Campaign Aims to Revitalize Engagement with Mexico City's Historic Core
Mexico City has officially launched a comprehensive heritage campaign, spearheaded by the Mexico City Historic Center Trust, designed to encourage both residents and visitors to reconnect with the capital's rich cultural and architectural heritage. The initiative, which includes a robust schedule of activities for 2026, focuses on fostering a deeper appreciation for the historic heart of the city.
Exploring Centuries of History Through Iconic Churches
A central component of the campaign involves organized visits to more than 40 churches within the historic center, with some structures dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. These sacred sites are not only architectural marvels but also repositories of significant historical events and artistic treasures. The program aims to highlight their preservation and ongoing cultural and spiritual importance in modern-day Mexico City.
Among the highlighted sites is La Profesa Church, an iconic landmark in downtown Mexico City. Originally founded by the Jesuits in 1610, La Profesa has witnessed a tumultuous history, including an uprising in 1847 that left bullet holes in its walls, a devastating fire, and severe damage from an earthquake in 2017. Rebuilt in 1714 by renowned architect Pedro de Arrieta, the church is celebrated for preserving a remarkable collection of original paintings and religious relics, showcasing heritage spanning from the 17th to the 21st centuries.
Broader Initiatives and Community Engagement
The heritage campaign is part of a broader effort by the Mexico City Historic Center Trust, which operates under the municipal government. In addition to church visits, the initiative encompasses a total of 26 cultural activities planned throughout 2026. These efforts also include promoting workshops and exhibitions, such as one celebrating the 700th anniversary of the founding of Tenochtitlan, the ancient Aztec capital upon which Mexico City was built. The Trust also publishes the magazine Kilómetro Cero, which highlights hidden gems in surrounding neighborhoods.
The campaign specifically seeks to engage young people, encouraging them to take an interest in their own heritage and fostering a collective sense of pride in the city's historical sites. The Historic Center itself, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is recognized as the oldest neighborhood and the largest downtown in Latin America, with its history tracing back to the founding of Tenochtitlán in 1325.
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