Capital
Mexico City
Population
130.2 Million
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Language
Spanish
Area
1,964,375 km²
National Dish
Mole Poblano
National Flower
Dahlia
Density
66/km²
Internet TLD
.mx
Mexico was home to advanced pre-Columbian civilizations, including the Maya and the Aztecs, who built Tenochtitlan before Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés conquered the empire in 1521. Independence from Spain was declared on September 16, 1810, leading to a decade-long war. Following the Mexican Revolution (1910–1920) which established the modern constitution, Mexico developed into a major North American industrial power.
Mexico has a population of approximately 130 million, making it the most populous Spanish-speaking nation in the world. The population is primarily Mestizo (mixed Spanish and indigenous descent, about 62%), followed by indigenous peoples (about 21%). Spanish is the official national language, alongside 68 recognized indigenous languages. The population is highly urbanized, with over 79% living in cities.
Mexico features dramatic landscapes including deserts, tropical rainforests, volcanic peaks, and over 9,000 km of coastline along the Pacific and Caribbean. The Sierra Madre mountain ranges run through the country. The Yucatán Peninsula is famous for its limestone cenotes. Mexico sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire with numerous active volcanoes.
Mexican culture is a rich blend of Indigenous (Maya, Aztec) and Spanish colonial influences. Mexican cuisine — tacos, mole, tamales — is UNESCO-listed. Music genres like mariachi and ranchera are beloved. Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) is one of the most iconic celebrations. Muralism by artists like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo's art are national treasures.
Mexico has the second-largest economy in Latin America. Manufacturing (automobiles, electronics) is a major sector, boosted by trade agreements with the US and Canada. Mexico is also a significant oil producer and a top destination for tourism. Agriculture, mining, and remittances contribute substantially to the economy.
Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá and Tulum, relax on the beaches of Cancún and Puerto Vallarta, explore Mexico City's museums and food scene, and discover the colonial charm of Oaxaca and San Miguel de Allende. The copper canyons of Chihuahua rival the Grand Canyon in scale.
Mexico City is built on the ruins of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan.
Mexico introduced chocolate, corn, and chili peppers to the world.
Mexico has 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Chihuahua dog breed is named after a Mexican state.
Mexico is the world's largest producer of silver.
The Day of the Dead is a vibrant celebration honoring deceased loved ones.
The capital of Mexico is Mexico City, which serves as the political, cultural, and administrative heart of the nation.
The primary or official language spoken in Mexico is Spanish, used across national education, government, and media.
Mexico is recognized for its unique geography in North America, its official currency, the Mexican Peso (MXN), and iconic locations such as Chichen Itza Mayan ruins.