Global Heritage, Local Voices: The Case of Xochimilco

Xochimilco, a world heritage city located in the southern part of Mexico City, is one of the most iconic cultural landscapes in the world. It entered the UNESCO World Heritage Cities on December 11th, 1987. Known for its extensive network of canals and the ancient agricultural system of chinampas (floating gardens), Xochimilco represents a unique interaction between human ingenuity and nature that has endured for centuries. Historically, the area was central to the Aztec economy, providing fertile land for crops and a vital waterway system for transportation. Today, it continues to be a space of cultural expression, hosting traditional festivals, music, and community practices that preserve its heritage. However, this legacy faces growing threats from urban sprawl, water contamination, unregulated tourism, and the decline of traditional farming. These challenges endanger not only the ecological balance of the canals but also the intangible cultural practices that give Xochimilco its global significance. Beyond its symbolic value, Xochimilco is also a hub of scientific importance: the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum), endemic to these waters, stands as both a national icon and a cornerstone of biomedical research. Renowned for its extraordinary ability to regenerate limbs, spinal cord, and cardiac tissue, the axolotl has become one of the most important experimental models in molecular biology and regenerative medicine worldwide. By documenting Xochimilco’s value and identifying sustainable practices, this study aims to highlight how biodiversity, ancestral knowledge, and modern science can converge. Xochimilco is not only a symbol of Mexico’s identity but also a global reminder of the urgent need to protect cultural landscapes and ecosystems with unparalleled scientific potential.