You Probably Didn’t Know These 19 Facts About Mexico
Mexico is a country bursting with rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. While many know about its famous beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious food, there’s much more to Mexico than meets the eye.
From its natural wonders to fascinating historical tidbits, Mexico is full of surprises that many people—both visitors and locals—may not be aware of. Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious about this incredible country, here are 19 surprising facts about Mexico that will leave you in awe.
1. Mexico Has 68 National Languages
While Spanish is the most widely spoken language in Mexico, the country officially recognizes 68 national languages. These include 63 indigenous languages, showcasing Mexico’s incredible cultural diversity.
2. Mexico City Sinks a Few Inches Each Year
Mexico City is sinking by about 3-4 inches annually because it was built on top of an ancient lake bed. As water is pumped out from underground reserves, the city continues to slowly sink.
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3. Mexico Introduced Chocolate to the World
Chocolate as we know it today originated in Mexico, where the ancient Mayans and Aztecs made a bitter chocolate drink. The word “chocolate” comes from the Nahuatl word “xocolatl.”
4. Mexico Has the World’s Smallest Volcano
Standing at just 43 feet tall, the Cuexcomate Volcano in Puebla is considered the world’s smallest volcano. You can even descend into its crater via a spiral staircase!
5. The World’s Largest Pyramid Is in Mexico
While Egypt’s pyramids are iconic, the Great Pyramid of Cholula in Mexico is the largest pyramid in the world by volume. It’s also a lesser-known archaeological marvel compared to its Egyptian counterparts.
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6. Mexico Has a Monarch Butterfly Reserve
Every year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico from Canada and the U.S. They travel over 3,000 miles to reach the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
7. Mexico Is Home to the Oldest University in North America
The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), founded in 1551, is the oldest university in North America. It remains one of the most prestigious universities in Latin America today.
8. Tequila Can Only Come from Specific Regions in Mexico
Just like Champagne from France, true tequila can only be produced in certain areas of Mexico, primarily in the state of Jalisco. The agave plant used to make tequila must also meet strict criteria to bear the name.
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9. Mexico’s Day of the Dead Is a UNESCO-Recognized Tradition
Mexico’s Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is such a unique and rich cultural celebration that it has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The holiday celebrates and honors the deceased in a colorful and joyous way.
10. Mexico Has More UNESCO World Heritage Sites Than Any Other Country in the Americas
Mexico boasts 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient ruins, colonial cities, and natural wonders. It’s the country with the most heritage sites in the Americas, and one of the top in the world.
11. Mexico City Was Built on the Ruins of Tenochtitlan
Mexico City was constructed on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the ancient capital of the Aztec Empire. You can still see remnants of the ancient city in the heart of the capital today.
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12. The Mexican Flag Tells a Legendary Story
The eagle holding a snake on Mexico’s flag is based on an Aztec legend about the founding of Tenochtitlan. According to the myth, the gods told the Aztecs to build their city where they saw an eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak.
13. Mexico Is One of the World’s Most Biodiverse Countries
Mexico is one of the 17 megadiverse countries, housing around 10% of the world’s biodiversity. Its ecosystems range from deserts and rainforests to mountain ranges and coral reefs.
14. The First Color TV Was Invented by a Mexican Engineer
Guillermo González Camarena, a Mexican electrical engineer, invented the first color television system in 1940. His invention helped shape the future of broadcasting worldwide.
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15. There’s a Floating Island of Dolls
La Isla de las Muñecas (The Island of Dolls) is a creepy, yet fascinating tourist spot in the Xochimilco canals near Mexico City. The island is filled with hundreds of dolls hanging from trees, a tribute to a girl who allegedly drowned there.
16. Mexico Celebrates Cinco de Mayo More in the U.S. Than in Mexico
Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day. In fact, it’s celebrated more in the U.S. than in Mexico, where it’s mainly observed in the state of Puebla to commemorate a battle victory.
17. Mexico Has the World’s Largest Underwater Cave System
The Sac Actun cave system in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is the largest underwater cave system in the world. It stretches over 215 miles and is a significant archaeological site for its Mayan relics.
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18. The Chihuahua Dog Breed Is Named After a Mexican State
The popular Chihuahua breed is named after the state of Chihuahua in northern Mexico. These small dogs are believed to have originated from the region’s ancient Techichi breed.
19. There’s a “Fire Volcano” in Mexico
Colima Volcano, also known as the “Fire Volcano,” is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico. It has erupted more than 40 times since the 16th century and is closely monitored due to its frequent activity.
These 19 surprising facts about Mexico highlight the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a trip or just learning more, Mexico’s vibrant heritage and unique landmarks offer endless reasons to be fascinated by this incredible country.
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