Few places in Mexico pack so much mythology into such a small space as Mexcaltitán. This island, located in the municipality of Santiago Ixcuintla, is considered by many historians to be the mythical Aztlán, that is, the point of origin of the Mexica people before their long pilgrimage toward the center of the country.
The “Mexican Venice”
During the rainy season (July to October), the streets of Mexcaltitán flood and residents get around exclusively by canoe. This peculiarity has earned it the nickname “Mexican Venice” and is one of its greatest draws for visitors.
Why is it said that Mexico was born here?
The Boturini Codex and other pre-Hispanic sources suggest that Aztlán —the place of the herons, from which the ancient Mexica set out— was an island with geographic features very similar to Mexcaltitán. The island’s circular shape, its radial layout and its location in a lakeside area have fueled this theory for decades.
What to see in Mexcaltitán
- Museum of Origin — a little gem with pre-Hispanic pieces and codex replicas.
- Central plaza — surrounded by the church of San Pedro and San Pablo and shaded arcades.
- Canoe ride — especially during the rainy season, when the streets turn into canals.
- Feast of San Pedro and San Pablo (June 29) — an aquatic procession with an image of the apostle carried across the lagoon by boat.
Gastronomy
Shrimp tamales, pescado zarandeado (chili-marinated grilled fish) and shrimp meatballs are the signature dishes. Everything is prepared with catch brought in just hours earlier from the surrounding estuaries.
How to get there
Take the Tepic–Mazatlán highway and, in Santiago Ixcuintla, turn off toward La Batanga, the pier from which boats depart for the island (15–20 min on the water).
When to visit
From June to September the landscape is most spectacular because of the canals. The rest of the year access is dry, but the weather is milder.
Mexcaltitán is a journey into mythical time. A visit here changes the way you understand Mexican identity.