(7) Mexico City – megacity where history and modernity coexist

Mexico City (Ciudad de México) is a megacity where history and modernity coexist.

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Population: The Greater Metropolitan Area’s population is estimated to be approximately 22.75 million in 2025. The city proper had about 9.21 million inhabitants in 2020.
Area: The city proper covers approximately 1,495 km². The Greater Metropolitan Area extends across the broader Valley of Mexico.
Languages: The official language is Spanish (Mexican standard). Other languages spoken include Nahuatl and other indigenous languages, with some English use.
Religion: Catholicism is predominant, but Protestantism, irreligion, and minority indigenous faiths also exist.
Climate: Located in a high-altitude area (approximately 2,240m), the city experiences an average annual temperature of 15–18°C with a dry highland climate.

Aztec Capital Tenochtitlan (~1521): Originally an island city on a lake, Tenochtitlan grew into the heart of the Aztec Empire.
Spanish Conquest Period (~1521–16th Century): In 1521, the Spanish conquered and rebuilt the city as Mexico City (Ciudad de México), reshaping it into the political and religious center of Spanish colonial rule.
Independence and Modernization (~19–20th Century): Mexico City remained the capital after Mexico’s independence in 1821. In 1987, the Centro Histórico was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Transition to Megacity (~Late 20th Century–Present): After the major earthquake in 1985, the city underwent restoration. However, rapid urbanization and population growth have led to issues like the “sinking city” phenomenon and groundwater depletion.

Location and Altitude: Mexico City is located on the central plateau of the Valley of Mexico at an altitude of approximately 2,240m.
Valley of Mexico: This valley was once composed of five lakes, but excessive drainage has led to groundwater depletion and ground subsidence.
Urban Structure: The city includes the Centro Histórico (historic center), bohemian and trendy areas like Roma and Condesa, and new urban districts such as Santa Fe and Polanco.

Multicultural Art Hub: Mexico City has produced renowned artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Cultural spaces are centered around the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Museo de Arte Moderno.
Food Culture: Known for traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, and unique Mexico City specialties like Mole and Quesadilla, it has become a top street food destination in the Spanish-speaking world.
Festivals: The city hosts vibrant festivals, including the Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) parade, Lucha Libre (wrestling), and various popular music and street art parades.

Ground Subsidence: The city is known as a “sinking city,” subsiding by tens of centimeters annually.
Air and Water Quality Issues: Over-extraction of groundwater causes urban subsidence, and aging infrastructure contributes to drought and water scarcity, posing a “Day Zero” risk.
Response Efforts: Efforts include improving water supply systems, using water tanks, and providing emergency water supplies, though some areas still face water shortages.

Political and Financial Center: Mexico City serves as the governmental and financial hub of Mexico. Its Greater Metropolitan Area produces approximately US$411 billion in GDP, accounting for about 17% of the national GDP.
Industrial Structure Transformation: The city transitioned from an industrial center in the 1970s to a service-oriented economy, primarily focused on finance and information technology.
Employment and Migration: Large-scale migration from rural to urban areas has led to the formation of informal settlements.

Historic Center (Centro Histórico):
- Zócalo: Latin America’s largest square, bordered by the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
- Templo Mayor: Ruins of an Aztec temple.
- Palacio de Bellas Artes: A central hub for music and art.
Art and Cultural Districts:
- Roma & Condesa: Known for their bohemian culture and cafes.
- Chapultepec Park: A central park containing museums and a castle, serving as a recreational area for citizens.
Modern Economic Districts:
- Santa Fe & Polanco: Feature modern skylines and host headquarters of foreign companies.
- REFORMA Street: An iconic financial and cultural street.

Mexico City has undergone a dramatic transformation from the heart of the Aztec civilization to a modern megacity.

Strengths: Rich historical legacy from Tenochtitlan and the colonial era, deep cultural heritage with diverse arts, festivals, and cuisine, and significant economic influence as a hub for Latin American economic institutions.
Challenges: Ground subsidence, water shortages, air pollution, and housing issues are major challenges.
Future Strategy: Future strategies include sustainable water management and public transportation. They also involve protecting historic areas, expanding smart infrastructure, urban regeneration centered on arts and culture, and improving water infrastructure.