“Olla de piedra” means stone pot. This is also the ancient name of San Antonio Tecómitl. San Antonio Tecómitl is one of twelve original towns in Milpa Alta Mexico City. Are you ready to explore its unique history and culture?
San Antonio Tecómitl sits on the slopes of the Teuhtli volcano. Its name means “olla de piedra” in Nahuatl. This translates to “stone pot” or “place where there are stones for cooking corn”. The most iconic spot here is indeed “La Olla de Piedra”. This natural hollow formed from volcano lava is where ancient rituals once took place.
Let’s journey back to the pre-Hispanic era. In 1240 nine Chichimeca tribes arrived from Amecameca. They settled here for decades. Then in 1409 seven tribes from Tenochtitlan came. Hueyitlahulanque led them to establish settlements. They subdued the Chichimeca tribes already living here.
Hueyitlahulanque strategically organized the tribes. This ensured control of the territory. In 1528 Hueyitlahuilli warned of impending danger. They sent peace emissaries to the conquistadors. This protected their territory.
The colonial era began on July 29 1529. The Spanish Crown’s representative arrived. He carried a document legalizing previous concessions. During the 1530s tribal leaders convinced their people not to flee. By 1532 families gathered in designated areas.
From the 17th century Santa Fe Tetelco hacienda influenced local life for over 300 years. Most residents worked as laborers. The hacienda spanned Milpa Alta and Tláhuac.
During the Revolution Emiliano Zapata’s forces had bases here. One was located in San Antonio Tecómitl. In 1921 land was allocated to Tecómitl residents. The resolution was executed in 1924. It assigned 175 hectares to 21 ejidatarios.
From 1929 Milpa Alta incorporated into Mexico City’s urban development. Between 1934 and 1965 services were installed. Potable water arrived in 1935. Construction of the Teuhtli Secondary School began in San Antonio Tecómitl. Electricity arrived in 1953. Roads connecting the 12 rural towns started construction in 1965.
On August 15 1532 places were blessed for establishing eight towns. San Antonio Tecómitl was one of them. The region became known as Milpas de Xochimilco. Milpa Alta remained under Xochimilco’s administration until 1787. Then it became part of the intendency of Mexico.
After Mexico’s independence Milpa Alta was part of the State of Mexico. This lasted until January 16 1854. That’s when the Federal District expanded. In 1864 Milpa Alta and San Pedro Actopan joined this territory. In 1899 they rejoined the Prefecture of Xochimilco. On March 26 1903 the Federal District divided into 13 municipalities. Milpa Alta was included.
From the 1970s the delegation changed from rural to rural-urban. This was seen in its main localities.
Today San Antonio Tecómitl preserves unique Franciscan architecture. The open chapel of the ex-convent of San Antonio de Papua is a highlight. Built by Franciscans in the 16th century it was declared a historical monument on July 19 1933. Each year on June 13 and 14 San Antonio celebrates its patron saint. The Passion of Christ representation and Snow Fair are popular. Here locals offer diverse ice cream flavors. In November the Day of the Dead is commemorated. Tomb decorating contests are held.
San Antonio Tecómitl is a town rich in history and traditions. Its unique blend of indigenous and colonial influences makes it a fascinating place to explore.