I firmly believe in the link between countries' history and their ability to develop a rich, world-influential culture and design scene. With human activity documented in the area from as early as 9000 BC and roots stretching back to 1325 CE, when the Aztec people established what was then known as Tenochtitlan on an island in Lake Texcoco, it doesn't surprise that Mexico City, which now occupies nearly the entirety of its drained basin, has grown into one of the most authentic creative hubs in the world. A place where craftspeople, artists, designers, and architects flock to in search of inspiration and an artistic community to belong to. That's precisely why anyone interested in discovering the best things to do in Mexico City should first find a minute to appreciate its storied past.
If today, the destination is home to some of the best design hotels, acclaimed artistic institutions, UNESCO heritage-protected landmarks, and trailblazing artisan studios, it is largely because of what came before. It is on the ruins of Tenochtitlan that the Spanish conquistadors laid the foundations for present-day Mexico City, which, established in 1524, went on to become the country's largest metropolis and capital.
