Ever wondered about a place named after a snake’s home? Welcome to Coacalco. This city and municipality reside in the State of Mexico. It forms part of the Greater Mexico City conurbation.
Coacalco’s history is intertwined with the Valley of Mexico. It stands on the site of the ancient city-state of Xaltocan. The Toltec people inhabited this area from 850 to 1521.
Let’s explore Coacalco’s name. It originates from the Nahuatl language. Coatl means snake. Calli means home. The suffix -co signifies at. So Coacalco means at the house of the snake. The name was first documented in 1320.
Coacalco de Berriozábal got its full name for a reason. General Felipe de Berriozábal played a vital role. As Governor of the State of Mexico, he signed a decree. This decree, issued on February 12, 1862, declared Coacalco an independent municipality. This ended 343 years of dependence on Ecatepec.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Coacalco thrived on agriculture. Husbandry was common. Salt collection was another key activity.
Since the 1970s, Coacalco has transformed. It shifted from a rural, agricultural area to an urban, industrial hub. By the 2000s, commerce took center stage. Coacalco became a major commercial district. It serves the northern part of the metropolitan area.
Coacalco’s population tells a story of growth. Located near Mexico City, it has boomed. Since 1970, the population has increased significantly. In 2005, it had 252,555 residents. By 2020, that number soared to 293,444.
The municipality covers 35.5 square kilometers. The city sits at an elevation of 2,257 meters.
Coacalco cares about international relations. It has sister cities. Valle de Chalco in the State of Mexico became a sister city in 2012. Tangamandapio in Michoacán joined in 2019.
Several notable people hail from Coacalco. Aramís is a Mexican wrestler. Daga born in 1987 is also a Mexican wrestler. Erik Pimentel born in 1990 plays Mexican football. Francisco Sierra born in 1987 is a Mexican boxer.
The ecological reserve of Sierra de Guadalupe lies to the south. It adds a touch of nature to the municipal territory.
Coacalco’s motto reflects its spirit. Experiencia y resultados que se notan means Experience and results that are noticeable. It encapsulates the city’s progress and achievements.
So, as we conclude our visit to Coacalco de Berriozábal, remember its unique name. Think of the snake’s home. Consider its rich history and transformation. Coacalco stands as a testament to Mexico’s dynamic growth.