Why Most People Get Mexico’s Capital Wrong Forever

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 22:58:38 +0000

# Why Most People Get Mexico’s Capital Wrong Forever: The Official Truth Behind Mexico City If you’ve ever browsed travel blogs, social media posts, or even tourist guides, you’ve likely come across a surprising but widespread misconception: “Mexico’s capital is Mexico City’s suburbs” or worse—“It’s in Guadalajara or Monterrey.” This misbelief has persisted for decades, but understanding why is crucial—both for geographic accuracy and respecting Mexico’s rich cultural identity. ## The Truth: Mexico City Is the Capital (Correctly Located) Mexico’s official capital is Ciudad de México (CDMX), a sprawling metropolis nestled high in the Valley of Mexico. Far from being just a suburb or a distant city, CDMX is the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation. Its location—at approximately 2,240 meters above sea level, surrounded by mountains and lakes—is steeped in historical significance, dating back to the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán.