This week's Travel Tuesday destination: North America's most
populated city - Mexico City, Mexico!
The Aztecs first inhabited Mexico City, originally known as
Tenochtitlan, in the 12th Century. As a
result, there are a plethora of cultural sites to visit.
The Zócalo is the main square in the city.
The Aztecs were the first to gather here. Now, the square is the location of the City
Hall, National Palace, and numerous other monuments. It is also used for festivals and
celebrations.
While at the Zócalo, be sure to stop at the Cathedral and the
Templo Mayor. The Cathedral features 16
chapels and a solid gold altar. The
Templo Mayor was the main Aztec temple.
It was covered over by the Spanish in the 1500s. Now, the archeological dig is a UNESCO World
Heritage Site and open to visitors.
Mexico City is in the Top 5 Cities for having the most
museums, and there is not shortage of art to be seen here. The Museo de
Arte Moderno boasts picturesque gardens outside and permanent exhibitions
of Mexican artists inside - including Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Manuel Álvarez
Bravo. To delve deeper into Rivera's
work, make a stop at the Museo
Dolores Olmedo. For Frida fans, stop
by La Casa Azul - she was born
in the house, lived in it for a good portion of her life, and Rivera donated it
after her death to be made into a museum.
Casa Artelexia customers are certain to love La
Ciudadela - a local craft market where you can buy Huichol beadwork,
hand-carved masks, pottery, leatherwork, and much more. Don't forget to haggle!
When you want to get away from the hubbub and traffic of the
city, take a day trip to Xochimilco. It is the only area of the city where the
canals still exist, and you can take a relaxing ride around its many small
islands in a gondola.
Don't forget to eat!
There are countless options - tacos al pastor, tortas, chilaquiles,
pozole - be sure to bring your stretch pants!
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