mexican traditions essay

Essay on Mexican Culture

Students are often asked to write an essay on Mexican Culture in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

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100 Words Essay on Mexican Culture

Introduction to mexican culture.

Mexican culture is rich with history and color. It comes from ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Mayans. Today, it’s a mix of those traditions with influences from Spain and other countries. People in Mexico are known for their love of family, music, and food.

Festivals and Holidays

Mexico is famous for its lively festivals. One of the biggest is the Day of the Dead, where families remember loved ones who have passed away. They decorate altars and graves with bright flowers and offer favorite foods.

Traditional Mexican Food

Mexican food is known worldwide. Tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole come from here. Corn, beans, and chili peppers are important ingredients. Meals are often shared with family, making eating a social event.

Music and Dance

Music and dance are key parts of Mexican culture. Mariachi bands play guitars, violins, and trumpets. Folk dances tell stories of Mexico’s history. The colorful costumes and lively rhythms are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Art and Craft

Mexican art is famous for its bright colors and patterns. Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo are well-known artists. Crafts like pottery, weaving, and silverwork show Mexico’s creativity and skill.

Mexican culture is a tapestry of traditions that celebrate life. It’s a blend of history, art, food, and music that brings joy to people and makes Mexico unique.

250 Words Essay on Mexican Culture

Mexican culture is a rich blend of native traditions and Spanish influence. It is known for its colorful art, lively music, and strong family values. Mexico’s history shapes its culture, from ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs to the Spanish conquest.

Traditional Food

Mexican food is famous worldwide. Tacos, enchiladas, and tamales are just a few examples of the tasty dishes. Ingredients like corn, beans, and chili peppers are common. Families often gather to enjoy meals together, making food a central part of social life.

Festivals and Celebrations

Mexicans love to celebrate. One of the most famous events is the Day of the Dead, when people honor their loved ones who have passed away. There are also colorful parades, dances, and music. Christmas and Cinco de Mayo are other big celebrations full of joy and traditions.

Music and dance are vital in Mexican culture. Mariachi bands play lively tunes with violins, trumpets, and guitars. Folk dances tell stories of Mexico’s history and people. Young and old enjoy the rhythms and movements that make up Mexico’s musical heritage.

Family Values

In Mexico, family is everything. Relatives are very close and support each other. Big family gatherings with lots of food and laughter are common. Respect for parents and elders is taught from a young age, making family bonds very strong.

Mexican culture is a tapestry woven from history, food, celebrations, music, and family. It is a culture full of warmth, color, and life, inviting everyone to experience its beauty and traditions.

500 Words Essay on Mexican Culture

Mexican culture is a rich and colorful tapestry woven from a history that goes back thousands of years. It includes the traditions of the ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations, as well as influences from Spanish colonists who came to Mexico over 500 years ago. Today, Mexican culture is known around the world for its vibrant music, delicious food, and festive celebrations.

One of the most famous parts of Mexican culture is its food. Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors and colorful presentations. Dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales are enjoyed by people all over the world. The food is often made with corn, beans, and chili peppers, which are ingredients that have been used in Mexico for a very long time. In Mexico, families often cook together and share meals, which helps to keep their cultural traditions alive.

Mexicans love to celebrate, and they have many festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, which is a time when people remember and honor their loved ones who have passed away. During this festival, families create altars with photos, candles, and flowers, and they might also visit the graves of their relatives. Another important celebration is Mexican Independence Day on September 16th, which marks the day Mexico began its fight for freedom from Spain.

Music and dance are at the heart of Mexican social life. Mariachi bands, with their trumpets, violins, and guitars, are a common sight at parties and celebrations. Folk dances, such as the Jarabe Tapatío, often known as the Mexican Hat Dance, tell stories through movement and are performed wearing traditional costumes. These art forms not only provide entertainment but also help to pass down history and traditions from one generation to the next.

Art and Handicrafts

Mexican art is famous for its bright colors and intricate designs. Artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera have gained international fame for their paintings that often reflect Mexican history and culture. In addition to fine art, Mexico is also known for its handicrafts, including pottery, weaving, and silverwork. These items are not just beautiful; they are also important to the economy as they are sold to tourists and collectors.

Family is a very important part of life in Mexico. Many generations often live in the same house or neighborhood, and they support each other in daily life. Respect for elders is a key value, and children are taught to listen to and learn from their parents and grandparents. Family members celebrate important events together, such as birthdays and religious ceremonies, which helps to strengthen their bonds.

Mexican culture is a beautiful blend of history, art, food, and family. It is a culture that is both ancient and ever-changing, as new generations add their own stories to the rich tapestry that has been created over thousands of years. Understanding Mexican culture can help people from all over the world appreciate the diversity and depth of human traditions.

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Mexican culture: Customs and traditions

Mexican culture brings together elements of ancient Central-American heritage and European customs.

Population of Mexico

Languages of mexico, religions of mexico, values of the mexican people, mexican food, mexican arts, mexican fashion, doing business in mexico, mexican holidays and celebrations, additional resources and reading, bibliography.

Mexican culture has undergone a tremendous transformation in its recent history with varying impacts in different regions. Many Mexicans live in cities, but smaller rural communities still play a strong role in defining the country's collective vibrant community.

Mexico can trace some of its cultural heritage back to the Aztec and Maya peoples who once controlled much of Central America, but equally it owes a great deal to the colonial heritage from Spain. Many of the customs in Mexico can be traced back through one of these branches of history.

"Mexico's characteristics set it apart from other Spanish American nations. No other country among them has so actively traced its cultural origins [through] so dramatic a history to such deep roots; none has so thoroughly fused European and non-European cultural influences," wrote Peter Standish and Steven M. Bell in " Culture and customs of Mexico " (Greenwood, 2004).

Mexico is the 10th most populous country in the world, with over 128 million people according to the United States Census Bureau estimate published on July 1, 2021 . According to the Index Mundi , Mexico consists of several ethnic groups. The mestizo (meaning people of mixed indigenous Central American heritage and European heritage) group accounts for 62% of the population. Indigenous Central American or predominantly indigenous Central American people account for 21%, while 10% of the population has a mostly European background. These groups create a culture that is unique to Mexico. However Index Mundi notes that Mexico does not collect census data on ethnicity.

According to the Mexican National Institute of Statistics, Geography and Informatics (INEGI) the median age of the population is 29 years old, which is a jump up from 2015 when it was 27. Index Mundi adds that 26% of the population is under 14-years-old, just under 17% is 15 to 24, 41% is 25 to 54, a little over 8% is 55 to 64 and nearly 8% are 65 or older.

It's estimated that 81% of the total population of Mexico lives in urban areas with Mexico City alone having a population of nearly 22 million in the wider area, according to Index Mundi, making it the fifth most populous city in the world.

The overwhelming majority of Mexicans today speak Spanish. According to the CIA , Spanish is spoken by 93.8% of the Mexican population. About 5.4% of the population speaks Spanish as well as indigenous languages, such as Mayan, Nahuatl and other regional languages. Indigenous Mexican words have also become common in other languages, including English. For example, chocolate, coyote, tomato and avocado all originated in Nahuatl.

"Much of Mexican culture revolves around religious values and the church, as well as the concept of family and inclusiveness," said Talia Wagner , a marriage and family therapist in Los Angeles. Around 78% of Mexicans identify themselves as Catholic, according to the CIA, although many have incorporated pre-Hispanic Mayan elements as part of their faith. Some of this dates back to the first colonists looking to merge the approaches of Europe and Central America to bring Christianity to the region.

"Public ritual had always been essential to both pre-Columbian religion and Spanish Catholicism. Consequently, priests quickly introduced their aboriginal parishioners to religious plays, music, and festivals, especially at Easter and Corpus Christi, both of which celebrated the Holy Eucharist," wrote Linda A Curcio-Nagy, professor of history at the University of Nevada in " The Oxford History of Mexico " (Oxford University Press, 2010), edited by Michael C. Meyer and William H. Beezley.

Other Christian denominations represented in Mexico include Presbyterians, Jehovah's Witnesses, Seventh-Day Adventists, Mormons, Lutherans, Methodists, Baptists and Anglicans. There are also small communities of Muslims, Jews and Buddhists.

Especially outside of cities, families are typically large and Mexicans are very conscious of their responsibilities to immediate family members and extended family such as cousins and even close friends. Hosting parties at their homes plays a large part of Mexican life and making visitors feel comfortable is a large part of the values and customs of the country.

"Family units are usually large, with traditional gender roles and extensive family involvement from the external members who assist one another in day to day life," Wagner told Live Science. There is a strong connection among family members. "Parents are treated with a high degree of respect, as is the family in general and there may be constant struggle, especially for the growing children between individual wants and needs and those wants and needs of the family," added Wagner.

One large event in a Mexican family is the quinceañera. This is a celebration of a young lady's 15th birthday. It signifies the girl's journey from childhood to womanhood. The party includes an elaborate dress for the girl of honor, food, dancing, friends and families. Before the party there is often a mass at the girl's church. The girl is accompanied throughout the festivities by her damas (maids of honor) and chambelánes (chamberlains), according to Encyclopedia Britannica .

Mexican cuisine varies widely between regions, as each town has its own culinary traditions, according to "Mexico For You," a publication of the Mexican Cultural Institute of Washington, D.C. Tortillas and other food made from corn are common everywhere, though, as are pepper, tomatoes and beans. Rice is also a staple, according to History.com.

Many foods that originated in Mexico are popular worldwide, including avocados, chocolate and pumpkins, in fact Mexican food is one of the country's most popular cultural exports. "Salsa now outsells catsup in the United States and $5 billion worth of tortillas are sold internationally each year," wrote Robert Buffington, Suzanne B. Pasztor, and Don M. Coerver in " Mexico: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary Culture and History " (ABC-CLIO, 2004)

Mexico is known for its tequila, which is made from agave cactus that is well suited to the climate of central Mexico. Soda is a very popular drink in Mexico, as the country has a well-developed beverage industry.

Clay pottery, embroidered cotton garments, wool shawls and outer garments with angular designs, colorful baskets and rugs are some of the common items associated with Mexican folk art. Millennia-old traditions continue in silver-smithing, mosaics, textiles, pottery and basket-weaving, according to "Mexico For You."

The country is closely associated with the Mariachi style of folk music. Originated in the southern part of the state of Jalisco sometime in the 19th century, it involves a group of musicians — playing violins, guitars, basses, vihuelas (a five-string guitar) and trumpets — and wearing silver-studded charro suits and elaborate hats. "La Cucaracha" is a well-known Mariachi staple.

Two of Mexico's most famous artists are Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Their paintings include vibrant colors and depictions of life in Mexico. Rivera was a pioneer of Muralism, a movement that used expansive wall art to educate the people. Kahlo's work drew from personal pain and also the deep history of Mexico itself. "The work of Frida Kahlo (1907–54) is also steeped in Mexicanness, although it is primarily a record of her difficult life, marked in pain, disappointment, and loneliness," wrote Helen Delpar, a professor of history at the University of Alabama in " The Oxford History of Mexico " (Oxford University Press, 2010).

A mariachi band plays music in Puebla. Marichi music is a tradition that goes back to the 19th century.

Many may not think of Mexico as a place that fosters high fashion, but many fashion designers hail from Mexico, such as Jorge Duque and Julia y Renata. There is also a Mexico Fashion Week . In the cities, fashion in Mexico is influenced by international trends, so the typical urban Mexican dresses similar to people in Europe and the United States.

Traditional Mexican clothing for women includes a sleeveless tunic-like dress called a huipil, according to Don Quijote Spanish School. Originally, these cotton dresses were made very simple with garnishes of color. However, traditional Mexican women's clothing now regularly includes lots of ornate embroidery, often including images and patterns that have symbolic meaning attached to them.

One distinguishing article of traditional men's clothing is a large blanket cape called a sarape. Boots are also a wardrobe staple. The charro suit, with its origins as the outfit worn by Mexican cowboys, is most associated with Mariachi musicians. The suit is also an acceptable substitute for a tuxedo at formal events in Mexico. The charro suit includes the sombrero, a wide-brimmed hat that provides plenty of shade.

Mexico's currency is the peso. Almost 65% of the country's GDP comes from the service sector with industry making up 31% and agriculture contributing 3.6%, according to the CIA. Its primary agricultural products are sugar cane, maize, milk, oranges , sorghum, tomatoes, poultry, wheat, green chillies/peppers and eggs.

Mexican business culture tends to value personal relationships, a strong hierarchy and a clear consciousness of status, according to Santander . "Doing business of any sort is normally preceded by a period of socializing," wrote Peter Standish and Steven M. Bell in "Culture and customs of Mexico."

The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe , which is celebrated on Dec. 12, is a major Mexican holiday celebrating the appearance of the Virgin Mary to an indigenous Mexican in the first years of Spanish rule. She is the patron saint of the country. This is followed closely by Posadas, a nine-day celebration in which people re-enact Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem to search for a place to stay. Families go from door to door carrying candles and singing, asking for shelter until the owners open the door, at which point the party begins.

The Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), celebrated on Nov. 2, is a day set aside to remember and honor those who have died, according to the University of New Mexico. Carnival is also celebrated in many communities throughout Mexico to mark the period before Lent.

Independence Day , marking the country's separation from Spain in 1810, is celebrated on Sept. 16. Cinco de Mayo, which marks a Mexican military victory over the French in 1862, is more widely celebrated in the United States (as a beer promotion) than it is in Mexico.

Learn more about the colonial history of Mexico and Central America more widely by reading about one of the men who helped to shape events, Hernán Cortés .

If the culture and life of Central America before the arrival of European colonists is what interests you, then a deep dive into the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán is for you.

" Culture and customs of Mexico " by Peter Standish and Steven M. Bell (Greenwood, 2004)
" The Oxford History of Mexico " edited by Michael C. Meyer and William H. Beezley (Oxford University Press, 2010)
" Mexico: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary Culture and History " by Robert Buffington, Suzanne B. Pasztor, and Don M. Coerver (ABC-CLIO, 2004)
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week
"Mexico Business Practices" Santander Trade Markets
"Our Lady of Guadalupe" Catholic Online
" The History of Mexican Independence" Mexonline

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Jonathan is the Editor of All About History magazine, running the day to day operations of the brand. He has a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Leeds . He has previously worked as Editor of video game magazines games™ and X-ONE and tech magazines iCreate and Apps. He is currently based in Bournemouth, UK.

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Mexican Culture and History through Its National Holidays

Day of the Dead figures in Mexico.

Much can be learned about a nation by the events that appear on its calendar. National holidays provide insight into the values of a country while commemorating its history. Mexico today is the product of ancient Indian civilizations, European conquest, Catholic missionary efforts, two long and bloody revolutions, and many other wars. The encounter between European and indigenous, Catholic and pagan, and rich and poor has generated a unique culture in Mexico.

This lesson will focus on holidays that represent and commemorate Mexico's religious traditions, culture, and politics over the past five hundred years. The holidays celebrated by Mexico today exemplify the synthesis of ancient Mexican religion and Catholicism, and commemorate the struggles of Mexico's different social classes and ethnic groups. The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe ( Dia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe ) is a Catholic celebration of the appearance of the Virgin Mary to an Indian man in the first years of Spanish rule. The Day of the Dead ( El Dia de los Muertos ) is a celebration that has developed out of a combination of indigenous and Catholic rituals for honoring the deceased. Mexico's Independence Day commemorates The Cry of Dolores ( El Grito de Dolores ), when Mexico's rural poor began a fight to overthrow the Spanish in 1810. Finally, Cinco de Mayo , a celebration that continually grows in popularity in the United States, commemorates a Mexican military victory over the French in 1862.

Guiding Questions

What do some of Mexico's major holidays tell us about the country's religious and political history?

Learning Objectives

Identify the ethnic and religious influences on Mexican culture.

Understand the meaning and history of Dia de los Muertos, Dia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Grito de Dolores, and Cinco de Mayo.

Identify basic practices and traditions of Mexican religious and political holidays.

Lesson Plan Details

After Hernando Cortes conquered the Aztec Empire in 1521, Catholic missionaries swept into the area to convert the indigenous peoples. European efforts at evangelism were not always effective, especially when missionaries attempted to introduce the Christian faith and religious practices without alteration or adaptation to indigenous customs. However, the Aztecs did find elements of their own religion in some Catholic rituals. For example, the Aztecs were known (and feared by some other Indian communities) for their practice of human sacrifice. This ceremonial ritual of their religion made them receptive to the idea of consuming the flesh of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Furthermore, the Aztec worship of the goddess Tonantzin was transferred to the veneration of the Virgin Mary in the Catholic faith. Thus, a blending of Aztec customs and Catholic beliefs resulted in a distinctive Mexican religious culture. Within the first decade of Spanish rule, hundreds of thousands of native Mexicans converted to Catholicism. To learn more about Cortes' conquest of Mexico see the EDSITEment-reviewed Conquistadors .

El Dia de los Muertos

A common example of the fusion of Aztec and Catholic practices is evident throughout Mexico every autumn during the celebration of El Dia de los Muertos. Observed during the Catholic feasts of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day—November 1 and 2—this traditional Mexican holiday celebrates the two-day return of deceased relatives to their loved ones remaining on Earth. Honoring the dead is a 4,000 year old tradition in Mexico. Since Catholicism has become the dominant religion in Mexico, the festivities surrounding El Dia de los Muertos have absorbed certain Christian practices including the praying of the rosary. However, the observance of this tradition is more celebratory than somber. Death is something to be feared in Mexican culture, but Mexicans receive its threat with humor. Although a typical part of the celebration involves a candlelight vigil and La Llorada ('the weeping"), El Dia de los Muertos is an opportunity to laugh at death. This mockery is evident in the amusing skeletons and specialty foods that adorn the altars to the dead. These altars are erected by family members in cemeteries and can be elaborate or simple.

Our Lady of Guadalupe

The Catholic Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe has its origins in December of 1531. A recently converted Indian, Juan Diego, was traveling over Tepeyac Hill—the former site of an Aztec shrine to the goddess Tonantzin—outside of Mexico City. When Juan Diego reported to the local bishop that he had seen the mother of the Christian God on Tepeyac Hill and she addressed him in his native language and asked that a shrine be built for her at the site, Church officials were skeptical. Bishop Zumarraga asked the elderly Aztec to bring a sign of the apparition. Three days later, Juan Diego returned to the bishop and released a bundle of roses from his cloak, on which a colorful image of the Virgin Mary appeared. Stunned by the image and the abundance of roses in the middle of December, the bishop ordered that a shrine be erected. Subsequent bishops embellished the shrine and in 1904 it was given the status of a basilica. Today, Juan Diego's cloak is displayed above the altar in the Basilica of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Although other Marian apparitions have been reported throughout the centuries, the Catholic Church has not recognized the validity of every reported sighting. However, numerous popes have supported the authenticity of the appearance of the Lady of Guadalupe. In 1859 her feast day, December 12, became a Mexican national holiday. For a detailed chronology of Catholicism in Mexico, visit Our Lady of Guadalupe , accessible through the EDSITEment-reviewed Latin American Network Information Center. Almost three centuries after Juan Diego's experience on Tepeyac Hill, a makeshift army of Mexican peasants carried an image of the Lady of Guadalupe as they prepared to fight Spanish authorities for Mexico's independence.

El Grito de Dolores

The celebration of Mexican independence is September 16, the anniversary of El Grito de Dolores . In 1810, two years after Napoleon conquered Spain and placed his brother Joseph on the throne, a Catholic priest in the small central Mexican town of Dolores called together his parishioners and rallied them to overthrow the Spanish. The speech of Father Miguel Hidalgo became known as " El Grito de Dolores " (The Cry of Dolores). The Indian peasants of Father Hidalgo's parish were not the only Mexicans discontent with Spanish rule. The Creoles, Spaniards born in Mexico, were not afforded the same opportunities available to the Peninsulares, Spaniards born in Spain. Thus, Indians were organizing to overthrow oppressive landowners in central Mexico just as the Creoles were planning to overthrow the Peninsulares who were pledging allegiance to the newly imposed French king. The next decade became a bloodbath of class struggle. Father Hidalgo, and subsequently his successor Father Jose Maria Morelos, were captured and executed by loyalist forces. In 1821, however, conservatives aligned with the Indian uprising and Mexico's independence was won. In 1823, Mexico became a republic. Although multiple factions within Mexican society had fought for over ten years, the call for action by Father Hidalgo in 1810 is recognized as Mexico's Independence Day. But Mexico's war for independence would not be the last time the country would battle Europeans on its own soil. For further background on the fight for Mexican independence see the background history on the EDSITEment-reviewed website for the award-winning documentary, U.S.-Mexican War.

Cinco de Mayo

In 1861 a three year civil war ended with a victory for Mexico's liberals and the election of Benito Juarez as president. Conservatives, resistant to the reforms of Juarez's government, called on Europe for help. While England and Spain saw an opportunity to demand repayment of debts incurred during the Mexican-American War, which had ended in 1848, France planned to use the turmoil in Mexico as a chance to expand their empire. As Napoleon III sent an army to Mexico, England and Spain abandoned their financial demands. In May of 1862, the French invasion force met the Mexican army at the town of Puebla in central Mexico. After four hours of fighting the Mexicans emerged victorious. The Battle of Puebla proved to be more of a morale boost than anything else, as the French went on to seize the entire country and install the Austrian nobleman Maximilian von Hapsburg as emperor. Juarez's forces continued the struggle against French occupation, and in 1867 Napoleon III gave up and called his army home. Juarez had Emperor Maximilian executed. The anniversary of Mexico's defeat of a formidable French force on May 5, 1862 became a yearly commemoration of heroism, celebrated most fervently in the region of Puebla. Information on Mexico's history and the lives of important historical figures can be accessed through the EDSITEment-reviewed site from the National History Museum in Mexico City.

Review the lesson plan and the websites used throughout. Locate and bookmark suggested materials and websites. Download and print out documents you will use and duplicate copies as necessary for student viewing.
Students can access the primary source materials and some of the activity materials via the EDSITEment LaunchPad .

Activity 1. Comparing El Grito de Dolores and Cinco de Mayo

This activity introduces two important dates and events in Mexican history. Students will research and discuss the basic elements of El Grito de Dolores , September 16th, and Cinco de Mayo , May 5th. The goal is to help students understand what the holidays are commemorating and which important events took place on each occasion, but also to emphasize the historical differences between the two holidays.

Begin the activity by asking if there are students in the classroom who have celebrated these holidays either in Mexico or in the U.S. Ask them to describe how they celebrated with their friends and family. Ask how their family interprets each holiday, how it has significance in their culture, and what it means to them now.

If students are not familiar with these holidays, ask them to look at the historical background to Mexico's Independence Day celebrations. Students can also find more information on Mexican Independence on the EDSITEment-reviewed U.S.-Mexican War documentary website.

Be sure that students note that when Father Hidalgo led the Indians and the "mestizo" forces against the Spanish, he used an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe as a revolutionary banner. This helps to demonstrate the link between religion and politics in Mexican history.

Next, ask students to view the following pictures from the EDSITEment-reviewed Getty website of Mexico's Centennial Celebration held in September, 1910. The questions that follow each picture can be used to generate class discussion.

Leading the Independence Day Parade, Mexico City (September, 1910)

Why are these men wearing military armor from the 16th century? What do they represent?

Indian Parade, Mexico City (September, 1910)

Why is it important for Indians in their traditional dress to be a part of Mexico's Independence Day parade? What part did the Indians play in the struggle for independence from Spain?

Emperor Montezuma, Mexico City (September, 1910)

Why do you think the famous Aztec ruler Montezuma is part of the Independence Day celebration? What do you think he represents to Mexicans?

Centenary Celebration, Mexico City (September, 1910)

This is the Centenary Celebration of Independence, and it is also the year the Mexican Revolution started. This was the first Modern Revolution of the twentieth century.
In the festive lights on this building, why do you think the word " Libertad " (liberty), placed below the date 1810, has been paired with the word " Progreso " (progress) below 1910, when the picture was taken? What is the significance of the placement of the word " Paz " (peace) in the middle, between the other two?

Finally, conclude this activity by asking the students to consider the following questions:

Which of the two holidays, El Grito de Dolores or Cinco de Mayo is similar to the Fourth of July in the United States?
Which of the two holidays appears to be more popular in the United States?
Do you think Cinco De Mayo has become more popular in the U.S. than it is in Mexico?

Activity 2. Dia de Nuestra Señora De Guadalupe

The story of Dia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe , celebrated on December 12th, recounts the moment in the history of Mexico and the Roman Catholic Church when the Catholic faith entered into the hearts of the Mexican people. At first the Spanish missionaries encountered difficulties converting the indigenous people. According to tradition, it was not until Juan Diego, an Indian peasant farmer, was blessed with the vision and later the image of the Virgin Mary and brought evidence of his miraculous vision that the Church began to take a firm hold on the Mexican people.

The goal of this activity is to help students understand the significance of this appearance of the Virgin Mary in the form of an Indian maiden, not only in a religious context but also in a historical context. Begin by directing students to explore the Our Lady of Guadalupe: Patroness of the Americas website, accessible from the EDSITEment-reviewed Latin American Network Information Center. They should pay particular attention to the pages devoted to Juan Diego and to the apparitions and the images of Our Lady of Guadalupe. They should also examine some of the images of the Basilica that was built as a shrine to the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Note that this site also includes some online videos of the image and the Basilica.

When they have explored the historical context for the holiday, ask them to look at some further information on the holiday celebration on the MEXonline website.

After students have become familiar with the story of Juan Diego and the appearance of the Virgin, ask them to consider the following questions about this important Mexican holiday:

What sort of man was Juan Diego?
Why do you think the Virgin Mary appeared to him?
How do you think Juan Diego perceived the image of the Virgin Mary?
Why was it important that the Virgin Mary resembled the indigenous people in Diego's vision?
How do these images of Our Lady of Guadalupe respond specifically to the Mexican-Catholic faith?
Why do you suppose Father Hidalgo used an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe as a banner during the Mexican revolution of 1810?
Do you see a link between the significance of the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Revolution?
Can you think of any holidays celebrated in the United States that are similar to the Dia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe ?

Activity 3. An altar for Los Muertos

This activity introduces students to the dedicative altars that are made on El Dia De Los Muertos . This holiday, celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day, can be compared in some of its aspects to the American celebration of Halloween, or All Hallows' Eve. But there are some distinctive differences in the practices and customs of the Mexican holiday that should not be missed when students look more closely at the celebration of the Day of the Dead.

Again, this is an opportunity to ask if any students in the classroom have ever celebrated this holiday. This is an effective way to begin to dispel some of the pre-conceived notions the holiday may give rise to. Mexico's celebration of these special days dedicated to the departed are merry and festive days that allow for visits with deceased relatives and loved ones. On this day, Mexican people believe that the dead walk among them joining them in festival and eating the treats that are left for them.

One of the most distinctive features of the celebration of the Day of the Dead is the altar where family members leave their offerings or ofrendas , the goods set out on the altars, consisting of flowers (both real and paper), pictures, pastries, treats, and possessions of sentimental value. The altars themselves are intended to commemorate the deceased relative and welcome them home again.

The goal of this lesson is to encourage students to enter into the spirit of the celebration and to understand the significance of the altars and the offerings to departed loved ones and relatives. The MexicoConnect website, accessible from the EDSITEment-reviewed Latin American Network Information Center, has a page of links dedicated to the Day of the Dead which students can explore to learn more about the celebrations and traditions of the holiday. Among the best resources are the following:

The Day of the Dead
Los Dias de los Muertos (The Days of the Dead)
Dia de Muertos:The Dead Come to Life in Mexican Folk Art
A Journey With La Calaca A Día de los Muertos Experience

Additional images of Day of the Dead celebrations are also available:

Photo Essay 147 - Day of the Dead, A Mexican Tradition
Photo Strip 84 - Day of the Dead Altars, Chiapas, Mexico
Photo Strip 86 - Day of the Dead Figurines, Chiapas, Mexico
Photo Strip 82 - Altars and Figures, Day of the Dead, Veracruz, Mexico

After reviewing the above sites and others on MexicoConnect, ask the students to design a mock altar of their own using some of the images and ideas they have collected from the MexicoConnect web pages. For this activity you may want to divide the students into groups and have each group design decorations of flowers, skeletons, or skulls; compose a poem; find recipes for candy or pastry treats; or suggest other appropriate activities based on their study of the websites. When students have finished designing their altars and planning their celebrations, ask each group to discuss the significance of their offerings and decorations.

What significance do these decorations have for the dead and the living?
How is death perceived in this tradition?
What is the tradition celebrating?

Dia De Los Muertos and Halloween

Have the students either write a brief essay or make a chart comparing the two holidays. Ask them to begin by brain storming ways in which Halloween is celebrated in the U.S. Is Halloween a holiday connected with honoring the dead? Next compare what they have learned about the traditions associated with El Dia de los Muertos to the traditions associated with Halloween.

El Grito de Dolores vs. the Fourth of July

Do the same assignment for El Grito de Dolores and the Fourth of July: either a brief essay or a chart comparing the two holidays. Ask students to begin by listing all the Fourth of July activities they can think of. Then tell them to compare what they have learned about Mexican celebrations of Independence Day. Ask them to consider both the similarities and the differences they discover between the two holidays.

Exploring language is a valuable way to add to the understanding of cultural traditions. Several of the websites in this lesson introduce some colorful Spanish words and expressions associated with these holidays, especially El Dia de los Muertos . Ask students to make a list of all the Spanish words and their English definitions and equivalents they can find related to these holidays. You can help them get started by showing them the Day of the Dead Glossary on the AZCentral.com website, accessible from the Day of the Dead website on MexicoConnect. This is also an excellent way to engage students who are bilingual or who may be studying Spanish.

Selected EDSITEment Websites

Tradiciones mexicanas: las posadas
A Chronology of Events
Saint Juan Diego
Relation of the Apparitions
Picture Gallery
The Basilica of Guadalupe
Online Videos
Mexico's Days of the Dead
The Days of the Dead
Day of the Dead Glossary
Mexico: From Independence to Revolution

Related on EDSITEment

Hispanic and latino heritage and history in the united states, spanish language learning resources, the mexican revolution, the mexican revolution: november 20th, 1910, "sí, se puede": chávez, huerta, and the ufw, esperanza rising : learning not to be afraid to start over, esperanza renace: aprendiendo a no temer el comenzar de nuevo, origins of halloween and the day of the dead.

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A front view of Ciudad de Mexico, a traditional domed building in mexico city.

6 alternative and arty ways to discover Mexico City culture

Amid art deco architecture and Frida Kahlo’s creations, find Mexico City’s pre-Hispanic traditions and an Indigenous crafts scene.

Mexico’s sprawling capital is a gateway to the country’s Maya ruins, miles of beaches, rocky canyons and traditional Indigenous villages. But many travellers find the metropolis has an allure all of its own, and a handful of days can be well spent touring its neighbourhoods and historic centre. Mexico’s best museums are here, and its many galleries and markets help facilitate one of the strongest creative scenes in Latin America. Dig a little deeper to find the city’s pre-Hispanic roots, and discover how many customs are linked to the ancient Aztec and Maya civilisations.

1. Kayak the ancient canals of Xochimilco

Before the Spanish conquest in 1521, Mexico City, then called Tenochtitlán, was built on two small islands inside Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs built canals and floating farms called chinampas to feed its growing population. Today, all that remains of these ancient waterways are in Tláhuac and Xochimilco, a neighbourhood 15 miles south of Mexico City’s Centro Histórico. Flat-bottomed party boats called trajineras cruise Xochimilco’s canals daily, but a guided kayaking trip provides a more tranquil — and environmentally friendly — visit. Tours offer the chance to spot Xochimilco’s wildlife, including the critically endangered axolotl salamander and more than 200 bird species, while learning about the history and science behind chinampas, which still provide food for Mexico City residents.

2. Browse the Museo de Arte Popular

In the historic centre of Mexico City is the Museo de Arte Popular , a beautifully designed handicraft museum housed inside a 1920s art deco building. The museum, which once served as Mexico City’s fire department headquarters, celebrates traditional Mexican craft in all its forms, from textiles and pottery to children’s toys, furniture and giant alebrijes — mythical creatures made from wood or papier-mache. High-quality crafts from almost every Mexican state are displayed thematically over several floors, including ceramics from Jalisco, piñatas from Puebla and ceremonial masks from Chiapas. Particularly striking are the small but impressive Day of the Dead craft collection and the á rbol de la vida (tree of life) pieces – colourful, intricate clay sculptures depicting the creation of life.

Patrons in the Museo de Arte Popular looking at colourful art and artefacts in glass cases

3. Sip on pulque, the drink of the Aztec gods

Pulque is a drink made from the fermented sap of agave, the same plant used to make tequila and mezcal. It has been drunk for more than 2,000 years, making it Mexico’s oldest alcoholic beverage. During the Aztec empire, pulque was considered a sacred drink, reserved for gods, emperors and ceremonial events. The introduction of beer and distilled spirits by the Spanish in the 16th century marked the beginning of the end for pulque, with many of Mexico City’s pulquerias — taverns specialising in the drink — closing between the early 20th and 21st centuries. But a recent resurgence has seen several reopen across the city, making it one of the best places in Mexico to try the tipple. La Canica — a pulqueria in the Tabacalera neighbourhood run by a family that has been in the pulque business for five generations — takes a modern approach to the ancient drink, infusing freshly made pulque with dozens of seasonal flavours, from guava and mandarin to marzipan and toasted oats.

4. Try Mexico City’s ancient caviar

Ahuautle — which loosely translates to ‘seeds of joy’ in the ancient Nahuatl language and are also known as ‘water fly eggs’ — were sacred to the Aztecs. During the rainy season, a type of water fly called axayácatl would lay its eggs in Lake Texcoco. These were harvested for Aztec emperors and used as offerings to the gods. Montezuma, one of the last emperors of the Aztec empire, is said to have eaten them every morning to improve his strength. Hard to get hold of and up to four times more expensive a kilogram than beef, the eggs have been dubbed ahuautle , the ‘caviar’ of Mexico, by the capital’s chefs. Only a handful of restaurants in the capital still serve ahuautle, one of which is Ayluardo’s — in the Iztapalapa neighbourhood, in the east of Mexico City. It serves the water fly eggs — which taste intensely fishy, similar to dried shrimp — in pancakes with tomatillo (a bright green, acidic fruit native to Mexico) and serrano chilli sauce.

An artisan in Mexico City hammering a copper dish on a block of wood

5. Support indigenous crafts at Mercado de Artesanías de la Ciudadela

Just a few minutes’ walk from Museo de Arte Popular is this hub for artisans, Mexico City’s largest and best arts and crafts market. It is home to 350 stands selling a huge variety of crafts, or artesanias in Spanish, from all over Mexico, including handblown glass from Jalisco, silver jewellery from Guerrero and patterned chaquira beadwork from Jalisco, crafted by the indigenous Huichol people. For beautiful ceremonial Mayan masks made of wood and obsidian, head to stand 104, where you’ll often see the craftspeople at work. Also seek out the artisans selling amate — colourful works painted on to paper made from the pulp of fig and mulberry trees; the same type of paper was once used by the ancient Aztecs and Mayas to produce manuscripts.

6. Experience Mexican folk dance at El Ballet Folklórico de México

Founded in 1952 by choreographer and dancer Amalia Hernández, Ballet Folklórico celebrates Mexico’s diverse folklore traditions through dance, music and traditional dress. The performances take audiences from Mexico’s ancient past up to the revolution in 1910, travelling through the states of Oaxaca, Jalisco, Sonora, Zacatecas, Guerrero and more. Many of the dances take inspiration from Mexico’s Indigenous cultures, such as the Deer Dance (a contemporary piece that depicts a pre-hunting ritual practised by the Indigenous people of Sonora and Sinaloa) and the Guelaguetza, a folkloric ballet inspired by the ceremonial dances of the Mixtec and Zapotec people of Oaxaca. Performances are held at the Palacio de Bellas Artes — a white-marbled, art nouveau palace commissioned by President Porfirio Díaz in 1905 — on Wednesdays at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9.30am and 8.30pm.

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Mexican American Culture

This essay about Mexican American culture explores its vibrant essence, blending ancient Mesoamerican and Spanish colonial influences with modern American elements. It highlights the significance of culinary traditions, language, art, music, religion, and family dynamics in shaping the community’s identity. The text portrays these cultural expressions as both a connection to the past and a celebration of ongoing innovation, emphasizing the community’s resilience and contribution to American diversity.

How it works

In the kaleidoscope of American cultural diversity, few facets shimmer with the same brilliance as Mexican American culture. It’s a symphony of heritage, a fusion of ancient Mesoamerican roots and the colonial legacy of Spain, blended with the ever-evolving rhythms of modern American life. This unique fusion births a culture that dances between tradition and innovation, weaving a vibrant tapestry of customs, flavors, and values.

Central to the heartbeat of Mexican American culture is its rich culinary tradition. From the tantalizing aroma of sizzling fajitas to the comforting warmth of a bowl of homemade pozole, every dish tells a story of tradition and innovation.

Passed down through generations, recipes are treasured heirlooms, infused with the love and history of those who came before. And in the bustling kitchens of Mexican American households, cooking becomes not just a chore, but a celebration of family, community, and the bonds that tie them together.

Language, too, is a vital thread in the fabric of Mexican American identity. Spanish, with its lyrical cadences and expressive nuances, serves as a cultural bridge, connecting generations and preserving ancestral ties. But alongside Spanish, indigenous languages like Nahuatl and Mixtec whisper their ancient secrets, a reminder of the rich tapestry of cultures that have shaped Mexican American identity over centuries.

Yet, Mexican American culture is not confined to the kitchen or the spoken word; it permeates every aspect of life, from art and music to religion and family dynamics. In the vibrant hues of Chicano murals, artists paint a picture of resilience and resistance, reclaiming public spaces and asserting their cultural identity in the face of adversity. And in the rhythmic beats of conjunto music, the spirit of Mexico comes alive, bridging the gap between past and present, old world and new.

Religion, too, plays a central role in Mexican American culture, blending Catholic traditions with indigenous beliefs in a tapestry of faith and spirituality. From the solemn rituals of Semana Santa to the joyous celebrations of Dia de los Muertos, religious observances serve not only as expressions of devotion but also as opportunities for community bonding and cultural exchange.

At the heart of it all lies the cornerstone of Mexican American culture: family. Strong bonds of kinship and loyalty tie generations together, providing a sense of belonging and support in an ever-changing world. From the cherished memories of childhood summers spent with grandparents to the laughter and camaraderie of holiday gatherings, family serves as a source of strength and resilience, a reminder that no matter where life may lead, one’s roots remain firmly planted in the soil of home.

In conclusion, Mexican American culture is a tapestry woven from the threads of history, tradition, and resilience. It’s a celebration of diversity and identity, a testament to the enduring spirit of a people who have thrived in the face of adversity. As Mexican Americans continue to enrich the cultural landscape of America, their legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

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Mexican American Culture. (2024, Apr 22). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/mexican-american-culture/

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Feb 26, 2021

Hispanic Cultures: Everything You Need to Know About Mexican Culture

Updated: Aug 10, 2022

“I’m Mexican. No, I’m not spicy. Or fiesty. Or exotic. I’m just not bland. Because my culture is too rich. Because my hips give in to the beats of a drum. And my tongue rolls with a passion. Because I come from vibrant colors. And full skirts. And intricate patterns in my gene pool. Warrior and conqueror. Because I have to quiero y te amo. While you’ve gotta stick to I love you. Because I come from women with rifles and food that excites you. And the very hands that harvest this land, hold the very hearts that harvested me.” -J. Arceo Hispanic refers to a person whose cultural origin is based in Spanish-speaking countries such as Mexico, Spain, Cuba, Colombia, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, and so on . These places are associated with vivid colors, warm textures, interesting clothes, energetic dances, and music. Every year, between September 15 and October 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month takes place. It is a big celebration to honor their culture and history. There are many appealing aspects of Hispanic cultures. If you are interested, especially in Mexican culture, and willing to learn more about it, you’ve come to the right place! 1. Language In Mexico, there is no official language, but Spanish is the most widely spoken. Across the country, 68 national languages, out of which 63 are native, are recognized and spoken . In 31 countries, Spanish is the official language. Over 400 million people speak Spanish, which makes it the second most spoken language after Chinese. Even though Spanish is spoken by many people all over the world, how people use and speak Spanish varies by country and region. For instance, there is a difference between Spanish used in Spain and Spanish used in Mexico . The use of language may differ in vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. If one day you want to travel Mexico and explore the country with your own eyes, you may need to keep these differences in mind. According to experts, you can gain professional proficiency in Spanish within 24 weeks. Actually, for professional proficiency in any language, two years is not a long time. Indeed, we believe we can make learning Spanish easier for you! Here at ReDefiners World Languages, we offer many Spanish classes and programs for students of all ages who want to enrich their lives by learning a new language. We have a wide variety of class types to fit with your schedule. Along with Spanish, if you come across someone speaking Nahuatl in Mexico, do not be surprised. Here is why: Nahuatl is the most commonly used indigenous language, and approximately 1,376,026 people speak this language, mostly in Veracruz, Puebla, and Hidalgo. It is also possible to hear many other indigenous languages, different dialects, and variations of other languages.

2. Food Food is an important cultural element of Mexico. It carries both religious and philosophical meaning. Mexican cuisine consists of spicy foods, and it is known for the diversity of corn, chili peppers, and beans.

Cuisine in Mexico varies by region . In northern Mexico, people often consume goat meat and beef. In southern Mexico, people prefer poultry products. Also, in the coastal cities of Mexico, fish and sea products are commonly eaten.

Tomatoes, winter pears, pumpkins, rice, and garlic are among the most commonly used ingredients, along with corn, peppers, and beans. Many foreigners are already familiar with several Mexican foods made by these ingredients because they are everywhere. So, if you have not tried any Mexican food before, you can experience these foods in your hometown. I promise you will never regret trying it!

Burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, frijole (beans), guacamole, nachos, salsa, tacos, tamales, tortillas, and quesadillas are among the most famous foods of Mexico. If you can get a chance to try these delicious foods, maybe you want to have a soup with them, because Mexico cuisine offers a wide variety of soups, too! You can even eat cold soups in the summer and hot soups in the winter.

This is a picture of a stack of Cheesesteak Quesadilla. It has beef, cheese, and herbs inside, and each slice is wrapped by a toasted tortilla.

Sourced from:

https://natashaskitchen.com/philly-cheesesteak-quesadilla-recipe

3. Religion

There is no official religion in Mexico. In the middle of the 19th century, freedom of religion was allowed, and Mexico became a secular country. Its population is estimated to consist of Catholics (80.8%), Protestants (6%), Evangelists (1.3%), Jehovah’s Witnesses (1.2%), Pentecostals (0.8%), people unaffiliated with any belief (10.6%), and people from other beliefs (5%) . It has the world’s second-largest Catholic population, after Brazil.

For Mexicans, Catholicism is not only a religion but more like a cultural heritage . Religious practices are not limited to churches; they are seen in everyday life. Even non-religious Mexicans try to attend Catholic celebrations because Catholicism is settled in the country and seen as a way of life. Yet still, Mexican society is rather respectful to other beliefs.

As an example, whenever Mexicans pass by church or altar, many of them make the “Sign of the Cross” with their hands. Likewise, Catholic sacraments, such as baptism or marriage, mark many of their lives. Religion even influences their language. As in other languages, there are phrases such as Si Dios quiere (God willing) and Dios te bendiga (God bless you).

Painting is an inseparable component of the Mexican culture. One can feel the importance of art for the Mexican society as soon as they step into the country. All of the art forms are protected, and Mexicans always praise their artists. Important names such as Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and José Clemente Orozco are sources of pride for them since they are famous worldwide for their art.

The art history of Mexico is also an important topic to mention. Along with the architecture and sculpture, ancient people painted on ceramics and codices (old books consisting of writings with pictures) . They used colors as symbols in those times, such as red for blood or yellow for corn. That’s pretty interesting, isn’t it? Sometimes we can relate the color red with blood, but yellow for corn? I guess corns were so commonly consumed that even in ancient times people included them in their paintings.

Paintings that are painted directly on the wall are called murals. There are two important places in which murals were discovered and preserved very well: Bonampak and Cacatlax archaeological sites. Street art is still substantial in Mexico, and this is what keeps the country sparkling and alive!

This is a picture of a mural found at Bonampak. There are pictures of ancient peoples against faded, earth-tone background colors, such as brown, red, orange, and turquoise.

Sourced from: https://www.flickr.com/photos/pov_steve/7103817161/in/pool-maya/

5.Traditional Music, Clothes, and Dance Some music may carry a special meaning for us, and we can enjoy listening to them, but for Mexicans, music is even more special! It is a big part of their identity. Mariachi music is the best known traditional genre of Mexico. Indeed, many people claim that this genre is the best representative music of Mexican culture. This music is played at weddings, on women's birthdays, girls' 15th birthday parties (known as quiñceaneras), and on Mother's Day. However, it is possible to encounter this genre at any celebration. Here is a video of Mariachi music:

Traditional clothes and costumes have an important place in Mexican history. Even though these are not used in everyday life, many native people wear them on special days. For instance, when performing mariachi, men wear Charro Suit s and Sombrero s . There are many other traditional clothing items, such as the huipil (a blouse for women), the rebozo (a scarf-like shawl), the sarape (a Poncho), and so on. All of these traditional clothes and costumes represent their Spanish and Mayan roots.

Likewise, traditional dances are indispensable cultural elements of Mexico. There are different types of traditional dancings in distinct regions. For example, in Jalisco, known as the birthplace of mariachi, these dances are based on courtship behaviors. However, in Veracruz, the oldest city located on the east of the Gulf of Mexico, these dances carry more flamenco characteristics. The most famous traditional dance in Mexico is Jarabe Tapatio , also known as the Mexican Hat Dance. Seen as a national dance of Mexico, Jarabe Tapatio still maintains its importance. Many Mexican people learn how to dance in their childhood and continue to dance in festivals, celebrations, and birthday parties. Here is a video of Jarabe Tapatio:

6. National Holidays and Festivals Music, parades, costumes, dances, street foods, and joy come together to make the most flamboyant festivals and national holidays in Mexico! Such celebrations are important in Mexican culture, and even the smallest villages celebrate them.

One of the most important days for Mexicans is Mexican Independence Day, which celebrates the country's independence from Spain in 1810. The history behind the Mexican Independence Day is based on the day when a priest named Delores rang the bell of church and made a speech, a battle cry of the Mexican War of Independence from Spain, on September 16, 1810, which is also known as Cry of Delores (Grito de Delores). The official day of celebration is September 16. However, many people start celebrating on September 15. On the day of celebration, Mexicans enjoy colorful parades, mariachi concerts, traditional foods, and dances; red, white, and green decorations also fill the streets. Even though the concepts of national pride and freedom are abstract, anyone can feel them with their senses on this special day.

Another holiday as famous as Mexican Independence Day is the Day of the Dead (Día De Los Muertos). It is an annual celebration of both life and death on November 1 and 2. Families create offerings (or ofrendas ) for the deceased family members. These offerings are believed to encourage departed souls to join in the celebrations. On the day of celebration, many Mexicans put on funky make-up, wear crawly costumes, dance, hold parades, and sing. Day of the Dead originated within the practices of Aztec, Toltec, and other Nahua people who believe mourning the dead was disrespectful. In 2008, this unique celebration was recognized by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and added to the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.

This is a picture of a man and a woman wearing costumes for a Day of the Dead celebration. Each of them is wearing an oversized fake skull over their heads. The man is wearing a black suit and top hat, and the woman is wearing a white dress and a wreath of flowers on her head. She's also carrying a bouquet of flowers in her hands.

BONUS – Interesting Facts

With over 129 million people, Mexico is the 10th most populous country in the world! It falls behind Russia and precedes Japan by population.

Mexico is the 13th largest country by size and the second-largest Spanish-speaking country after Argentina.

Contrary to what is commonly known, Mexico’s official name is United Mexican States (Estados Unidades Mexicanos).

Jaguars, the largest wildcats in North America, can be found in the southern jungles of Mexico.

Chihuahuas, the smallest known dog breed, first originated in the state of Chihuahua. The dogs were named after the state.

To praise and appease the sun god, Aztecs sacrificed nearly 1% of their population every year.

Mexico ranks fourth in biodiversity. It is home to over 200,000 different species of fauna and flora.

There is a massive dependence on tourism in Mexico. It is the 7th most visited country, and it has the 15th highest income from tourism in the world.

Caesar Salads were invented in Mexico. The country also introduced many popular foods, such as avocados, tomatoes, and vanilla.

Mexico is home to the world’s smallest volcano, called Cuexcomat , and the largest pyramid, known as the Great Pyramid of Cholula ( Tlachihualtepetl , meaning made-by-hand mountain).

Now that you know basic facts about Mexican culture, do you find yourself wanting to learn more? Join our Spanish classes and programs ! By joining, you not only learn a new language, but you also get exposed to a new culture. For more information, please visit the ReDefiners website or email us at [email protected] .

These lines are for my dear grandfather Ilyas Kilicarslan who passed away due to COVID-19 last month. Even if you are not here anymore, you are always in my mind and forever in my heart. I am so proud of being your granddaughter, and I am trying so hard to be worthy of you. I hope you are at peace where you are.

"May the winds of heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear how much we love and miss you."

Culture & Travel

Mexican and Spanish Culture: Exploring the Differences and Similarities

Mexican and Spanish cultures have similarities due to historical connections, language, and certain traditions. However, they also possess distinct characteristics influenced by indigenous cultures. While Spanish culture is European, Mexican culture is a blend of indigenous, African, and European influences, making them distinct but interconnected.

What are the main differences between Mexican and Spanish culture?

How does mexican cuisine differ from spanish cuisine, is the language spoken in mexico the same as in spain, what cultural traditions are unique to mexico and spain, are there any similarities between mexican and spanish music and dance, do mexican and spanish art differ in style and themes, what role does religion play in mexican and spanish culture, are there any regional variations within mexican and spanish cultures, what roles do family and community play in mexican and spanish societies, what are the historical and colonial influences on mexican and spanish culture.

There are several key differences between Mexican and Spanish cultures. Here are a few:

1. Language: While both countries primarily speak Spanish, there are differences in vocabulary, accent, and colloquial expressions.

2. Cuisine: Mexican cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, incorporating ingredients like chili peppers, corn, and beans. Spanish cuisine, on the other hand, is diverse and varies by region, often focusing on ingredients like seafood, olive oil, and saffron.

3. Traditions and Celebrations: Mexico has a rich tradition of celebrating events such as Day of the Dead, Cinco de Mayo, and Independence Day, which are unique to its culture. Spain has its own set of celebrations, such as La Tomatina (the tomato festival) and Semana Santa (Holy Week).

4. History and Architecture: Spain has a long history with influences from various cultures, such as the Moors and Romans, resulting in diverse architectural styles like Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish. Mexican history and architecture have been shaped by indigenous civilizations like the Aztecs and Maya, with structures like pyramids and colonial buildings serving as prominent examples.

5. Cultural Customs: Mexican culture is known for its warm and friendly nature, emphasis on family, and strong community bonds. Spanish culture tends to exhibit more formalities and traditions, with a greater focus on punctuality and manners.

It’s important to note that both Mexican and Spanish cultures are incredibly diverse within their own countries and have regional variations. These differences only provide a general overview.

Mexican cuisine differs from Spanish cuisine in several ways.

One major difference is the use of ingredients. Mexican cuisine heavily relies on native crops such as corn , beans, tomatoes, chili peppers, and avocados. These ingredients form the base of many Mexican dishes, including tortillas, tamales, and salsa. On the other hand, Spanish cuisine incorporates ingredients like olive oil, garlic, fresh seafood, cured meats, and saffron, which give their meals a distinct Mediterranean flavor.

Another difference is the spiciness level. Mexican cuisine tends to be spicier than Spanish cuisine, with the frequent use of chili peppers and various spices. Spanish cuisine, while it still incorporates some spices, offers a milder flavor profile overall.

Preparation methods also vary between the two cuisines. Mexican cuisine often involves grilling, stewing, frying, or roasting ingredients to bring out their flavors. Spanish cuisine, on the other hand, commonly utilizes techniques such as braising, sautéing, and boiling.

The influence of other cultures is another factor in the divergence of these cuisines. Mexican cuisine has been shaped by indigenous, Mayan, and Aztec traditions, as well as the influence of Spanish colonizers. Spanish cuisine has been influenced by the Moors, Romans, and other Mediterranean cultures.

Finally, the variety of dishes differs significantly. Mexican cuisine boasts a wide array of tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, mole, and guacamole, while Spanish cuisine is famous for dishes like paella, tapas, gazpacho, and tortilla española.

Overall, Mexican cuisine and Spanish cuisine are distinct in terms of ingredients, flavors, preparation methods, cultural influences, and the variety of dishes they offer.

No, the language spoken in Mexico is not the same as in Spain. While both countries primarily speak Spanish, there are notable differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, and regional slang. These variations are often referred to as Mexican Spanish and European Spanish.

Some cultural traditions unique to Mexico include Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), which is a vibrant celebration honoring deceased loved ones; Piñatas, which are decorated containers filled with candies and toys that children break open during festive occasions; Mariachi music, a traditional musical style characterized by its lively rhythms and the use of stringed instruments; and Lucha Libre, a form of professional wrestling with colorful masks and high-flying acrobatics.

In Spain, some unique cultural traditions include La Tomatina, a festival held in Buñol where thousands of people engage in a massive tomato fight; Flamenco, a traditional musical and dance style known for its passionate and expressive movements; Running of the Bulls (San Fermín festival) in Pamplona, where brave participants run alongside bulls through the streets; and Semana Santa (Holy Week), a religious celebration with processions and elaborate floats depicting biblical scenes in cities across Spain.

Yes, there are several similarities between Mexican and Spanish music and dance. Both Mexican and Spanish music often incorporate similar instruments such as guitars, percussion instruments, and sometimes, the accordion. Additionally, both Mexican and Spanish music commonly employ similar rhythmic patterns and melodies influenced by flamenco and traditional folk music. Similarly, Mexican and Spanish dance forms, such as the flamenco and the jarabe tapatio in Mexican folklore, share similarities in their energetic footwork, rhythmic patterns, and use of hand gestures and body movements. Overall, while there are distinct regional variations, the influence of Spanish colonizers on Mexican culture has led to several shared characteristics in music and dance.

Yes, Mexican and Spanish art differ in style and themes. While both art forms have been influenced by each other at some points in history, they have distinct characteristics.

In terms of style, Spanish art is often characterized by its Renaissance and Baroque influences, with a focus on religious and mythological themes. Spanish art, particularly during the Renaissance period, is known for its emphasis on symmetry, balance, and naturalism. Artists such as El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya are prominent figures in Spanish art history.

On the other hand, Mexican art displays a strong influence from its indigenous cultures, particularly pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans. Indigenous motifs and symbols are often incorporated into Mexican art, creating a unique blend of indigenous and European influences. Mexican art is also known for its vibrant use of colors and lively compositions. Artists like Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Rufino Tamayo have made significant contributions to Mexican art.

Moreover, the themes in Mexican and Spanish art also differ. Spanish art often focuses on religious and historical subjects, reflecting the dominant influence of the Catholic Church and the Spanish monarchy. In contrast, Mexican art often reflects social and political concerns, depicting struggles of the working class, indigenous rights, and Mexican identity.

Overall, while both Mexican and Spanish art are rich and diverse, they showcase distinctive styles and themes that are influenced by their respective histories, cultures, and artistic traditions.

Religion plays a significant role in both Mexican and Spanish cultures. In Mexico, the majority of the population identifies as Catholic, making it the predominant religion. Religious festivals and traditions, such as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and Semana Santa (Holy Week), are deeply ingrained in Mexican culture and celebrated with great fervor. Mexican Catholicism often incorporates elements of indigenous beliefs and practices, creating a unique blend of religious and cultural traditions.

In Spain, Catholicism has been the dominant religion for centuries, deeply influencing the country’s culture and traditions. Spain has a rich history of religious art, architecture, and pilgrimage sites, including the famous Santiago de Compostela. Religious celebrations like Semana Santa and Corpus Christi are marked by elaborate processions and religious rituals. Despite declining religiosity in recent years, Catholicism remains an important aspect of Spanish identity and cultural heritage.

Overall, religion serves as a foundation for moral values, family values, and community ties in both Mexican and Spanish cultures. It shapes social interactions, influences personal beliefs, and contributes to the overall cultural tapestry of these countries.

Yes, there are several regional variations within Mexican and Spanish cultures. Both Mexico and Spain are large countries with diverse populations and history, resulting in regional differences in language, traditions, cuisine, music, and art.

In Mexico, there are several distinct regional cultures, such as the Yucatan Peninsula with its Mayan influence, the coastal regions known for their seafood dishes, and the northern states known for their cowboy culture. Each region has its own unique traditions and festivals, such as the Day of the Dead celebrations in Oaxaca or the lively Mariachi music in Jalisco.

Similarly, in Spain, there are notable regional variations. The Basque Country in the north has a distinct language and culture, while Catalonia in the northeast has its own language (Catalan) and traditions. Andalusia in the south is known for flamenco music and dance, while Galicia in the northwest has Celtic influences. Each region has its own culinary specialties as well, such as paella in Valencia, tapas in Madrid, or pintxos in San Sebastian.

These regional variations add richness and diversity to the overall Mexican and Spanish cultures, showcasing the unique characteristics and traditions of each region.

Family and community play crucial roles in both Mexican and Spanish societies. In Mexican culture, the concept of family is highly valued and closely-knit. Family relationships are characterized by strong bonds, loyalty, and support. The immediate and extended family members often live in close proximity and frequently gather for important occasions and celebrations. Family members are primarily responsible for providing emotional and financial support, and younger generations typically show great respect for their elders.

Similarly, in Spanish society, the family is highly esteemed, and the institution of marriage and the importance of children are emphasized. Traditionally, maintaining close relationships within the family unit has been highly regarded, and respect for elders is deeply rooted. Spanish families tend to display a sense of collectivism, where decision-making and problem-solving often involve several generations.

Community also holds great significance in both Mexican and Spanish societies. In Mexico, communities are often tight-knit and characterized by mutual support . There is a strong sense of belonging and solidarity, with neighbors and extended family members coming together to celebrate fiestas, holidays, and religious events. Communities play an essential role in providing social support, promoting traditional cultural values, and preserving local customs and traditions.

Similarly, in Spanish society, communities are highly valued as they contribute to the social fabric and collective identity. Local communities often organize festivals, processions, and events that bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and pride. Additionally, communities provide a support network for individuals and families, offering assistance during times of need and promoting social cohesion.

Overall, family and community are deeply ingrained in the fabric of Mexican and Spanish societies, playing pivotal roles in shaping cultural values, ensuring social stability, and fostering a strong sense of collective identity.

The historical and colonial influences on Mexican and Spanish culture are significant and have shaped the identities of both nations.

In Mexico, the indigenous civilizations, such as the Aztecs and Mayans, had a rich and advanced culture with elements of agriculture, architecture, and art. However, with the arrival of Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés in the 16th century, the course of Mexican history was drastically altered. The Spanish colonization brought about the fusion of indigenous and European cultures, known as mestizaje, which is a fundamental aspect of Mexican identity. The Spanish imposed their language, religion (Catholicism), and governance systems, which are still prevalent in modern Mexican society. The colonial period also led to the introduction of new agricultural practices, food, and livestock, which significantly influenced Mexican cuisine.

Similarly, in Spain, the Roman Empire had a lasting impact on the cultural development of the Iberian Peninsula. The Romans introduced Latin as the dominant language, which eventually evolved into Spanish (Castilian). The Visigoths and Moors also left their mark on Spanish culture. The Visigothic period contributed to the formation of a centralized monarchy and the establishment of the Catholic Church as a dominant institution. The Moorish occupation of Spain from the 8th to the 15th century brought Islamic influences, including architecture, mathematics, and agriculture. The Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula, resulted in Spain becoming a Catholic stronghold, leading to a deeply entrenched Catholic tradition within Spanish culture.

Furthermore, the exploration and colonization of the Americas by Spain had a profound impact on both Mexican and Spanish cultures. The vast wealth acquired from the colonies fueled Spain’s Golden Age, contributing to advancements in literature, arts, and science. In Mexico, this period resulted in the integration of indigenous cultures with Spanish influences, leading to the emergence of a uniquely Mexican identity. The Spanish also brought African slaves to Mexico, contributing to the rich diversity of Mexican culture .

Overall, the historical and colonial influences on Mexican and Spanish cultures are complex and multifaceted, involving the merging of indigenous, European, and African traditions, languages, religions, and governance systems. These influences have shaped the vibrant and diverse cultures we see in both countries today.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Jun 06 2018.

War, hunger, and some of the world’s great doomed social experiments all changed the way that Moscow eats.

Moscow, the European metropolis on Asia’s western flank, has always been a canvas for competing cultures. Its cuisine is no different. The ancient baselines of winter grains, root vegetables, and cabbage acquired scaffolding from both directions: eastern horsemen brought meat on sticks, western craftsmen brought pastries, and courtly French chefs came and drowned it all in cream.

History has a place on the plate here, as well: war, hunger, and some of the world’s great doomed social experiments from Serfdom to Communism to Bandit Capitalism all changed the way that Moscow eats. So in the spirit of all of those grand failures, we—a Russian chef and an American writer—will attempt here to reduce the towering history of this unknowable city to 13 dishes, with some Imperial past but a special emphasis on the more recent decades of culinary paroxysms as Moscow emerged from its Soviet slumber.

Olivier Salad

To visualize the long marriage between French and Russian cuisines, picture Peter the Great, on a diplomatic sojourn to Paris in 1717, a “ stranger to etiquette ”, meeting the 7-year-old boy-king Louis XV and lifting him in the air out of sheer elán. These things were simply not done, and yet, there they were. Peter’s joyful (and often envious) fascination with all things French took hold, among other places, in the kitchen. He brought French chefs back to his palaces, and then the lesser nobility followed suit, and when the first restaurants emerged in Moscow, they also spoke French. The Hermitage Restaurant, which was open from 1864 until history intervened in 1917, had a Francophone Belgian named Lucien Olivier as a chef, and he made a salad that was a perfectly unrestrained combination of French flavors and Russian ingredients: grouse! Veal tongue! Proto-mayonnaise! The ingredients now tend toward the pedestrian—boiled beef, dill pickles, various vegetables all bound with mayonnaise—and it has become a staple of Russian cuisine, especially on New Year’s. And yes, if you’ve ever seen the lonely Ensalada Rusa wilting behind the sneezeguard of a Spanish tapas bar, that is supposed to be a successor to the Olivier. But in Moscow, you should eat Matryoshka ’s version, which is not the original recipe but has some of that imperial richness: crayfish, quail, sturgeon caviar, and remoulade, all under a translucent aspic skirt, for 990₽ ($16).

There’s a type of expression around bottling things—bottled lightning, summer in a jar, etc.—that feels very apt here. What exactly is bottled with vareniye (jam)? A lot more than just fruit. These jams, which tend to be thinner than western varieties—with whole berries or fruit chunks in syrup—are bottled with a lot of Russian identity. There’s the Russian love of countryside. Deep dacha culture of summer cottages and personal orchards. Traditional naturopathy (raspberry vareniye taken with tea will fight fever). And above all, friendship is bottled here— vareniye made from the overabundance of fruit at one’s dacha is the most typical Russian gift, real sharing from real nature, even in the often-cynical heart of Europe’s largest megacity. Visitors who are short on lifelong friendships in Moscow can pick some up fine vareniye at any Lavka Lavka shop (we recommend the delicate young pine cone jam) or, curiously enough, at many Armenian stores.

Borodinsky Bread

The clinical-sounding title of Lev Auerman’s 1935 classic Tekhnologiya Khlebopecheniya ( Bread Baking Technology) doesn’t promise scintillation. But Auerman’s recipe for rye bread changed Russian bread forever. An older legend had it that the bread was baked dark for mourning by a woman widowed in the battle of Borodino in 1812, but the real birth of the bread came from Auerman’s recipes. A modification on sweet, malted Baltic breads, Auerman’s Borodinsky bread was 100% rye and used caraway or anise. The recipe has evolved a bit—today it is 80% rye and 20% wheat high extraction flour and leans more on coriander than caraway. But its flavor profile (sweet, chewy) as well as its characteristic L7 mold —a deep brick of bread—has made it easily identifiable as the traditional, ubiquitous, every-occasion bread of Moscow. You can buy it everywhere, but the Azbuka Vkusa high-end markets have a reliably good sliced version.

Buckwheat Grechka

Look closely at those Russians who have followed their money to live in London, or are vacationing in Cyprus or Antalya. See the slight melancholy that not even cappuccinos or sunshine can erase. It’s not because Russians are gloomy by nature; it’s probably because there is no real grechka outside of Russia and Ukraine, and that is devastating. Buckwheat grain and groats— grechka (or grecha in Saint Petersburg)—are deep in the culture. It’s a wartime memory: May 9 Victory Day celebrations feature military kitchens serving buckwheat like they did at the front. It’s a little slice of Russian history that lies somewhere between oatmeal and couscous. In Moscow, eat it at Dr. Zhivago with milk (180₽/US$2.90) or mushrooms (590₽/US$9.50), and rejoice.

Mimoza Salad

This fantastically expressive egg-and-canned-fish salad is a testament to Soviet ingenuity—it’s the ultimate puzzle to make a drastically limited food chain sparkle—and the universal human thrill of layering foods. The geological creation starts with a base layer of fish, then layers of grated cooked potato, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, grated carrots, sweet onion, diced egg whites and then capped with a brilliant yellow crumble of boiled egg yolk. It sits there on the plate, dazzling like the flowering mimosa tree it is named after. The taste? Well, it’s comfort food. Pick some up to go at any Karavaev Brothers location —the excellent deli chain sells it for 650₽ (US$10.40) a kilo.

It seems odd, almost impossible, to imagine a time in Russia before shashlik. It’s meat on a stick, something that all humans should have had on the menu since at least the time of Prometheus. But shashlik as we know it know—cubes of marinated meat cooked with vegetables over a mangal grill—didn’t really take off in Russia until the early 1900s. And due to a lack of suitable meat in much of the Soviet era (there were no meat cattle herds, only dairy), we’re starting the clock on shashlik in the late Soviet period. Despite its relatively recent (re)appearance, it is now the ubiquitous grill phenomenon of Russia, a welcome ritual of summer.

Much of Russian cuisine has borrowed heavily from Central Asia and further east over the millennia ( pelmeni anyone?), but plov is a striking example of an entire eastern dish making its way directly into Russian households. With the collapse of the Soviet Union and upheaval in many Central Asian Soviet Republics, mass economic migration to Moscow took off in the late 80s and early 90s. Central Asians today are the lifeblood of the Moscow labor force (part of up to 10-12 million Central Asian migrants living in Russia), and plov—rice steamed in stock with meat and vegetables—has jumped from the migrant communities to the homes of Muscovites everywhere. It has developed an unfortunate reputation for being a food that even finicky kids will eat, so there is a lot of harried domestic plov being made. But you can get a fully expressed Uzbek version at Danilovsky Market, online at plov.com , or at Food City—the surf-and-turf Tsukiji of Moscow.

The Big Mac

So many of the difficulties in American-Russian relations come down to one foundational attitude problem: The Americans (that’s half of this writing duo) were incredibly, distressingly smug through the entire fall of the Soviet Union. We mistook Soviet failure for an American victory, and that made all the difference. What does that have to do with a Big Mac? Well, when Russia’s first McDonald’s opened on Pushkinskaya in 1990 and 5000 people turned out to wait in line for the first taste of America, we back home in the states mistook it for culinary and commercial superiority. But there was something more complicated happening: Russians had been denied Western goods for so long and with such force that any outside identity was much-needed oxygen. And the long-term victory, as McDonald’s has continued to thrive in post-Soviet Russia, really belongs to the local franchise, which used higher-quality ingredients than in the U.S. and created a chain that was successful not because of its American identity but because of its Russian modifications. We wouldn’t recommend eating at any McDonald’s, especially not when there is Teremok for your fast-food needs, but having a soda in the original location is one way to sit and ponder the sin of hubris. And to use the free toilet and Wi-Fi.

The crown jewel of Levantine meat preparations, perhaps the single greatest street meat in the world: Shawarma. It first came to Moscow with a shawarma joint across from the Passazh mall, opened in the early 90s by Syrian cooks who dazzled masses with their sizzling, spinning, spiced meat emporium. Lines that stretched into the hundreds of people weren’t uncommon in those heady early days. And even though the original spot closed many years ago, Moscow shawarma only grew from there, mutating into the beast it is today, where you’re likely to find chicken, cabbage, mayo and a thin tomato sauce all combining to make the Levant a distant memory.

Fish Tartare aka Sashimi

One result of the aforementioned American smugness is that the West seemed surprised at how rapidly 1990s Russia assimilated some of the most hardcore capitalist traits, including but not limited to conspicuous consumerism. Moscow’s new elite was very, very good at that. What could be more conspicuous that recreating a restrained, exclusive seafood cuisine from Japan in the chaotic, landlocked megacity of Moscow? The very improbability of high-end sushi and sashimi in Moscow fueled much of its allure, and even though the trends have moved on from sushi, you can still tell the emotional attachment that the oligarch class has to those formative wastes of money. Sumosan restaurant started in Moscow back in 1997 and has since expanded to Monte Carlo and Londongrad , where they serve a dish that they call Fish Tartare, among others, in their restaurants and through their private jet catering service.

Blue Cheese roll

If the early elite sushi restaurants in Moscow were the frivolous edge of a food phenomenon, then Yakitoriya , a chain which started in the late 1990s, democratized it with affordable sushi rolls geared to local tastes. The Blue Cheese Roll, available now on their menu, seems like the apex (or nadir) of the Russianized roll: salmon, smoked eel, cucumber, cream cheese, Blue Cheese sauce. It might not be Jiro’s dream, but a true Russian middle class, one that can work honestly, earn meaningful salaries, and have a freaky sushi roll at the end of the week just like the rest of us—that’s something worthing dreaming for. Blue Cheese Roll, Yakitoriya, 417₽ (US$6.70)

If you’re American, have you ever wondered why tacos took over middle America but sopes remain virtually unknown? It’s curious how a country can assimilate some foods from their neighbors and but remain blissfully ignorant of others. That may explain what took place two years ago in Moscow, when the city seemingly discovered, as if for the first time, the bagged awesomeness that is khinkali , a soup dumpling from Russia’s southern neighbor Georgia. It became very trendy very quickly, and khinkali joints sprouted across Moscow like griby after a rain. But it wasn’t just that dish: what they were serving was a bit of the imagined southern, sybaritic lifestyle of the Caucasus, as promised in restaurant names like Est’ Khinkali Pit Vino ( Eat Khinkali Drink Wine ). Your best bets are at the stately Sakhli , around 100₽ (US$1.60) per soft, fulsome dumpling, or the more modernized Kafe Khinkalnaya on Neglinnaya Street , 100₽ (US$0.80) a dumpling.

We have named burrata—yes, that Italian alchemy of cheese and cream—the Perfect Dish of Moscow 2018, if only because it is the Dish of the Moment, ready to be enjoyed at the height of its faddishness now, and equally ready to be replaced when the city decides to move on. Read Anna Maslovskaya’s masterful breakdown of why—and where—to eat burrata in Moscow.

Top image: Olivier salad with chicken. Photo by: Kvector /Shutterstock

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The History of Moscow City

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The insider's cultural guide to Moscow: Concrete, coding and Soviet ghosts

From space-travelling babushkas to grainy electronic music, the Russian capital has come a long way since the legendary 1991 rock concert that drew an audience 13 times bigger than Glastonbury’s

Moscow culture in five words

Rainbow glow in oil spills.

Sound of the city

Crisscrossed by 10-lane avenues, Moscow is awash in fumes and traffic. Sirens, roadworks and engines blend into a 24-hour urban symphony. The noise penetrates even the most soundproof buildings. In truth, though, most Muscovites secretly enjoy being immersed in this non-stop street drama and would be terrified at the thought of moving to a noise-free countryside.

What’s the look on the street?

Although Moscow’s bohemian restaurants are still filled with the fur-addicted crowd, the younger generation’s style wouldn’t be out of place in Kreuzberg or Shoreditch – a mix of vintage trophies and minimalist Scandinavian brands, ideally with a few locally produced items such as quirky bracelets from Moroz . For the new rebellious aesthetic, look out for brands such as Gosha Rubchinskiy and Tigran Avetisyan.

Photographer Alena Chandler’s blog, Cycle Lady , documents the changing habits of the city’s fashion scene – and its transportation. As bikes slowly carve out a space on the roads, we’re seeing a new generation of smart-looking urban riders.

Everyone’s tuning into …

The Echo of Moscow radio station is widely regarded as one of the last bastions of free speech in Russia, a country where political debates have gradually become an oddity. This station gives voice to opposition leaders and reports on events that are otherwise ignored or misinterpreted by other state-controlled media.

Echo of Moscow’s reputation is inseparable from its charismatic editor-in-chief, Alexey Venediktov, dubbed the walking news agency. His Twitter account remains the most reliable source of breaking news in the country, despite an ongoing scandal over his staffing choices.

Best current venue

Techno, bars and cocktails are old news in Moscow. Coding, however, is all the rage. A new temple for local digital warriors has opened in an atmospheric constructivist warehouse, which was once home to the first Soviet communication company. DI Telegraph is a concrete playground for the diverse creative crowd, with its jam-packed schedule of pop science lectures, build-your-own-app courses, gastronomic fairs, coffee tastings and secret parties.

Best local artist

Taus Makhacheva explores geopolitical issues through video installations, photography and performances. Splitting her time between Moscow and Makachkala, in the mountainous southern republic of Dagestan, she provides critical reflections on the identity and collective memory of modern Caucasus and Russia .

Last year Makhacheva baked a jumbo cake in the shape of the Russian Federation, complete with all of its regions and autonomous republics, for an exclusive private party in Moscow. Guests – including oligarchs and art lovers – quickly cut the country into pieces and ate it.

Who’s top of the playlist?

Gost Zvuk is a new vinyl label curated by the seasoned music aficionado Low Bob, who works exclusively with homegrown producers, often described as the new Russian musical avant garde. Driven by their DIY ethos, the label’s new stars such as Vtgnike , Ol and Lapti have pushed the boundaries of Moscow’s electronic scene.

What’s the big talking point?

Beyond the conflict in Ukraine and crumbling economy (both of which dominate the national news agenda), one story that shook Moscow recently was the planned statue of St Vladimir – medieval baptiser of ancient Rus – which the city’s authorities plan to erect atop the spectacular Sparrow Hills. These hills, which are currently home to a precious botanical garden and boast an incredible view of the capital, are set to be bulldozed to make way for the erection of this 82-foot statue: the first of a religious figure in the city.

The decision met with fierce criticism from dozens of thousands of people who signed an online petition against the monument. However, given the current political climate and the powerful standing of the Russian Orthodox Church, it’s unlikely these opposing voices will be taken into account.

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What Moscow does better than anyone else

Moscow is a truly 24-hour city. You can get a new haircut, take your friends out for an impromptu drink, go for a dip in a public pool or even find yourself stuck in a traffic jam at 3am.

Comedy gold

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Moment in history

In September 1991, three months before the fall of the Soviet Union, 1.6 million people gathered at a giant field in northern Moscow to sing along – or rather growl along – with some of the hottest rock acts of the time, including AC/DC, Pantera, Metallica, the Black Crowes and the cult Soviet band EST. Up until that moment, all of these bands were banned from performing in the USSR. It was one of the first and undoubtedly the largest rock gig in Russian history – there were enough people to fill Glastonbury festival 13 times over – and a sure sign that the country would never be the same again.

Best recent street art

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Igor Zinatulin is a culture journalist and part of the editorial team of the Calvert Journal , a guide to the new east.

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Essay, Pages 6 (1464 words) Views. 364. The Culture in Mexico is rich in tradition and the people have a heritage that dates back to the indigenous population. Although there are many areas in Mexico that deal with poverty, there are also wealthy areas of Mexico. Mexico has a profitable exportation of goods and trades with many other countries.
Mexican Culture Analysis: [Essay Example], 2699 words
Discrimination against Mexican Americans has resulted in the loss of land and pride. The Mexican-American war was waged from 1846 to 1848 after the United States conquest of Texas in 1845. The Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo was signed at the end of the two-year conflict, and Mexico lost Texas to the United States.
Moscow
Moscow - Arts, Culture, History: Moscow has dozens of theatres. One of the most renowned is the Bolshoi Theatre, which was founded in 1825, though its present splendid building facing Theatre (formerly Sverdlov) Square dates from 1856. Also on Theatre Square is the Maly (Little) Theatre for drama. Another prestigious theatre, the Moscow Academic Art Theatre, founded as the Moscow Academic ...
Mexican and Spanish Culture: Exploring the Differences and Similarities
Here are a few: 1. Language: While both countries primarily speak Spanish, there are differences in vocabulary, accent, and colloquial expressions. 2. Cuisine: Mexican cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, incorporating ingredients like chili peppers, corn, and beans.
13 dishes that explain the story of modern Moscow
The clinical-sounding title of Lev Auerman's 1935 classic Tekhnologiya Khlebopecheniya (Bread Baking Technology) doesn't promise scintillation. But Auerman's recipe for rye bread changed Russian bread forever. An older legend had it that the bread was baked dark for mourning by a woman widowed in the battle of Borodino in 1812, but the real birth of the bread came from Auerman's recipes.
The History of Moscow City: [Essay Example], 614 words
The History of Moscow City. Moscow is the capital and largest city of Russia as well as the. It is also the 4th largest city in the world, and is the first in size among all European cities. Moscow was founded in 1147 by Yuri Dolgoruki, a prince of the region. The town lay on important land and water trade routes, and it grew and prospered.
The insider's cultural guide to Moscow: Concrete, coding and Soviet
Igor Zinatulin is a culture journalist and part of the editorial team of the Calvert Journal, a guide to the new east. Five to follow. Moscow Facades. Deep Mix. Moscow Zoo. Central Park. Walk of Shame