In the 14th century, the Aztecs settled in the Valley of Mexico and founded the powerful city of Tenochtitlán in modern-day Mexico City. They faced challenges due to the boggy landscape, so they created a system known as chinampas to adapt to their surroundings.
Research has shown that chinampa farms were incredibly productive, producing 13 times more crops than traditional farming methods. The system provided food for hundreds of thousands of people and was hailed as one of the most intensive agricultural systems ever devised.
Today, farmers like Paiz still utilize chinampas to produce a variety of crops such as broccoli, herbs, spinach, and more. The system remains an important tradition that continues to be successful.
Chinampas are not only efficient in water usage but also contribute to the local economy by producing a wide range of vegetables and herbs. The method has potential benefits for cities facing water scarcity issues, offering insights into sustainable agricultural practices that could be implemented globally.
These wetlands are home to a diverse range of biodiversity, including endangered species like the axolotl. In addition to their ecological benefits, chinampas also serve as tourist attractions, providing green spaces and picturesque waterways for visitors to enjoy.