Welcome to the Top 10 Facts about Mexico! Mexico is a vibrant country with a long history and diverse culture. From its ancient ruins to its bustling cities, Mexico is full of fascinating places and experiences. From its traditional cuisine to its vibrant music, Mexico is a treasure trove of unique experiences.
So, let’s get started with our journey into the 10 most interesting facts about Mexico!
1. Mexico is a country in the continent of North America.
Mexico is south of the American State of Texas and lies within the continent of North America.
2. The official language of Mexico is Spanish.
Spanish is the first language 90% of Mexicans . There are also Mexicans who speak Native American languages, like Nahuatl, Maya, and Zapotec.
3. The Aztecs and Mayans settled in what we now know as Mexico.
Before the Europeans came, many Native American cultures existed in Mexico. The earliest were The Olmecs. The Mayans also settled in parts of Mexico and were most powerful between 200 and 900 A.D.
The Toltecs came next and they were succeeded by the Aztecs.
You can learn more about Mayans and Aztecs in our Top 10 Facts.
4. Mexico has mountains, rainforests and desert.
Mexico is a big country with lots of very different areas. There are high mountains and deep canyons in the middle of the country, you’ll find deserts in the north, and rainforests in the south and east.
Find out more about rainforests in our video below.
5. The National Dish of Mexico is Mole Poblano.
Mole poblano is considered to be the national dish of Mexico.
Mole Poblano is a thick, rich red or brown sauce made with chillis, fruit, nuts, seeds and Mexican chocolate. There are many different types of mole made throughout Mexico. Mole poblano hails from Puebla, which is an area of Mexico famous for its delicious food.
Would you try this dish?
6. Day of the Dead is a big celebration in Mexico.
Day of the Dead comes from the ancient Aztec custom of celebrating ancestors. The celebration is celebrating on the 1st and 2nd of November.
Day of the Dead is a joyful time that helps families celebrate and remember those who have died.
You might know all about it because it is the holiday the movie Coco is set during!
7. Mexico’s National animal is The Golden Eagle.
You can even see it on the Mexican flag eating a snake!
8. Mexico’s real name is not Mexico.
Mexico’s real name is the United States of Mexico, or in Spanish it is Estados Unidos Mexicanos. The country is divided into 31 states, plus the Federal District.
Like the United States of America, each state has its own laws and police.
9. Mexican children don’t get gifts on Christmas Day.
Don’t worry though, children do get presents!
It’s usually on 24th December.
10. Mexico is home to the biggest pyramid.
You might be surprised to find out the biggest pyramid in the world is in Mexico not Egypt. The pyramid of Cholula in the Mexican Federal State Puebla happens to be the largest pyramid in the world.
📖 Words to know
- Continent
- A very large area of land. Mexico is in North America.
- Capital city
- The city where a country’s government is based. Mexico’s is Mexico City.
- Desert
- A place that gets very little rain. Much of northern Mexico is desert.
- Civilisation
- A large, organised society with its own cities and way of life — like the Maya and the Aztecs.
⚠️ Watch out!
How much do you know about Mexico?
Which continent is Mexico in?
- North America
- South America
- Asia
- Europe
What is the capital of Mexico?
- Mexico City
- Cancún
- Guadalajara
- Acapulco
Which ancient peoples lived in what is now Mexico?
- The Maya and the Aztecs
- The Romans and the Greeks
- The Vikings
- The Ancient Egyptians
Where in the world?
Mexico is in North America, sharing the continent with the USA and Canada.
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