This post discusses fun and peculiar Mexico facts. Enjoy!
___
There is no way to deny it. I love Mexico!
When I lived in Puerto Rico, I knew very little about the country. Once I moved to California, I had the opportunity to befriend Mexicans, visit cities in Baja California and take cheap flights to visit places such Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca.
Every interaction, every step and every bite in the country opened my eyes to a new story, a new fact, a new way of life. The energy in there makes me happy!
Even though I try to visit Mexico as often as possible, I know there is still a lot I have to see. I dream with visits to Oaxaca, Campeche, and Guanajuato. I am in plans of taking an extended trip around the country.
In the meanwhile, I have compiled 50 interesting, fun and quirky Mexico facts. Because, to me, talking about Mexico never gets boring!
So, let’s go ahead and learn a little bit more about Mexico. Shall we?
1. The country’s official name is “Estados Unidos Mexicanos” or United Mexican States.
2. It is the 13th largest country in the world by total area. It covers almost two million square kilometers (760,000 square miles).
3. Even though the country is huge, at one point, it was larger than Europe. After a war with the United States, Mexico lost more than half of its territory.
4. Mexico is the country with the 10th largest population in the world with 127.5 million inhabitants. If you think about it, there are more Mexicans in the world than Germans, French or Spaniards.
5. The word “Mexico” comes from the Nahuatl, the language spoken in the Aztec Empire. The word means “land of the Mexica.” Others suggest the word means “place at the center of the moon” or “belly button of the moon.
6. It is the most populous Spanish speaking nation in the world.
7. Even though Spanish is the de facto language in the country, about 300 languages are spoken in the territory. Of those, the government recognizes 68.
8. The country is composed of 31 states and a federal entity (Distrito Federal) which serves as the capital (and, by the way, it is the most populous city in the country).
9. Interestingly enough, the capital of the country was built over a dry lake (Lake Texcoco). The instability of the terrain is causing the city to sink with time (it is sinking slowly but still sinking)
10. In terms of national symbols, dahlias are the national flower, the golden eagle is the national animal, the jaguar is the national mammal and the grasshopper is the national arthropod.
11. And, to make things interesting, the xoloitzcuintli is the national dog. These dogs are hairless and were sacred to the Aztecs and other groups.
12. Government officials claim Mexico City has more museums than any other city in the world. Officials say there are about 170 registered entities. However, this title seems to be disputed and there is not an international organism that deals with this issue.
13. Mexico seems to love Guinness World Records. As a matter of fact, Mexico City is the city in Latin America with more recognized records. For example, it holds the record for more people dancing to Michael Jackson’s classic, Thriller (not sure how they came up with this).
14. Chapultepec Park, the lungs of Mexico City, is almost double the size of the Central Park in New York
15. Chihuahua is the largest state in the country in terms of size
16. Tlaxcala, a virtually unknown state, is the smallest in the country (size wise)
17. Mexico is the country with more UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Americas and the 7th in the world. At the moment, it has 34 sites recognized by UNESCO and more than 20 in the tentative list.
18. Mexican gastronomy was recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010.
19. Ingredients such as a corn, peppers, beans, pumpkin, avocado, tomatoes, cacao, sweet potatoes are native to the Americas and they are featured prominently in Mexican gastronomy. In some ways, we can say Mexico gave to the world all of these.
20. The food of Mexico is distinguished by its variety. Each state or area has their own specialties. However, a lot of us associate Mexico with tacos, enchiladas, menudo, pozole, mole, aguas frescas and champurrado. This is just a short list. It would be necessary to a visit each state to get to know what is popular there.
21. Insects have been eaten in Mexico for centuries. Till this day, people eat escamoles (ant larvae), jumiles (stink bugs), chapulines (grasshoppers), chicatanas (ants), maguey worms, beetles and others
22. In addition, huitlacoche is sometimes known as the Mexican truffle. This is a disease that grows on the ears of corn in puffy, gray clouds. Those “clouds” are collected and sautéed or prepared in stews
23. Tamales are one of the most emblematic dishes of Mexico. Each state has a way of preparing them. One particular example, the zacahuil, can be 5 meters long.
24. The well-known poinsettia has origins in Mexico. It was named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first US ambassador in Mexico.
25. Mexico is the 4th country with more biodiversity on earth. This fact makes the country a flora and fauna paradise.
26. Mexico is the largest silver producer in the world.
27. Believe it or not, Mexico is the country with more soda consumption in the world. Seems like people prefer a soda over water.
28. The Autonomic University of Mexico (a UNESCO Site) has been around since 1551. It was the first in America to offer classes in medicine, theology, arts, etc.
29. The National Institute of Anthropology and History has registered more than 37,000 archeological sites in Mexico.
30. The most well-known archeological sites include Teotihuacan, Chichen Itza, Monte Alban, Uxmal, and Palenque. I recommend visiting other lesser known sites. They are fascinating too!
31. Scholars recognized the Olmecs as the first great civilization in Mexico. They peaked between 1200 and 300 B.C. and inhabited the modern states of Veracruz and Tabasco
32. Other notable civilizations include the Toltec, Mixtec, Zapotec, Maya, and Aztec. They arose to power at different points in time
33. The Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the world.
34. Mexico spent three centuries under Spain’s control until independence in 1821
35. As you may know, Chihuahuas are from Mexico. They are considered the smaller dogs in the world but they are named after the largest state in the country.
36. Mexico gets about 35 million international visitors per year. Resort areas such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas receive a big share of those visitors
37. Mexico has more than 40 volcanoes. The most active ones are Popocatepetl, Colima and El Chichon.
38. The world’s smallest volcano (Cuexcomate) is located in a suburb of the city of Puebla.
39. And, I am not done with volcanoes! Paricutin (located in Michoacan) is the world’s younger volcano
40. The monarch butterfly travels more than 4,000 kilometers to spend winter in Michoacan and the state of Mexico. The conglomerate of millions of them has been described as one of the greatest natural spectacles in the world.
41. The gray whales travel to Mexico during winter too. They leave the waters of Alaska to have their babies in the shallow lagoons of Baja California. They do the longest mammal migration in the world.
42. Color television was invented by a Mexican, Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena
43. Several Mexican painters from the 20th century have gained international fame. The list includes names such as Jose Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.
44. Family ties are very strong in Mexico
45. The Yucatan Peninsula has the largest concentration of natural sinkholes in the world. They are known as “cenotes.”
46. In the state of Colima, there is a spot known as the Magic Zone. In this place, there is a road with a notable slope. Objects placed on the road (including cars) move uphill instead of downhill (as you would expect). Nobody seems to know why that happens.
47. The Peninsula of Baja California was thought to be an island during the early colonial period
48. The famous Caesar salad was invented in Tijuana. You can visit the hotel where the dish was conceived
49. Futbol (soccer) is most popular sport in Mexico. It was introduced to the country by Cornish miners at the end of the 19th century (near Pachuca).
50. The country has 111 Pueblos Magicos (or Magical Towns). These places are characterized by its legends, stories, important events, gastronomy, and charm.
What is your favorite Mexico fact? Is there something else you want to add?
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
What a great post!
Thanks for linking up at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2018/04/appalachian-artistry.html
Kelleyn Rothaermel says
The water looks unreal! We have been a couple times to Mexico, but always apart of a tour when we are on cruises. Would love to do the west coast!
Charles McCool (McCool Travel) says
Wonderful facts about Mexico. I enjoyed learning a bit more about my neighbor country.
beatravelling says
I love Mexico too, especially the food – to die for!! Had such a great time in Mexico City. #wanderfulwednesday
California Globetrotter says
Wow this was really enjoyable to read! So much I didn’t know and found fascinating! From the UNESCO sites to even the Pointsetta! #WanderfulWednesday
Rachel says
Wow, I did not know the vast majority of these facts and I definitely feel I have learned something today! Mexico just sounds like such a cool place to visit, I’m disappointed I haven’t managed to go yet. One day! When I visit, I’ll be most excited to see all the interesting historical sites, and eat lots of delicious Mexican food.
Lisa says
I loooved Mexico when I went there last year so it was great to learn a little more about the country. That’s a really great list of interesting facts! #FarawayFiles
Daniel says
Outstanding list of Mexico facts! I’m always baffled by #48, that Caesar Salads were invented in Mexico. I bet most people don’t know about that one. Thank you for sharing these. #farawayfiles
jill says
I have to admit that I only knew two of your facts so I learned quite alot from this post – I did know that Mexico City is sinking and that their family ties are close. I just returned from a beach trip where a large family from Mexico – I asked them where they were from – was enjoying each other’s company and the beach. (They looked like they were having so much fun and it was so enjoyable to watch them. ) I’ve only been to Mexico twice and that was on cruises so I guess I have alot of traveling to do!
Jessica says
Very interesting facts! I did notice that Mexicans drank a LOT of soda, of all different flavors. I ended up drinking a lot of it myself so as not to drink the water (but I got sick anyways 🙁 ). I haven’t been to Mexico in a long time, I’d love to return! Thanks for reminding me what a great country it is. #FarawayFiles
jesh stg says
When we lived in Southern Calif. (it does make a difference with N. Cal.!) we ate a lot of Mex. food, maybe that’s why we never went – also we had several Latin friends. Thank you for hosting!! I did know the last fact:)
Sandra says
Very interesting facts! I had no idea about the most of the things you wrote about. But the biggest surprise to me was #21
#TravelPhotoThursday
Claire says
I only found out about the Caesar salad when a celebrity chef here did a TV road trip through Mexico. I’ve only spent two days in Mexico City on a stopover, would love to see more of the country!
Sarah says
I still haven’t been to Mexico but I’m hoping the time is coming soon! I didn’t know it was so biodiverse as to be the 4th most biodiverse in the world! That is pretty cool – and something I’d like to see in person!
Katherine says
OK, you forced me to look up the xoloitzcuintli. I had no idea that there were hairless dogs as well as hairless cats! And I’m dreaming up ways to even pronounce this breed’s name. You have helped me hit my “fascination” quotient for the day. Much obliged! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Sarah says
Awesome post! I love Mexico too and have had the chance to spend a lot of time there. I fell in love with the country and the people, and love to share my experiences there! #weekendwanderlust
Goblinette says
300 languages and Spanish? Wow. #WeekendWanderlust
Sharon says
What a collection of facts! What surprised me is the number of languages — 300! And more than 60 are recognized the by government. I had no idea. You did a great job putting together all these fascinating facts!
Anda says
You are right, Ruth, Mexico never gets boring. There is so much energy in this country! We used to go there every year in the past, but then we decided to go visit other countries as well. I had no idea about any of these interesting facts that you mention here, so thank you for educating me. This a very informative post! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Kylie says
So interesting! I learnt a lot!
Caity says
Love learning more about Mexico. I visited for the first time last year and I can’t wait to see more of the country! #flyawayfriday
Emese says
I love Mexico, too! 111 Magical Towns? I only visited one of them (Izama), I guess I have a way to go ;). And learned something else new: I didn’t know they had a national dog, the hairless one. Mexico is such an amazing country, with all the cultures and ancient sites, I’ll never get tired of it. Thanks for a great post about it!
Rhonda Albom says
I didn’t realize Mexico had the largest speaking population of all countries. I thought it was Spain but it makes sense when you compare the population numbers. And this is the first I’ve ever heard of a country having a national arthropod.
Angie (FeetDoTravel) says
We are heading to Mexico in October for Day of the Dead so these facts are awesome. I wonder if they will re-create the Guinness World Record of most people dancing to Thriller, I will definitely join in that! Love the historical facts as well (i.e its real name). Pinned to re-read just before we go. #feetdotravel
hilary says
Love this! We just returned from a visit to Mexico, my first, and I loved it! I hope to get back there sooner than later. I love all your photos, but would love captions, so I know where they are. Thank you for sharing on #farawayfiles
Lauren Barratt says
I have never been to Mexico but your facts and photos are making me want to jump on the plane right now!!
Kat says
I’d really LOVE to explore Mexico. A very good friend of mine was living and working in Mexico City for 1.5 years before he was transferred to London. He and his partner had invited me over to Mexico City but at that time I was busy with work and by the time, I considered making a trip to Mexico, he had to move to London 🙁 That said, I will make it to Mexico some day…hopefully soon! 🙂 #FarawayFiles
Tracy says
Well I have learnt a load of stuff I didn’t know about Mexico! My favourite it the magic zone – I would love to see that! It must be weird to see things roll up hill!!??
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Some really interesting facts about Mexico! I have sadly only visited once….on a day trip…but would love to explore some of the historical and cultural attractions in Mexico. I was surprised to hear that there were so many UNESCO sites here, makes me want to visit even more! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
Lots of really interesting facts here and loads I didn’t know. Mexico is one of those countries I’d love to visit. I’ver read so many wonderful novels set in Mexico and have loved films like Like Water for Chocolate that are set there. Thanks for sharing these on #FarawayFiles
Nili says
Interesting facts. I enjoyed reading that. I have never visited but would like to one day if I get the chance. Number 21 and 22 surprised me.
#feetdotravel
Nicole says
These facts were great. We are thinking of heading to Mexico City after Christmas and I’m excited to see all the Museums! Not sure if we will make it to 170 but we will get!
Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields says
We recently spent a month in Mexico. I loved the Yucatan Peninsula with its Mayan ruins but I have to say I found Puebla and Oaxaca quite stressful. I had no idea Mexico had so many people.
Nancie says
I’ve been to Mexico twice. I didn’t care much for Cancun. Although we did get to visit the pyramids, which I loved. My second trip was to Cabos San Lucas, which I loved. I’m thinking now that I’m back in Canada Mexico might be my next travel destination. I have my eye on Mexico City. I’d love to visit Chapultepec Park. Thanks for co-hosting. #TPThursday
Mariann Ong says
So many things to learn!! Who would have thought that Mexico was bigger than the whole of Europe at one point? Amazing information this article has. 🙂
Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says
Love these great cool facts about Mexico. I have heard the town of Colima “the magic zone” where you place an item down on the road and it moves uphill. I do like the other version of the what Mexico means, “belly button of the moon”. I enjoy visiting Mexico and know feel a little smarter with these known facts. Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel
Pat says
Very beautiful photos and interesting facts about Mexico, Ruth. I have enjoyed my visits there.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
Mmm…#20 made us hungry! My favorite fun fact about Mexico is that, traditionally, they exchange Christmas gifts on the Epiphany – when the Wise Men arrived in Bethlehem – January 6th. Having Mexican heritage, we would celebrate Christmas, but always exchange small gifts on the Epiphany, too. As a kid, that was a real win-win! 😉 Fun post, Ruth!
Codrut Turcanu says
This article makes everybody interested in travelling to get out there and visit Mexic, as well as for those who already been there, done it — to revisit! 🙂
Lisanne says
Mexico looks so cool! I would love to visit. Great post!!
Rachel Heller says
Beautiful photos and lots of fun facts about Mexico! Pinned!
Mary {The World Is A Book} says
I love Mexico too and it does have a lot to do with living in Southern CA. This was such a helpful and informative post. I learned so much about Mexico. Kinda makes me wish I was heading there soon. We’ve visited several times but mostly cruise port cities. I need to explore the Baja part and especially Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende have been high on my list.
Kana says
I didn’t know Mexico had that many UNESCO sites! That is so cool! I’m going back this September, this time to Riviera Maya, so I’m super excited to explore the Mayan ruins! Thanks for joining Fly Away Friday, hope to see you tomorrow for the 50th one – exciting things happening! xo
Janine Good says
Great post with some cool facts. When talking of the national dog, all I could think about was Dante in Coco! I would love to get to Mexico some day 🙂 Thank you for coming to Fly Away Friday! Hope to see you for our 50th link-up tomorrow!!
teektalks - USA Romantic places says
I love Mexico. especially the food and I would love to visit.
Carol Cochran says
There is not 50 cool and interesting facts there are 51 facts. 51 facts is you. you are really so funny and your 50 think is so interesting .
farenexus nexus says
Very interesting facts! I did notice that Mexicans drank a LOT of soda, of all different flavors. I ended up drinking a lot of it myself so as not to drink the water (but I got sick anyways
Swati Patel says
Really It was Surprising facts ever! I was completely unaware of them. I Must say you have done great work. You are an incredible writer. I Like the way that you describe the things…
Please keep sharing such blogs…
Thanks
Kat says
So much great info! We are learning Spanish in our homeschool (my husband speaks Spanish) and learning about the different spanish speaking countries. The kids will love these! Thank you!