About mexico city

Slideshow: Mexico City Architecture

Established nearly 700 years ago, Mexico City has been home to indigenous populations and Spanish colonial rule, and is today a modern, cosmopolitan and diverse city of nearly 10 million residents. The greater Mexico City metropolitan area, which includes several surrounding municipalities (known as the Federal District of Mexico), totals 22 million residents.

Mexico City is located near the southern end of the plateau of Anáhuac in Central Mexico, at an altitude of 7,800 ft. The city is surrounded by mountains, featuring the magnificent peaks of Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl. Because of the City's altitude, it enjoys a mild and dry climate year-round.

Mexico City is the political, economic, commercial and cultural capital of Mexico. It welcomes more than 12 million visitors a year, including both business executives from the United States and around the world and leisure travelers looking to discover the city's rich history, culture and sophisticated urban environment.

To many first-time visitors, the vastness of Mexico City can seem overwhelming. There are numerous historic and cultural attractions and many parks, entertainment and recreational facilities. Nearly every type of international cuisine can be enjoyed. There is a variety of shopping centers, from modern malls to neighborhood markets and handicraft shops. As is the case with major urban centers around the world, Mexico City has many distinct neighborhoods. A modern subway system links these neighborhoods and extends into the city's vast suburban areas.

Experience a year of celebration

During 2010, Mexico celebrates its 200th anniversary of independence from Spain. A number of special events and anniversary commemorations are being planned to take place in Mexico City throughout the year.

Experience a world of business

Mexico City offers a wide range of business services for visitors coming to the city to attend international conferences, congresses, exhibitions and trade fairs. The city has modern hotels, conventions centers and business services. English is widely spoken in both business centers and major tourism attractions.

Mexico City is home to Mexican federal government offices and agencies, and it has vibrant banking, business services, tourism and transportation sectors. There are world-class universities, hospitals and medical centers, private institutions, foundations and hundreds of multinational corporations.

Experience a world of culture

Mexico City is home to great artistic and cultural happenings. Beyond the city's many great museums, which feature some of the world's most important archeological collections, there is a diverse cultural lifestyle, including theaters, art galleries, performing arts, films, dance, music, nightclubs and modern sports facilities. Many important works of art by Mexican icons Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo can be seen throughout the city.