Ixtapaluca, Mexico

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Ixtapaluca, Mexico

Region: Mexico


Geographic Coordinates: 19.318600, -98.882200
Temperature Range: 5.0°C to 30.0°C (41°F to 86°F)
Population: 542211
Language: Spanish

Ixtapaluca is a municipality and city situated in the eastern part of the State of Mexico, Mexico. The name Ixtapaluca has its roots in the Nahuatl language and translates to place where salt is made. The area has a rich history that goes back to pre-Hispanic times, With evidence of settlements from various ancient cultures such as Teotihuacan and Mexica. The city boasts beautiful colonial architecture that can be seen in its numerous churches and buildings. One of the most prominent structures in Ixtapaluca is the Church of San Francisco de Asis, Constructed by Franciscan monks in 1552.

The church features intricate carvings and frescoes that depict scenes from biblical stories. Ixtapaluca also offers several natural attractions that are popular among tourists. Lake Texcoco covers an area of over 1, 000 square kilometers and provides habitats for various species of birds and fish. Visitors can take boat tours around the lake or go fishing for carp or tilapia. La Marquesa National Park is another popular attraction covering an area over 3, 000 hectares featuring hiking trails through forests and mountains along with picnic areas where visitors can relax amidst stunning natural scenery.

Apart from cultural heritage & natural beauty, Ixtapaluca’s economy thrives on agriculture & industry producing crops like corn, Beans, Wheat tomatoes onions peppers among others while manufacturing industries like textiles factories are also present. yet importantly it’s worth mentioning that Ixtapaluca hosts several festivals throughout the year celebrating local traditions such as Dia de los Muertos (Day of Dead) which takes place on November 1st-2nd every year featuring parades music dancing traditional foods like tamales & pan de muerto.

Ixtapaluca is a city offering visitors a unique blend of history culture natural beauty modern industry whether interested in exploring ancient ruins or hiking through mountains enjoying local cuisine or shopping in modern malls Ixtapaluca has something for everyone to enjoy.



Important Landmarks

  1. Parque Ecologico Xalli – a natural park with hiking trails and picnic areas.
  2. Plaza Sendero – a shopping center with various stores and restaurants.
  3. San Francisco de Asis Church – a historic church built in the 16th century.
  4. Museo Casa de la Cultura – a museum showcasing local art and culture.
  5. Balneario Las Estacas – a water park with pools and slides for all ages to enjoy.
  6. Cerro del Elefante – a hill that offers panoramic views of the city.
  7. La Marquesa National Park – located nearby, this park is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
  8. Tezontle Park – Another natural park where visitors can enjoy walking trails and scenic views of the surrounding area.

Primary Industries

  1. Manufacturing: Ixtapaluca has a significant manufacturing industry that includes the production of textiles, clothing, furniture, and automotive parts.
  2. Agriculture: The region is known for its agricultural production of corn, beans, vegetables, and fruits.
  3. Retail: There are numerous small businesses and markets in Ixtapaluca that sell a variety of goods including food products, clothing, electronics among others.
  4. Services: The service industry is also growing in Ixtapaluca with the presence of banks, hospitals and other professional services like accounting firms.
  5. Tourism: The town has many historical landmarks such as churches and museums that attract tourists from all over Mexico as well as international travelers who come to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Noteable History

  1. The town of Ixtapaluca has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century when it was founded by the Mexica people. Later, it was conquered by the Spanish.
  2. Tenango del Valle, located near Ixtapaluca, witnessed a major battle between Hernán Cortés and his army against the Aztecs in 1520.
  3. During Mexico’s War of Independence in the early 19th century, Ixtapaluca played a crucial role as a center for resistance against Spanish rule.
  4. Emiliano Zapata, one of Mexico’s most renowned revolutionary leaders, spent time in Ixtapaluca during his campaign to overthrow Porfirio Díaz’s government.
  5. In 1968, students protesting against government corruption and inequality were brutally attacked by police at Tlatelolco Square in Mexico City. Many sought refuge in nearby towns like Ixtapaluca.
  6. Juan Manuel Márquez is considered one of Mexico’s greatest boxers and has won multiple world championships while hailing from Iztapalapa.
  7. La Malinche was an indigenous woman who served as an interpreter for Hernán Cortés during his conquest of Mexico; she was born near modern-day Ixtapaluca and her legacy remains controversial to this day.
  8. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared before San Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill which is located near to Ixtapaluca. This event led to her being venerated as Our Lady Of Guadulupe, the patron saint of Mexico.

Museums and Things To See

  1. Museo de la Cultura Tlahuica
  2. Centro Cultural Mexiquense Bicentenario
  3. Parque Ecológico Xochitla
  4. Templo y Exconvento de San Francisco
  5. Monumento a los Niños Héroes de Chapultepec
  6. Santuario del Señor de Chalma
  7. Casa de la Cultura Ixtapaluca
  8. Mercado Artesanal Ixtapaluca
  9. Iglesia del Divino Salvador
  10. Parque Nacional Molino de Flores Nezahualcóyotl



Cultural Events

  1. Fiesta de San Francisco de Asís: This festival is celebrated in October to honor the patron saint of Ixtapaluca with processions, music, and traditional dances.
  2. Feria del Elote: This corn festival takes place in August and features food stands selling dishes made from fresh corn, along with live music and cultural performances.
  3. Festival Cultural y Deportivo de la Juventud: This event celebrates youth culture with various activities including sports tournaments, concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions.
  4. Festival del Día de Muertos: Ixtapaluca’s Day of the Dead celebration includes altars dedicated to deceased loved ones, parades with colorful floats and costumes, traditional foods like pan de muerto (bread of the dead), and live music.
  5. Carnaval Ixtapaluca: Held in February or March each year before Lent begins, this carnival features vibrant parades with dancers wearing elaborate costumes and masks representing different cultural traditions from around Mexico.
  6. Feria Nacional del Burro y el Mezcal: This national fair celebrates two important symbols of Mexican culture – donkeys (burros) and mezcal (a type of tequila). Visitors can enjoy tastings of mezcal from local distilleries while watching donkey races or attending concerts by popular musicians.
  7. Festival Internacional de Cine en Ixtapaluca: This film festival showcases independent movies from around the world as well as workshops for aspiring filmmakers to learn more about the craft.

Cuisine

  • Tacos de Barbacoa Los Primos: This restaurant is famous for its delicious barbacoa tacos.
  • La Cocina de Dona Chuyita: This restaurant serves traditional Mexican dishes such as mole, tamales, and chiles rellenos.
  • El Rey del Pollo: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in chicken dishes such as rotisserie chicken and fried chicken.
  • Taqueria Los Compadres: This taqueria is known for its tasty tacos al pastor and carne asada.
  • La Casa del Mole Poblano: This restaurant serves different varieties of mole sauce including the traditional Poblano mole.
  • Mariscos El Camaroncito: Seafood lovers can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes at this restaurant including ceviche and shrimp cocktails.
  • El Rincon de los Antojitos Mexicanos: This casual eatery offers a variety of Mexican street food such as quesadillas, sopes, and tostadas.
  • Taqueria Los Cachetes de Oro: Another great place to try authentic Mexican tacos with various fillings like chorizo or lengua (tongue).

  • Parks and Recreation

    1. Parque Ecologico Xochiaca
    2. Parque Ecológico San Buenaventura
    3. Parque Recreativo Los Heroes
    4. Parque Deportivo La Laguna
    5. Centro Deportivo y Cultural Ixtapaluca
    6. Ciclopista de Ixtapaluca
    7. Unidad Deportiva Santa Barbara
    8. Plaza Sendero Ixtapaluca (shopping and entertainment center with a movie theater, bowling alley, and arcade)

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