Facts About Mexican Houses
Mexican houses are famous for their Spanish and Native American influences, as well as their explosive colors, which enable these houses to be picked out even in a neighborhood full of other styles. Modern Mexican houses are inspired by the haciendas of Mexico's past, which were the estates of the country's gentry. Does this Spark an idea?
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Living Conditions
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With many Mexicans now living in large towns and cities, Mexican houses tend to be crowded, with up to five or six people sharing a single house. Often, this is a result of multiple generations of one family living in a house. While many Mexicans live in suburban areas, a number of shanty towns still exist in which people live in desperate conditions.
Modern Trends
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Among modern Mexican houses certain trends are prevalent. First, the house will likely be painted in bright colors, including blues, yellows and reds. On the exterior of the house, common features include open-air porches and arched doorways. Entering the house, stucco or adobe is often used inside, with ceramic tiles appearing regularly. The walls of the house, in contrast to the trend in many countries, will likely be rough. The furniture found within will also be painted bright and will likely be constructed of solid wood.
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History of Haciendas
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In the past, hacienda estates were owned by Mexico's landed gentry and once made up a significant portion of the country's agricultural land; the word refers to both the grounds and the house itself of an estate. The land was granted to many Spanish nobles in the sixteenth century and later the haciendas become autonomous social units, acting as the center of communities and supporting local industry and crafts. In the early twentiet century, revolution swept the country and troops commanded by leading figures such as Emiliano Zapata were responsible for the burning of many hacienda buildings.
Haciendas Today
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Many haciendas are still in existence in Mexico today, though many have been much reduced by the events of the early twentieth century and are now bare and, in some cases, half-ruined. The haciendas left in better condition have since been brought by rich Mexicans or are owned by descendants of the original inhabitants.
Customs
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Entering a Mexican's house requires a guest to be aware of etiquette. First, a guest shouldn't sit until they've been told not only to sit but also where to sit. Also, it's customary to arrive around half an hour late if invited over to a Mexican house for dinner; to arrive on time is considered rude. When arriving at the house, you should bring some kind of gift; one recommendation would be sweets or some flowers.
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References
- Photo Credit flag button mexico image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
