Ever wondered where Mexico City’s elite sought recreation in the early 20th century? That place is Colonia Del Valle. Today we’re exploring this iconic neighborhood. It reflects Mexico City’s transformations.
Colonia Del Valle began as an aristocratic escape during the Porfiriato era. Imagine ranches cultivating alfalfa and fruit trees. These were divided in the early 1900s. They gave rise to Colonia Americana. Some streets still bear the names of those ranches and fruit trees. Others honor Mexican philanthropists.
Development was slow at first. A streetcar route connected Mexico City to Coyoacán. Expansion took off around 1920 when Avenida de los Insurgentes was paved. Large homes and mansions started appearing. Green spaces and monuments were also added. One example is Parque Hundido. It was built on a former sand mine.
By the 1960s, Colonia Del Valle was fully developed. It matched the purchasing power of its neighboring areas. Commercial growth included Liverpool Insurgentes. It opened in 1962. The country’s first shopping center, University Plaza, arrived in 1969.
However, the construction of Ejes Viales in 1978 changed Colonia Del Valle. These wide, one-way roads crisscrossed the city. Tree-lined boulevards became quasi-freeways. Many families sought quieter places to live. Mansions were replaced by apartments, offices, or schools.
Despite these changes, Colonia Del Valle retains its charm. Its architecture features Californian mission revival and Art Deco styles. Some Porfiriato examples still stand. The neighborhood boasts churches like the Temple of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Buildings from the colonization period also exist. These include the Temple of San Lorenzo Xochimanca.
The sense of community remains strong in Colonia Del Valle. Neighbors work together. They preserve the neighborhood’s identity. This is evident in community events and improvement projects. Today, Colonia Del Valle is still a desirable place to live. It blends history, architecture, and community.
Notably, Colonia Del Valle is practically synonymous with modern, central Mexico City. It includes seven sections plus Tlacoquemacatl Del Valle. This makes it one of the original settlements. This vast area was once lake bottom.
So, as you stroll through Colonia Del Valle, remember its evolution. From rural beginnings to an aristocratic enclave. It has adapted while retaining its unique charm. Its streets tell stories of ranches, streetcars, and architectural dreams.