What are some fun facts for Mexico, that you need to know! Or maybe you just are looking for some interesting facts to entertain you?
Like did you know that Mexico is home to the world’s oldest ball game?
Or that Mexico isn’t the official name of the country?
And those are just a couple of the facts of Mexico that we have gathered!
Below you will find over 100 more Mexico facts for travelers, kids, and more.
These cover everything from Mexico Culture, to some amazing facts about Mexico City.
Interesting Mexico Facts
Mexico Became a Country In 1821
Mexico was not always a country. It used to be part of the Spanish Empire. In 1821, Mexico gained its independence from Spain and became a country.
Mexico is Home to The Oldest University In North America
The University of Mexico, founded in 1551, is the oldest in North America.
What does “Mexico” Mean? No one knows
The exact origin of the word “Mexico” is unknown, but there are several theories about its derivation. One theory suggests that the word is derived from the Nahuatl (a Uto-Aztecan language) word “mēxihco”, which means “in the middle of the water”. Another theory claims that the word is a corruption of the Spanish word “méjico”, which means “place of the Mexica people”.
Mexico Ranks as the 4th Largest Nation In the Americas
Mexico is the 4th Largest Nation In the Americas. The country’s population of around 128 million people makes it one of the most populated countries in Latin America.
Mexico Is the Largest Producer of Tequila
Mexico is the largest producer of tequila in the world. It produces more than any other country except Spain.
The Aztecs Were the First Civilization to Grow Corn
The Aztecs grew corn as early as 900 AD. This was before the Egyptians, who had been growing corn for thousands of years. The Aztecs also used maize to make tortillas, tamales, and other foods.
California, New Mexico, and Texas Were Once Part of Mexico
The United States gained its current territory by annexing the Republic of Texas in 1845. The Mexican Cession following the Mexican-American War in 1848, and the Gadsden Purchase in 1853.
It might be why some of the best things to do in Ruidoso New Mexico seem a little Mexican.
15 Facts About Mexico For Travelers
The pyramid of Cholula, in Mexico, is the World’s Largest Pyramid
The Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl (Nahuatl for “artificial mountain”), is a large pre-Columbian pyramid. And it was built by the city of Cholula, Puebla.
The Great Pyramid stands 70 meters (230 ft) high,[1] making it taller than any other building in what is now Mexico.
Mexico is Most Traveled Country in Latin America
According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), Mexico was the most visited tourist destination in Latin America in 2016. About 39.3 million international tourists visited Mexico last year, up from 37.5 million in 2015. This accounted for 31 percent of all international tourist arrivals in Latin America in 2016. So if you are planning on travel to Mexico. Get ready for more tourist.
Mexico’s premier tourist destinations are its coastal resorts and ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins. In 2016, the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. And Yucatan accounted for most international tourist arrivals (58 percent and 15 percent, respectively). Other popular Mexican tourist destinations include Mexico City, Campeche, Chiapas, and Oaxaca.
An Important Facts for Mexico. Is Mexico a Melting Pot
Mexico is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world living there. This mixing of cultures has led to the development of a unique Mexican culture that is a blend of all the different cultures that make up the country.
Mexico is home to the Volcano Rabbit. A very Rare Species.
The volcano rabbit is a rare species of rabbit that can only be found in Mexico. This rabbit is so rare that it was only discovered in the late 1970s. The volcano rabbit is a small rabbit that has a thick coat of fur that helps it to survive in the cold temperatures of the Mexican volcanoes.
The Mayans Built Pyramids
The Mayan people lived in Central America during the Classic Period (AD 250-900). They developed an advanced culture with impressive architecture, astronomy, mathematics, and writing systems. Their cities were large and complex, with pyramidal structures called “pyramids” at their centers. These pyramids were made out of limestone blocks and covered by temples and palaces.
Chichen Itza is One of the Seven Wonders of the World
The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza is one of the seven wonders of the world in the modern era. It is in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Chichen Itza was built by the Mayans in the early 1000s AD.
The first place to use the word “taco” in print was in 1891
The first place to use the word “taco” in print was in 1891. It was written by a Mexican American cookbook author, who wrote: “A taco is made of corn tortillas folded over and filled with meat, which is then rolled up.”
We can’t confirm this, but we’re pretty sure that everyone who reads this will now think about how delicious tacos are for the rest of their lives!
60% of Mexico’s annual GDP comes from its service sector
When people think of Mexico, they often think of the country’s rich history and culture. But one thing that might surprise you is that Mexico is a service economy. Over 60% of its GDP comes from this sector, which includes things like tourism and trade in services like education, health care, and banking.
10 Facts About Mexico Beaches
Every Beach In Mexico is a Public Beach
By law, every beach in Mexico is a public beach. Yep, there are no private beaches in Mexico.
Mexico has thousands of miles of coastline
Did you know Mexico has over 7,000 miles of coastline? That’s a lot of beaches. We know the beaches in Mexico for their clear waters and sandy shores.
The climate varies depending on where you go
The climate varies depending on where you go. Mexico is a tropical country, with hot weather year-round. The Yucatán Peninsula is arid, with temperatures that soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. In contrast, the Pacific coast has a milder climate thanks to its proximity to the ocean.
Caribbean beaches have the beautiful water, but extremely warm and humid weather
Mexico’s beaches are not as sunny and warm as the Caribbean ones, but they have a tropical climate. The reason for this is that Mexico is located further south than the Caribbean islands. So the temperatures are closer to those of Central America and South America. You can expect warmer weather on Mexican beaches than on their Caribbean counterparts.
Cancun is famous for its beaches, but it also has festivals, shopping, and nightlife
Mexico is famous for its beaches, but it also has festivals, shopping, and nightlife.
Cancun is one of Mexico’s most popular beach destinations. It has a wide range of activities to enjoy, including snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and visiting Mayan ruins. You’ll also find great shopping in Cancun’s open-air markets and nightlife entertainment. Like live music and dancing at nightclubs or bars along the beachfront promenade strip called “The Strip”.
Playa del Carmen has a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful white sand beaches
Playa del Carmen has a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful white sand beaches. Isla Mujeres is an island off the coast of Cancun. It is a remarkable place to visit.
Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination, with many resorts and hotels
We also know the city for its beautiful beaches, which are frequented by both Mexican tourists and visitors from abroad.
Is la Holbox features a long sandy beach with crystal clear water
Holbox is a small island off the coast of Cancun and is known for its beautiful beaches. This beach has crystal clear water that is good for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Zihuatanejo is a peaceful fishing village.
Zihuatanejo is a peaceful fishing village. And it is known for its seafood restaurants, great snorkeling, and calm waters. The best time to visit is during the dry season (December through May).
50 Facts About Mexico City
Mexico City Ranks 2nd for a City With the Largest Number of Museums.
Mexico City has 136 museums, second only to London. They divide these museums into categories, such as art, history, science, and archaeology. What a crazy facts of Mexico, that I didn’t know!
Mexico Has More Taxi Cabs Than Any Other Country In the World.
Mexico City is home to the world’s largest fleet of taxis. As of 2009, there were over 238,000 registered taxis in the city or one taxi for every 20 residents.
Mexico City Was Built on a Lake. And it is Sinking
One extraordinary fact about Mexico is where Mexico City is. The Aztecs founded Mexico City on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco in 1325. They built the city on a system of chinampas, or artificial islands, which were created by building up layers of mud and vegetation. And the city gradually sank as they built it on swampy ground, and around 12cm of the city sinks into the lake every year.
Mexico City is Built on the Ancient Ruins of Tenochtitlan
The Aztec capital of tenochtitlán was founded on a small island in Lake Texcoco in 1325. The city grew rapidly, and by 1521, when the Spanish arrived, it was the largest city in the Americas, with a population of over 200,000. The Spaniards destroyed the city and built their capital, Mexico City, on the ruins.
The First Public Park in the Americas Was in Mexico City
They established the first public park in the Americas in Mexico City in 1592. The park, called the Alameda, was created to provide a public space where people could gather and enjoy nature.
More than half of Mexicans live in urban areas.
According to the United Nations, nearly 50% of Mexicans live in cities. That means that almost half of the population lives in an area with at least 1 million people.
Mexico Borders Many Countries
Mexico is one of the largest countries in Latin America. It borders the US, Guatemala, Belize, and El Salvador. It also shares land borders with Canada and the Caribbean Sea. Yep, you can get to the islands in the Caribbean via Mexico.
Mexico City is one of the Largest Cities in the World
Yes, Mexico City is the 5th largest city in the world with an estimated population of 21 million people. Wow that is a lot of people!
Mexico City has important archaeological sites.
Did you know that Mexico City once had many archaeological sites? But has lost some because of urbanization. The great pyramids of Teotihuacan and the Mayan city of Chichen Itza are both near Mexico City.
Mexico City is one of the biggest Latin American cities.
Mexico City is the largest city in Mexico and the capital of the state of Mexico. It is also one of the largest cities in the world by population, with a population of 24.3 million as of 2010.
The city covers an area of 1,485 square miles (3,891 square kilometers) or 699 square miles (1,800 square kilometers) including its suburbs.
There are 5 major districts in Mexico City – Downtown and Reforma
The city is divided into five major districts. And there are many markets in Mexico to explore.
Downtown and Reforma
The area surrounding the Zocalo plaza is home to many of Mexico City’s most important landmarks. We also know this area as Centro Histórico (Old Town). And includes Chapultepec Park and its museums. Such as the Palace of Fine Arts, the National Auditorium, and the Anthropology Museum.
The other 3 are 3. Centro Histórico (Old Town) · 4. Polanco · 5. Coyoacán.
The volcano Popocatepetl, which is near Mexico City, erupted in 2000
Popocatepetl is an active volcano in the state of Puebla, near Mexico City. It’s one of the largest volcanoes in Mexico and has erupted several times since its first recorded eruption in 1464. In 2000, Popocatepetl erupted for nearly 2 weeks and spewed ash into the air as far as 1,000 kilometers away from the crater. This caused local flights to be canceled and emergency measures to be taken throughout central Mexico.
The center of Mexico City has many temples and churches that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
In the center of Mexico City, you can find many temples and churches that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Many people visit these buildings to worship, but others go just because they’re beautiful.
One example is Templo Mayor (also known as Templo Mayor Museum), which was built between 1325 and 1521 CE by the Aztecs.
It’s one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites, as it was where human sacrifices were made by Aztec priests every day for over 500 years. Another example is Santuario de Guadalupe Church. Which has been standing since 1709 CE and holds an image said to be an apparition of the Virgin Mary on its rear wall (or “retablo”).
The National Palace houses a mural by Diego Rivera depicting pre-Columbian culture through to modern times.
The National Palace houses a mural by Diego Rivera that depicts pre-Columbian culture through to modern times. President Plutarco Elias Calles commissioned the murals in 1927. And Rivera worked on them for three years before being expelled from the country. He returned and completed the job in 1935.
Mexico City has a rich cultural and natural history.
Mexico City is one of the oldest cities in the Americas, dating back to the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan. In 1521, Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes conquered the city and renamed it Mexico City. Today it’s home to almost 9 million people and is one of the largest cities on earth!
You can Climb Some Nearby Volcanoes
You can climb nearby volcanoes. The Popocatepetl is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico, which makes it a popular destination for climbers. The volcano is on the Mexico-Puebla state line in central Mexico, just 40 miles southeast of Southern Mexico City.
The Iztaccihuatl is another nearby mountain range that offers opportunities for hikers. And mountaineers alike take in breathtaking views from its peaks and ridges. Hikers will be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Atitlan. And several other lakes and surrounding cities like Antigua or Oaxaca City are over 8,000 feet above sea level!
The Largest Park in Latin America. A Nice Facts For Mexico
It’s called Chapultepec Park, and it covers over 800 hectares (4000 acres) of land. They created it during the colonial era, but it was only in the 19th century that its current design took shape.
The park is home to many museums. Including Chapultepec Castle, which houses a collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts. There are also two lakes within the park. Like Lake España and Lake Atzcapotzalco-the latter one being used as an ice skating rink from December through February!
Voted the World’s #1 City Visit By New York Times in 2016
Mexico City is one of the most popular cities in the world. The New York Times voted it “The World’s #1 City to Visit” in 2016. The reason Mexico City is so famous is. And recognized as an attractive destination because of its rich culture, history, and heritage. It is a city that attracts millions of tourists every year. But first you need to research” Is Mexico City Safe?”
Mexico City Is One of the World’s Richest Cities
In terms of GDP per capita, it’s almost $20,000 higher than New York City ($50,431) and over three times that of San Francisco ($18,132). The Mexican capital also has the highest number of billionaires in Latin America. Which is more than 100 according to Forbes magazine.
Mexico City Has The Oldest Street in the Americas
The Oldest Street in the Americas
There are several ways to get from A to B in Mexico City. Whether you’re planning on renting a car, taking a taxi, or riding the metro, it helps to know what routes are best suited for your trip? But if you want to discover some hidden gems along the way, there’s no better way than walking on foot. And never mind that sidewalks are often narrow and full of potholes!
The Callejon de La Capilla is one such street with an astonishing history: two Jesuit priests who arrived in New Spain (now Mexico) built it in 1572. To avoid thieves and bandits while they were traveling through this area, they built a secret path connecting their mission house with another private residence nearby. Thus began construction on what would become Callejon de La Capilla.
Mexico City is Home to 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
As a city with 4 UNESCO World Heritage Site (e.g., the Historic Center of Mexico City, Teotihuacan, and Tulum), it’s no wonder that Mexico City is such an important cultural hub in Central America.
The City was Founded by the Spanish
The City was established by the Spanish: in 1519, Hernan Cortés and his troops took control of this area.
It became Mexico’s capital in 1821: when Mexico gained independence from Spain; the city became its capital.
It has the second largest population in Latin America. With over 21 million people living there; it is the largest city in Latin America behind Sao Paulo (Brazil).
Mexico City Has the only Royal Castle in the Americas
The Royal Palace of Madrid is not the only castle in the Americas. The palace of Chapultepec, built in 1521, was home to Spanish royalty until the end of their rule over Mexico. Now it is one of Mexico City’s most famous attractions, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We have also used it as a military academy since 1792. And currently houses several museums. Including those dedicated to Mexican history, arms and armor, and even art history!
It is home to The World’s Largest University
The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México is the largest university in the world (and one of the oldest). It has over 350,000 students and faculties spread across 11 campuses.
The Central Square is The Second Largest on the Planet
In the center of Mexico City, there is a large open space called Central Square. This space is enormous and has many things going on in it. It is also the second largest public square on earth!
Mexico City Was The First City to Host the World Cup Twice
The first city to host the World Cup twice in Mexico City, which hosted the tournament in 1970 and 1986
Mexico Facts for Kids
The First Color TV Color Invented by a Mexican.
A Mexican named Guillermo González Camarena invented the color TV. He developed the first color TV system in the world in 1954.
Mexico is home to over 2,000 species of butterflies.
The Monarch butterfly is the best known of the Mexican butterflies. We find them in many parts of the country. But the best place to see them is the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve near the town of Angangueo, in the state of Michoacan.
Mexico is where the Meteor That Killed Dinosaurs Hit.
According to a study published in the journal Nature Communications, the meteorite that wiped out the dinosaurs struck Mexico.
The study, conducted by a team of international scientists, used a new technique to analyze the impact crater left behind by the asteroid.
They found that the crater, in the Gulf of Mexico, which isn’t too far from all the things to do in Galveston TX. And is much smaller than the one left by the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs 65 million years ago.
This suggests that the asteroid was traveling much slower when it hit Earth, meaning that it had more time to cause damage.
Children in Mexico, Don’t Get Presents on Christmas Day
Contrary to popular belief, Mexican children rarely receive presents on Christmas day. Rather, Christmas is a time for celebration and spending time with family, and they typically give gifts out on Epiphany (January 6th).
Mexico Is One of the Six Cradles of Civilization
We consider the ancient cultures of Mesoamerica and South America to be some of the most advanced and complex of their time.
Mexico is thought to be one of the six cradles of civilization. Because of the development of the Olmec culture in the region. We credit this culture with the development of many of the important aspects of Mesoamerican culture. Including the use of hieroglyphs, the construction of pyramids, and ceremonial centers. As well as introducing complex mathematics and astronomy.
The Second Longest Border In the World is The Border Between the USA and Mexico
How many miles is the US-Mexico border? It’s almost 2,000 miles long, at 1,933 miles long. Making it the second longest border in the world. A side fun fact is that the longest border in the world is just north. It is the border between USA and Canada.
In Mexico, They Passed the World’s First Climate Change Bill in the Developed World.
On April 20, 2012, The Mexican Senate has passed the developing world’s first climate change law.
Mexico is the second largest Spanish-speaking nation in the world.
Besides being one of the top five countries with the highest number of immigrants living in the U.S.
Mexico is also home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
These include Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Acapulco, and Cozumel.
Mexico has a War Named the Pastry War
The Pastry War was a conflict fought between Mexico and France in 1838 (Speaking of pasties, there is a great pastry quotes about France). They fought the war over a dispute regarding payments for French goods that were imported into Mexico. Mexico’s refusal to pay the agreed-upon prices angered the French. And they responded by invading Mexico and occupying the capital city of Mexico City. The Mexican army could eventually push the French out of the country, and the war ended in a Mexican victory.
Facts About Mexico Culture
the Aztecs Invented the Oldest Known Ballgame
The Aztecs invented the oldest known ballgame, which was played as early as 1400 BC.
They played the game with a rubber ball and two teams of players. The object of the game was to keep the ball in the air and score goals by hitting it through a hoop. And the game was called Mesoamerican Ball Game and was played with a rubber ball.
The Mexican Flag is symbolic of the Aztec Empire
The symbol in the center of the Mexican flag is symbolic of the Aztec empire. The flag has three vertical stripes green, white, and red. Green symbolizes freedom and independence. The white color is for the Roman Catholic religion. And the red is for the union.
They Drink a lot of Coca-cola in Mexico.
In Mexico, Coca-Cola has been a part of the culture for over a century. Mexicans drink more Coca-Cola per capita than any other country in the world. This is one of the well known facts of Mexico.
In Mexico, there are over 69 Distinct Languages Spoken
The official language of Mexico is Spanish, but there are also 69 other indigenous languages spoken in different parts of the country.
the Aztecs Believed Smallpox Was a Sent from God
The Aztecs thought that smallpox was a punishment from God for their sins.
Mexican Cuisine is a UNESCO Cultural Heritage.
On December 4, 2017, they inscribed Mexican cuisine as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. The recognition highlights the importance of Mexican cuisine. And as an expression of national identity and a vehicle for social inclusion.
The First Conquest of Mexico Happened in 1519
The first conquest of Mexico was in 1519 by the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés. He and his men landed in Mexico on April 22, 1519, and fought their way to the capital, Tenochtitlan, over the next several months. The Spanish were ultimately successful in defeating the Aztec Empire and conquering Mexico.
Officially, The First Global Currency Was The Mexican Silver peso
Mexican silver pesos were the first global currency because they were Spanish coins. We used them all over the world for trade and commerce. Since Spain was the first global empire.
the Aztecs Were An Amazing and Advanced Culture
The Aztecs were amazing people who were known for their many accomplishments. They were a very advanced society with a rich culture that was clear in their art, music, and architecture. They also had a powerful military that could conquer a large area of land.
Mexican Food is More Than Just Tacos
Mexican food is much more than just tacos. Tacos are a tiny part of Mexican cuisine. There are a variety of dishes that are popular in Mexico. Including enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos, and chile Rellenos. These dishes are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and they are all packed with flavor.
Chihuahuas are Named after the Mexican State Named Chihuahuas
The Mexican state of Chihuahua is named after the Chihuahua breed of dog. The breed is named for the state, and they named the state for the breed. This is one of the funniest facts of Mexico to me.
There are more churches in Mexico City than there are at McDonald’s restaurants.
There are over 2,500 churches in Mexico City alone. This makes sense because the country has one of the largest Christian populations in Latin America.
The Spanish Conquered Mexico
The Spanish conquered Mexico in 1521 after defeating the Aztec Empire. They brought with them new crops such as wheat, barley, and maize. These crops allowed the Spaniards to feed themselves and their horses.
The national sport of Mexico is charreria which is Mexico’s version of rodeo.
Charreria is a rodeo-type sport, where people are trying to stay on top of a bull and not get hurt. There are many rules, such as not touching the bull’s horns or twisting your wrist while riding it.
The goal of this sport is not to kill the bull but to catch it first by grabbing its tail with your hand before getting off. It is not exactly bullfighting but resembles it.
Mexico has a rich and diverse art scene, And The famous artist is Frida Kahlo
Mexico is a country known for its rich and diverse art scene. However, its most famous artist is Frida Kahlo, who was born in Mexico City, which has some of the best partying in Mexico. But grew up in Coyoacán (a borough of Mexico City).
Her paintings capture the struggles of being a woman who did not fit into society’s expectations of what women should be like. Many of her paintings display images of herself with a unibrow and thick lips; she wore these traits as symbols of strength and pride.
More Fun Facts of Mexico
- Mexico has Officially been Named the united Mexican states. It is an interesting fact that most people don’t know.
- The 16th of September is Grito de Dolores. And is Mexico’s Independence Day.
- Both Mexico and Costa Rica were colonized by the Spanish Empire.
- The Sierra Madre Mountain Range is the largest protected area in the country.
- Cinco De Mayo is Celebrated All Over the World
What did you think of this facts? Did it make you consider visiting this amazing country? I hope you enjoyed these amazing facts of Mexico.