Walking In Xochimilco This Morning
The Oldest Neighborhood In Oaxaca
The neighborhood of Xochimilco is a couple of miles north of the Oaxaca Centro Zocalo. It is a the original neighborhood in the city of Oaxaca de Juarez.
Perhaps its most important feature is the astonishing, and massive, Aqueduct system. The image above shows a series of portals, through which the seasonal rains flow through.
This massive structure was built between 1727 and 1751, to bring water from San Felipe del Agua, two miles north, to the then growing capital city of Oaxaca. It remains as a tourist destination.
I still find it astonishing that it was entirely by hand, by human hands. Remember, there was no such thing as a crane in 1727.
Along with the spectacular Aqueduct, I am drawn to Xochimilco for the tiny views that still hold the DNA of human hands. It was human hands that twisted the wires above. I love these tiny details.
The neighborhood of Xochimilco is small, with an intimate and homey ambiance. The locals are friendly and welcoming. The cafes offer a lovely variety of the local tastes and delights.
