The Chinampas of Xochimilco are a unique agricultural innovation developed by the Aztecs in what is now Mexico City. Often referred to as “floating gardens,” chinampas are small, rectangular plots of fertile land built on shallow lake beds. They are created by layering mud, lake sediment, and decaying vegetation, and surrounded by canals that provide irrigation and transportation. This ingenious method allowed the Aztecs to cultivate crops year-round, yielding multiple harvests annually. Today, the chinampas of Xochimilco are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the sustainable farming techniques of the ancient Mesoamerican civilization and supporting a rich biodiversity that includes various endemic species.