Country | Mexico |
Population | 9209944 |
Time Zone | UTC−06:00 (CST) |
Coordinates | 19.42847, -99.12766 |
Highest elevation | 2,240 m (7,350 ft) |
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City Description
Mexico City, officially known as Ciudad de México (CDMX), is the capital and largest city of Mexico. It stands as the most populous city in North America, with a 2020 population of 9,209,944 within its city limits and an expansive metropolitan area housing over 21.8 million residents. This makes it one of the largest urban agglomerations globally, the second largest in the Western Hemisphere, and the largest Spanish-speaking city in the world.
Situated in the Valley of Mexico at an altitude of 2,240 meters (7,350 feet), Mexico City is divided into 16 boroughs or demarcaciones territoriales, which further split into neighborhoods known as colonies. The city has a land area of 1,495 square kilometers (577 square miles).
Mexico City was founded as Tenochtitlan by the Mexica people in 1325 on islands within Lake Texcoco. After the Spanish conquest in 1521, the city was almost entirely destroyed and then rebuilt following Spanish urban design standards. It became a major hub within the Spanish colonial empire, serving as a political, administrative, and financial center. In 1824, Mexico City was designated as the federal district following the country’s independence from Spain. In 2016, it transitioned from being known as the Federal District (Distrito Federal) to Ciudad de México (CDMX), granting it greater autonomy while still functioning as the nation’s capital.
Economically, Mexico City is a powerhouse, responsible for generating 15.8% of Mexico’s GDP and approximately 22% of the country’s total economic output. If it were an independent country, it would have ranked as the fifth-largest economy in Latin America in 2013. The city is home to the main offices of major corporations and international businesses, and hosts key financial institutions such as the Mexico City Stock Exchange.
Culturally, Mexico City is a prominent global center. It boasts an array of historical and modern attractions, including the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Chapultepec Park, and the Zócalo, one of the largest public squares in the world. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and historic landmarks that trace its rich heritage from the Aztec empire through to contemporary times.
The city also leads in progressive policies, having legalized elective abortions, a limited form of euthanasia, no-fault divorce, same-sex marriage, and legal gender change, showcasing its forward-thinking legislative framework. Politically, Mexico City has been a stronghold for left-wing parties, with governance focusing on progressive urban policies.
In terms of infrastructure, Mexico City is served by one of the busiest airports in Latin America, the Benito Juárez International Airport. The city has an extensive public transportation network, including the Mexico City Metro, one of the largest and busiest metro systems worldwide. Despite facing challenges such as air pollution and traffic congestion, the city’s extensive and evolving infrastructure continues to support its status as a major global city.
Overall, Mexico City is a dynamic metropolis that blends its rich historical legacy with modern economic and cultural significance, making it a central hub in both Mexico and the global landscape.
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