Capulalpam de Méndez facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Capulálpam de Méndez
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Municipality and town
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 Capulálpam de Méndez
Location in Mexico
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| Country |  Mexico |
| State | Oaxaca |
| Area | |
| • Total | 19.14 km2 (7.39 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 2,040 m (6,690 ft) |
| Population
(2005)
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| • Total | 1,313 |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central Standard Time) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (Central Daylight Time) |
Capulálpam de Méndez is a charming town and municipality in the Sierra Juárez mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is part of the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca region. The name "Capulálpam" comes from the Nahuatl language. It means "land of the chokecherry tree," named after a tree common in this area. In 2005, about 1,313 people lived here.
Contents
Exploring Capulálpam de Méndez
This municipality covers about 19.14 square kilometers. It is a rugged, mountainous area. The town itself sits high up in a mountain valley. It is about 2,040 meters (6,693 feet) above sea level. The weather here is usually cool and wet.
Plants and Animals of the Region
You can find many beautiful flowers in Capulálpam. These include gladiolus, geraniums, roses, and tulips. The area also has many types of trees. Some common ones are oak, ash, and pine. You might also see fruit trees like walnuts, pears, apples, and chokecherries.
The forests are home to many birds. You can spot eagles, hawks, owls, and doves. There are also smaller birds like sparrows and larks. Wild animals include foxes, coyotes, deer, and rabbits. You might even see a cougar or jaguar, though they are rare. Lizards, snakes, and scorpions also live in this area.
Life and Economy in Capulálpam
In 2005, there were 326 households in Capulálpam. Many people here speak an indigenous language. About 10% of the people work in making jewelry. Another 10% work at a stone plant. Most other people work in agriculture, which means farming.
The Historic Church
The town has a beautiful church dedicated to St. Matthew. It was built in the 16th century. Inside, you can see 15 large, detailed carvings. These religious scenes were made in the 16th and 17th centuries. They are very old and special.
A Magical Town for Visitors
In 2008, Capulálpam was named a "Pueblo Mágico" (Magical Town). This was the first town in Oaxaca to get this special title. It was Mexico's 33rd Magical Town. This title helps bring more visitors to the town.
The government also planned to build a traditional healing center. This center opened by 2010. It has traditional healers who use plants for medicine. They offer massages and herbal baths. They also have a special type of sweat lodge called a temazcal.
The 'temazcal' is a traditional ceremony. It uses fire, air, water, and earth for healing. People who participate might feel very relaxed. It can be like a deep meditation. The healing center also teaches about many different medicinal plants.
See also
In Spanish: Capulálpam de Méndez para niños
