Memories of Tlaloc

Abstract

Mexico City currently faces several challenges deriving from historical social inequalities and ineffective governance, which hinder equitable access to water. The centralisation of water supply and drainage systems has largely failed to address local needs, leading to the marginalisation of vulnerable communities, especially populations dwelling in areas ecologically essential to the functioning of the Basin. This research argues for a renewed understanding of water’s ecological and cultural importance in the city based on water’s historical importance to Mexico and the modern misconceptions surrounding it. In this context, this work analyses the potential of a park landscape intervention in Mexico City’s cultural remains of Xochimilco, to explore new water management alternatives. Landscape architecture is presented as a critical strategy for fostering a renewed understanding and a medium-scale infrastructure based on circularity, while revealing layers in history. This thesis provides insights into how awareness, responsibility, and active engagement with water management can be promoted. It proposes that collective engagement can restore essential components of Mexico City’s hydrology, while mitigating some of the most crucial water issues, and inspire community-driven actions toward sustainable practices. Ultimately, the results put focus on the inclusion of local knowledge, strengthening the connection between people and water for an increasingly uncertain future.