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Xochimilco: An Introduction to the Floating Gardens of Mexico City with Julio Pastor

Xochimilco: An Introduction to the Floating Gardens of Mexico City with Julio Pastor


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Can't make this time? A video recording will be sent to all participants after the seminar.

The neighborhood of Xochimilco offers us the opportunity to understand the original ecosystem of the Valley of Mexico. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the unique region of Xochimilco is a popular day trip for Mexico City visitors and locals alike. This seminar offers a wonderful introduction to the ecology, geography, and history of this fascinating region.

In this seminar, we will talk about some of the native species of plants and animals that helped form an identity for the present-day megalopolis of Mexico City. We will discuss the way the Aztecs created a lake city with canals instead of roads that helped them improve their agriculture. We'll continue our trip through time to discuss the way in which the neighborhood came to symbolize Mexican folklore, and we'll discuss some of the most outstanding pieces of colonial and modern architecture that it has to offer.

Led by visual artist and Mexico City resident Julio Pastor, this seminar will explore the wonderful canals and architecture remnant of the Aztecs. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased understanding of the ecological diversity and intriguing history beyond Mexico City.

Born and raised in Mexico City, Julio Pastor is a proud pedestrian of his native city. He completed a BA in Fine Arts at UNAM. In 2008, he moved to the Netherlands where he completed his MFA, specializing in the Urban Landscape. After seven years, he returned to Mexico and turned the focus of his art production to the city that he roams every day. His art production is thoroughly inspired on what he encounters during his everyday walks, but also by a great deal of reading on topics related to architecture and urbanism. When not working at his art practice, Julio can be found teaching undergraduate drawing courses in the architecture department at the Universidad Iberoamericana, or enjoying the city with his wife and two children.

This conversation is suitable for all ages.

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.

Customer Reviews

Based on 3 reviews
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(3)
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M
Margaret Jones (New York, US)
Fascinating, Historical Facts

Julio gave a very interesting account of Xochimilco, from its Pre-Columbian origins to contemporary agricultural and recreational importance today.

S
Susan G (Wilmette, US)
A Wonderful Journey

I wasn't familiar with Xochimilco and Julio was an excellent guide!

T
Tina (Seattle, US)

Guest did not leave comment

Customer Reviews

Based on 3 reviews
100%
(3)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
M
Margaret Jones (New York, US)
Fascinating, Historical Facts

Julio gave a very interesting account of Xochimilco, from its Pre-Columbian origins to contemporary agricultural and recreational importance today.

S
Susan G (Wilmette, US)
A Wonderful Journey

I wasn't familiar with Xochimilco and Julio was an excellent guide!

T
Tina (Seattle, US)

Guest did not leave comment