Iztapalapa

Iztapalapa: Museo del Fuego Nuevo

Iztapalapa, also spelled Ixtapalapa, delegación (administrative subdivision), northeastern Federal District, central Mexico. It is situated at 7,480 feet (2,280 metres) above sea level in the Valley of Mexico. It was formerly a city built on the site of an important pre-Columbian town. Overlooking the area is Mount Estrella, where Aztecs kindled a sacred fire to initiate each cycle of their calendar round of 52 years.

Now an agricultural district of Mexico City, Iztapalapa produces corn (maize), alfalfa, wheat, beans, and vegetables. Industry is also becoming important. The district is easily accessible by highway, railroad, or air. Pop. (2005) 1,820,888.