Event
From Tenochtitlan to Ciudad de México: Colonial Urban Legacies and Environmental Consequences
- Date
- Thursday 28 November 2024
- Time
- Address
- Den Haag
- Room
- Wijnhaven 3.60
Ciudad de México, formerly Tenochtitlan, was built atop the ancient capital of the Aztec Empire. Initially located on two small islands in Lake Texcoco, the city was connected to the mainland via causeways and had a population ranging between 200,000 to 400,000 people. After the Spanish colonization, the city's morphology and urban design changed dramatically, leading to the development of a new city: Ciudad de México. By the 17th century, the lake was drained, and the city has continuously evolved until today. Currently, it is home to around 22 million inhabitants. However, due to its location on a former lakebed, the city has been sinking at an estimated rate of 9 cm per year since the 19th century.
This event will explore the historical legacies and urban and environmental implications of Tenochtitlan, or modern-day Ciudad de México, with a focus on its transformation. A key highlight will be the presentation of a 3D reconstruction of the ancient Aztec capital, developed by Dutch artist Thomas Kole. The event will also feature the participation of Mexican Ambassador Carmen Moreno.
Chair
Organizers
The event is chaired by the Institute of Public Administration, with the support of the Urban Studies Programme and Latin American Studies at Leiden University, and in collaboration with the Embassy of Mexico in the Netherlands.
Tentative Programme
- 14:45 – 15:00: Reception
- 15:00 – 15:10: Opening remarks by the Chair (Dr. Diego Salazar Morales)
- 15:10 – 15:25: Introductory speech by the Cultura Attaché and Head of the International Cooperation Section (Fabiola Jimenez )
- 15:25 – 16:00: Presentation of the 3D reconstruction of Tenochtitlan (Thomas Kole)
- 16:00 – 16:40: Panel discussion chaired by Dr. Diego Salazar Morales
- Dr. Antonella Maiello, Institute of Public Administration, Leiden University
- Dr. Randall Sheppard, Latin American Studies, Leiden University
- 16:40 – 17:00: Open discussion and Q&A
- 17:00 – 18:00: Drinks