San Juan Ixtayopan

San Juan Ixtayopan is a community in Tláhuac that blends agricultural land with growing urban development spread across the foothills of Volcán Teuhtli and Cerro La Palma. The settlement combines traditional structures with modern conveniences like widespread electricity and water access throughout the town.

The settlement began around 1200 BCE as an agricultural village and later became a significant Xochimilca center before being absorbed into Mexico City. This long transformation from an early farming community to a modern neighborhood spans many centuries.

During Easter week, residents create decorative carpets made from colored sawdust on the streets at dawn, showing how deeply the community values its religious traditions. These handmade designs appear throughout the town and reflect practices that have been passed down for many years.

Visitors will find local markets and food shops offering fresh produce and regional specialties throughout the community. The area is walkable and provides good access to the surrounding hillsides for those interested in exploring the natural landscape.

The name Ixtayopan comes from the Nahuatl language and literally means 'place where whiteness abounds', referring to the area's mineral-rich past. This linguistic heritage is visible evidence of the deeper indigenous roots that shape this place.