Have you ever smelled the intoxicating perfume of thousands of flowers? Welcome to San Luis Tlaxialtemalco. This charming town is one of the fourteen original settlements of Xochimilco. Nestled amongst the canals and chinampas it boasts a rich history. It was once known as “the place of the censer of the ball game of the god Tlaloc”. This suggests a significant ritual role in ancient times. San Luis Tlaxialtemalco.
San Luis Tlaxialtemalco was formally founded in 1603. However a hermitage existed there for 25 years prior. This hermitage was part of the Franciscan monastery of San Bernardino. That monastery is now the Cathedral of Xochimilco. The town’s name is a blend of Spanish and Nahuatl. San Luis Obispo de Tolosa honors its patron saint. Tlaxialtemalco means “the place where braziers are made” in Nahuatl. This reveals a craft tradition central to the town’s identity. San Luis Tlaxialtemalco.
Today San Luis Tlaxialtemalco is perhaps best known for its flower market. It is located near the Acuexcomatl Center for Environmental Culture. This center is housed in a massive Porfirio Diaz-era pumping station. The market is a vibrant hub. Dealers arrive from all over Xochimilco often via canal. They bring flowers plants trees bushes and even local produce. It’s a key retail area in the lakes district. San Luis Tlaxialtemalco.
But there is more to San Luis Tlaxialtemalco than just flowers. The church is built partially from the black volcanic rock from nearby Teuhtli volcano. This adds a unique character to the architecture. Local life centers around the church and the town square. Of course the chinampas the famous floating gardens also play a vital role in daily life. The chinampas extend to all points north. San Luis Tlaxialtemalco.
One intriguing local legend involves a siren. It is said this siren lured children to the Acuexcomatl water source. The siren would drown the children as revenge for their crying. Their mothers would pray for them at the church angering the siren. It resulted in the church’s destruction. Locals claim you can hear the siren’s song in August. San Luis Tlaxialtemalco.
So as you walk through San Luis Tlaxialtemalco take a moment to appreciate its unique blend of history legend and natural beauty. This charming town offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of Xochimilco a true jewel of Mexico City. Remember the story of the siren. Remember the flowers. Remember San Luis Tlaxialtemalco.