Agricultural Terraces in Mexico

Abstract

The Mexican territory’s geographical characteristics allow the development of diverse agricultural systems, which have been practiced since ancient times. The terrace system is one of these, and it is found in various challenging landscapes, such as hills, cliffs, and ravines. This work aims to show the diversity of agricultural terraces in Mexico and present a general description of this system’s characteristics. Studies in this field identify several types of terraces: terraces with stone walls, metepantles, and lama-bordo. To understand the characteristics of these terraces, a documentary review of five Mexican regions was made: Tlaxcala, the basin of Mexico, the valley of Toluca, the Mixteca Alta, and the Mayan area. Traditional agricultural systems in Mexico are an important subject, studied by archeologists and anthropologists from the perspective of traditional agriculture, agroforestry systems, and traditional ecological knowledge. This paper’s introduction emphasizes the role of agricultural terraces for the development of civilization in Mesoamerica, specifically in central Mexico, the Mixteca Alta, and the Mayan area. Traditional agriculture and the different agricultural systems practiced in Mexico are also addressed. The document continues with the subject of terraces, presenting the various names given to them in different studies and regions. Terraces in Mexico have always been important for societal development—from ancient cultures to the rural communities managing the systems today. Through terraces, models may be generated to help improve soil management, control erosional processes, and support food security for the population.