“Place on the sand” is what the ancient Nahuatl name Xalpa means. San Pedro Xalpa stands before us. This is one of Azcapotzalco’s original settlements. The ancient Tepaneca people considered this area sacred. They were the main rivals of the Mexica people.
San Pedro Xalpa is an ancient neighborhood. It lies just south of the giant San Isidro Cemetery. What’s most unusual is that San Pedro has maintained its old graveyard. The church atrium has also been preserved. Over the centuries, both the neighborhood and the old church building have been encroached upon in many ways.
Much of what we see of the San Pedro Xalpa church today dates from 1936. Some parts still date back to the 17th century. Look closely at the facade. Statues of Saint Peter and Saint Paul adorn it. Most of the tombstones date from the 18th century. These stones whisper tales of people long gone.
The neighborhood emerged from the Mexican Revolution. It received a significant land grant called an ejido. This allowed residents to farm land together. They had been subjects of colonial-era haciendas for a long time. Today, most of that land forms the giant neighborhood extensions south and west of the town.
San Pedro Xalpa is a crooked town center. It is one of Azcapotzalco’s oldest settlements. You can still see the remains of its long history here today. A stone chapel remembers one of Azcapotzalco’s ancient neighborhoods. The chapel is dedicated to San Andrés Apóstol. It also dates from the 17th century.
If you want to explore more, the Mercado Jardín 23 de Abril is nearby. It’s about a 20-minute walk west from Metro Camarones. Or it’s a 12-minute walk to the southwest.
Not far from here stands the Ex Hacienda de Xalpa. Once a thriving estate, the Ex Hacienda de Xalpa reflects the grandeur of Mexico’s colonial history. Although it is currently closed for public tours, its exterior remains accessible. Feel free to capture memorable photographs.
San Pedro Xalpa is more than just a place. It’s a living testament to Mexico’s rich past. Take a moment to appreciate the layers of history. They are woven into the very fabric of this ancient neighborhood.