1. You have landed in Mexico City, Mexico. Use these resources to fill out your tourist map and learn about Mexico’s rich culture.

2. The culture of Mexico blends contributions from its Native American and Spanish cultures that shaped the country’s history.

3. Before the Spanish arrived in 1521, the Aztecs and other native groups lived in Mexico. Descendants, or future generations, of these indigenous, or native, people still make up a large part of the population. The largest population group is the mestizos, which are Mexicans of mixed ancestry. This can include native, European, and African family roots.

5. This castle is located on Chapultepec Hill. It has been an important part of Mexico’s history since before Europeans arrived in Mexico. This site is the final resting place for Aztec emperors, an ancient civilization of Mexico. It was said to be magical. This castle has been home to an emperor, as well as all of Mexico’s presidents until 1940. The castle is now a National History Museum. Four countries have occupied this site- the Aztec nation, Spain, France, and Mexico.

7. This statue is located in Paseo de la Reforma, and is a symbol of Mexico. Porfirio Diaz began the monument in 1902. It was designed by architect Antonio Rivas Mercado. The statue was built to honor the heroes of Mexico’s Independence. There are four sculptures at the base of the statue that represent Peace, Law, Justice, and War. The base holds the remains of some of Mexico’s historical heroes, including Miguel Hidalgo.

9. This is a center of culture for all of Mexico. It is located in the center of the city. This builders of the site wanted to celebrate the Centennial of the Mexican War of Independence in 1910. The Mexican Revolution caused construction to be delayed until 1932. The building houses murals by Diego Rivera and other artists, as well as theater, musical, and dance performances.

11. This is the main plaza, or square, in the center of Mexico City. The site was once called Plaza de la Constitucion, or Constitution Square. This location has been a gathering spot for Mexicans since the times of the Aztecs. Many ceremonies, parades, celebrations, and festivals have been held here since then. Each September Mexico celebrates the anniversary of its independence in the Zocalo. The size makes this one of the largest city squares in the world.

12. As seen in the sites of Mexico City, the cultures of Mexico and its past are blended. This can also be seen in the many languages and religions of the country. 9 out of 10 Mexicans only speak Spanish, but there are over 50 natives languages still spoken here.

13. 90% of Mexico’s people follow the Roman Catholic religion, a denomination of Christianity. Many Native Americans practice traditional religions. These beliefs have blended together in different customs, like Day of the Dead.

15. This is a holiday that honors one’s ancestors. It mixes native and Catholic traditions. It is celebrated October 31-November 2. Families build alters called ofrendas to honor the deceased, displaying favorite items, food, and pictures of their loved ones. Families also visit gravesites.

17. Mexico was once rural, but has become an urban nation. More than ¾ of its population live in cities. Mexico City is one of the world’s largest cities, and has 1/5 of the country’s population.

18. Mexico’s cooking still includes foods of its indigenous people: corn, beans, and squash. Corn is ground to make tortillas.

19. In Mexico girl’s celebrate their fifteenth birthday will a big party. They dress in fancy dresses and invite family and friends. This is a religious and social event.