Xochimilco: World Heritage Site and Living Heart of the Chinampas
In 1987, the chinampa area of Xochimilco was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Xochimilco is the ancient place of flowers and the last region in the Anahuac Basin where chinampas survive.
Chinampas are artificial islands built by Mesoamerican cultures, especially the Mexica (Aztecs), in lake areas such as Lake Xochimilco, in Mexico City.
This agricultural system consists of:
✅ Building platforms with layers of mud, aquatic vegetation (such as tule), and woven poles over the water.
✅ Surrounding them with trees called ahuejotes, which help keep the structure firm.
✅ Growing crops such as corn, beans, chili peppers, flowers, vegetables, and medicinal herbs on them.
They are an example of sustainable agriculture and respect for ecological balance. They have been cultivated continuously for more than 700 years and are essential for preserving local biodiversity, such as the famous axolotl, an endemic species.
Discover a sample of the 37 most representative festivals, including the blessing of the animals, the raising of the Holy Child, and the celebration of the Most Beautiful Flower of the Ejido.
Experience how its inhabitants preserve a deep and expressive spirituality manifested in their customs and rituals, which are carried out with great local tradition and respect.
