The Cactus: The cactus represents the endurance and resilience of the Mexican people. It is also a symbol of the country's natural beauty and diversity.
The Snake: The Snake represents wisdom and knowledge. It is also a symbol of fertility and renewal, which are important concepts in Mexican culture.
Additionally, there is also significant symbolic meaning regarding how these figures appear within the scene represented in Mexico's coat of arms:
- Snake in Eagle's Beak: The eagle stands on a prickly pear cactus devouring a rattlesnake. This scene commemorates an older Aztec legend according to which the ancient Aztecs, after many years of wandering, built their city, Tenochtitlan, at the site where they saw an eagle perched on a prickly pear devouring a serpent. That very spot eventually gave way to what is now known as Mexico City.
- Olive and Oak Wreaths: The seal was modified by the current administration of president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, adding elements surrounding the scene which include olive and oak branches representing peace and strength respectively.