mexico (Mexico City)
For those eager to delve deeper into the city’s past, we’ve compiled a timeline of significant events that have shaped the Valley of Mexico over approximately 3,000 years. This historical backdrop provides a rich context for understanding the dynamic city you’ll encounter today.
Understanding CD de Mexico: More Than Just a City
Ciudad de México, abbreviated as CDMX and referred to as CD de Mexico in common usage, is not only the capital of Mexico but also the most populous city in North America. Nestled within the Valley of Mexico at an elevation of 2,240 meters (7,350 ft), its geography is as striking as its urban landscape. Administratively, CD de Mexico is divided into 16 boroughs, since 2016 officially designated as alcaldias, each contributing to the city’s diverse character.
With a population of approximately 8.84 million within its 1,485 square kilometers (573 sq mi) and a sprawling Greater Mexico City metropolitan area encompassing around 21.3 million residents, CD de Mexico is a megacity of global significance. It holds the title of the largest metropolitan area in the Western Hemisphere and the biggest Spanish-speaking city worldwide, reflecting its extensive cultural and economic influence.
Historically significant, CD de Mexico is the oldest capital city in the Americas and one of only two in the continent founded by indigenous people. Originally established by the Aztecs in 1325 as Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco, the city underwent a dramatic transformation after the 1521 siege of Tenochtitlan. Rebuilt to Spanish urban standards, it was officially recognized as México Tenochtitlán in 1524. By 1585, it was formally named Ciudad de México. Serving as a pivotal political, administrative, and financial hub for a vast portion of the Spanish-speaking world since then, it transitioned to the Federal District in 1824 post-independence, a designation it held until 2016.
A significant shift occurred on January 29, 2016, when the Distrito Federal officially became Ciudad de México (CDMX), reinforcing its identity as a distinct and autonomous entity.
As a cultural epicenter, CD de Mexico boasts an unparalleled array of attractions within the Americas. It proudly claims to have more museums than any other city on the planet, rivaled only by London. The city’s vibrant population thrives on a rich culinary scene and a captivating culture, a blend of ancient traditions and global influences that have shaped CD de Mexico into the unique destination it is today.
We trust your visit to CD de Mexico will be an enriching and memorable experience.
