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The name 'Mexico' is derived from the Aztec word 'Mexica'.
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The culture in Mexico is generally divided by geographical region, which identifies northern, southern, and central Mexico.
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The northern areas of Mexico were populated by small groups of indigenous tribes until the mid-1900s. It is considered the frontier culture.
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Central Mexico has always been the heart of the country, even in pre-Columbian times.
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Southern Mexico is the poorest region of the country. It also has a very strong indigenous culture and enjoys a tropical climate.
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Despite being a part of North America, Mexico is more culturally similar to South and Central America.
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Spanish is the main language in Mexico, but its pronunciation and sound is different than the Spanish language of Spain from where the Mexican language is rooted.
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Mexican food varies from region to region in some regards, but there are staples in Mexican cuisine such as corn, tomatoes, seafood, red and white meats, chiles, beans, avocadoes, tortillas, and coffee. The cuisine is a blend of indigenous food and European influences.
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The indigenous and Spanish traditions of Mexico led to a strong folk art culture.
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National holidays in Mexico include Independence Day (September 16), Día de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Las Posadas (December 16 to December 24), Noche Buena (December 24), Navidad (December 25), Año Nuevo (December 31 to January 1), Twelfth Night of Christmas (January 5), and the Day of the Dead (November 2).
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Mexican literature dates back to Mesoamerica. A well-known poet from pre-Spanish influence was Netzahualcoyotl. After the Spanish arrived the literature was influenced by the new concepts. Juan Ruiz de Alarcón and Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz were two well-known writers from the colonial time in Mexico.
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In the Americas, Mexico is home to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country.
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Mexican architecture was dominated by New Spanish Baroque in the colonial period. It has varied in influence since then from Moorish and Amerindian, to Neoclassicism, to French, and modern contemporary styles.
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Mexican music is rooted in indigenous influences. Instruments commonly used in traditional music include flutes, rattles, conches, trumpets, drums, and voice. Mariachi music is very popular with its instrument the Mexican vihuela - a five stringed instrument similar to a guitar.
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Mexican music includes traditional music such as Corridos, Mariachi, Banda, Norteno, and Ranchera.
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Mexico sports culture includes bullfighting, Charreria (equestrian events), and soccer (called football in some parts of the world).
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