5 Interesting Culture Facts You Didn't Know About Mexico

Time flies when you’re having fun and when you’re on a trip to Mexico, it seems to be over before you know it. There is so much to take in when you vacation in any of the country’s 32 states, that it can be easy to overlook some of the Mexico culture facts you could learn along the way. While the sights are stunning and the food is delicious, if you truly want to embrace the vibrant Mexican culture, brush up on some interesting facts about Mexican culture before heading south of the border. With improved knowledge and a genuine interest in exploring your destination, you’ll be on your way to the best vacation of your life.

What is Mexican Culture?

Mexican culture is a beautiful blend of the country’s indiginous roots and its history of European conquest and colonization. Modern Mexican traditions are often based on the distinct history that lies in the hearts of the people.

From homages during the Day of the Dead in November to festivities marking the country’s independence in September, Mexico culture and traditions are celebrated in grandiose ways throughout the year.

If you happen to be vacationing in Mexico around one of the country’s holidays, you’ll witness vibrant costumes and decorations, folkloric dancing, delicious Mexican food culture, and the patriotic happiness that runs deep throughout the country. These rich Mexican traditions have encouraged people from around the world to visit the land once inhabited by the Aztecs and Mayans, and to embrace the changes brought about by Spanish colonization.

5 Interesting Facts about Mexico Culture and Traditions

Mexico is home to one of the new seven wonders of the world. Along with the Great Wall of China, the Roman Colosseum, the Taj Mahal, and others, Chichen Itza has left visitors mesmerized since it was erected in 600 A.D.. Since then, over 2.6 million people visit the ancient Mayan archeological site per year to stand in awe of its rich history and obvious magnificence. True of many of the country’s historical sites, the ancient ruins provide a powerful look into the Mexican cultural traditions that have marked the nation since its beginning.
If you find yourself asking, “what is Mexican culture?,” you may need to ask it in a variety of languages, 68 to be exact, which is the number of official languages recognized by the federal government. Of these 68 languages, there are over 300 different dialects spoken throughout the nation. While Spanish is the most widely spoken language in Mexico, especially in major tourist destinations, if you surround yourself by the Mexican cultural traditions of the indiginous population, which still makes up almost 15% of the total population, then you’re bound to hear some of these other languages in use.
One of the most interesting facts about Mexican culture is that the country is home to 34 of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) world heritage sites, 26 of which are owed entirely to the distinct Mexican culture, 6 to its natural beauty, and 2 to a mixture of the two. From the Agave Landscape and Ancient Industrial Facilities of Tequila to the Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque, the country is bursting with Mexican cultural traditions that are beloved world round.
Mexico food culture is not only mouthwatering, but it is also officially recognized as a piece of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In 2010, the organization added the popular cuisine to a list that the UN is committed to protecting due to its ties to the ancient world, its colorful identity, and the ancient technological processes that are still being used today. Mexico food culture is as diverse as the country’s 32 states, with each region offering a wealth of succulent dishes and exotic flavor profiles that are loved around the world.
Mexico culture facts are plentiful, but one you shouldn’t overlook relates to the land that so many Mexican traditions are based around. The country is one of the most bio-diverse on the planet, placing it alongside only 11 other countries who house 70% of the world’s species of flora and fauna. This special category of “mega-diverse” countries makes Mexico both stunning and unique. When you’re out and about on your next vacation, take a few moments to appreciate the diversity of the vegetation around you and the rich Mexico culture and traditions that go along with it.

If you find yourself asking “What is Mexican culture?,” simply look to the distinct history of the nation for answers. The unique blend of indiginous traditions with the country’s history of conquest and colonization has left behind a beautifully vibrant culture for all to enjoy. On your next vacation to Mexico, take time out of your day to learn a few interesting facts about Mexican culture, you’ll be grateful you did.