Atezca Lake, Natural lake in Molango de Escamilla, Mexico
Atezca Lake is a freshwater body in the mountains of Molango de Escamilla, situated in a forested setting at around 1,280 meters (4,200 feet) elevation. The water is surrounded by mixed woodland that covers several hectares.
The name Atezca comes from the Nahuatl language, combining atl (water) and tezcatl (mirror), reflecting its use by indigenous peoples. The area has long been an important location for communities in the Sierra Madre Oriental.
The lake features in local stories and folklore that have been shared within the community for generations. These narratives reflect how the place holds meaning for people who live nearby.
The lake is freely accessible to visitors and offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and hiking on surrounding nature trails. Early mornings are ideal when the water is calm and wildlife is most active.
The lake is home to the Nosferatu molango, a rare fish species found only in these waters among mountain forests. This species exists nowhere else in the world, making it a special place for nature lovers.
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