A peek into the Reporter’s online archives quickly reveals the checkered history of recent efforts to resuscitate the Ixtépete archeological site, practically the Guadalajara metro-area’s only remaining notable pre-Hispanic ruins.
For this reason, denizens who care about the preservation of Mexico’s rich historic past will be hoping the latest undertaking to revive the neglected site fares better than past attempts.
An agreement signed last week between Zapopan city hall and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) will see 30 million pesos ($US1.6 million) plowed into the Ixtépete site to create Mexico’s first “parque agroecológico” (agro-ecological park). In addition to rehabilitating the Ixtépete ruins, the nine-hectare site will be converted into a peaceful sanctuary for families to enjoy flora and fauna, and a space for relaxation and reflection.
Zapopan Mayor Juan Jose Frangie admitted that although the site hosts solstice celebrations each year, it is liberally adorned with graffiti and garbage, and is frequently vandalized.
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