Colonia Ajusco

The Colonia Ajusco, south of Coyoacán in Mexico City, is located in a volcanic region similar to Pedregal de Santo Domingo and La Candelaria. On a terrain of black lava from the Xitle volcano, its first inhabitants transformed the desolate pedregal into a vibrant community. Through effort, they moved rocks, opened roads, built homes, and established community life. While Luis Barragán designed the Pedregal de San Ángel with lava and endemic vegetation in the area, the residents of Ajusco faced challenges such as water supply and electricity. Fifty years ago, Pedro Meyer documented daily life in Ajusco with his camera: from the La Bola market to gatherings and celebrations. His images capture the essence of a community that emerged from lava, building a full and meaningful life.