The history of San Miguel Atlapulco dates back to pre-Hispanic times. The name “Atlapulco” comes from the Nahuatl word meaning “next to hot water” or “place of hot springs,” referring to the area’s thermal springs and underground waters.

In pre-Columbian times, the region was inhabited by indigenous groups like the Nahuas and Xochimilcas, who used the hot springs for medicinal and ritual baths, considering them sacred and beneficial for health.

With the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, the area became part of New Spain, introducing new social structures, Catholicism, and colonial architecture still seen in some old buildings.