Discover the charm of the State of Veracruz
Welcome to the State of Veracruz! Veracruz de Ignacio de la Llave, generally known as Veracruz, is one of the 31 states that together with Mexico City make up the 32 federal entities of Mexico. The state is located in eastern Mexico and borders Tamaulipas to the north, Oaxaca and Chiapas to the south, the Gulf of Mexico to the east, San Luis Potosí, Hidalgo and Puebla to the west, and Tabasco to the southeast.</p >
Veracruz, officially called the Free and Sovereign State of Veracruz de Ignacio de la Llave, is one of the thirty-one states that, together with Mexico City, make up Mexico. Its capital is Xalapa-Enríquez and its most populated city, Veracruz. It has a population of 8,112,505 inhabitants. (2015 estimate), 6.8% of the country's total. It is the third most populated state and the eleventh most densely populated with 113 inhabitants/km².
A rich and diverse history
In pre-Hispanic times, the territory that today occupies the State of Veracruz was home to the Olmec, Huastec and Totonac civilizations. The first Spanish contact occurred in 1518, when Juan de Grijalva explored the Tonalá River. During the Viceroyalty of New Spain, the territory of Veracruz was similar to the Province of Veracruz. After the Independence of Mexico, it became one of the original federative entities, maintaining almost the same territorial extension until today.
Today, the State of Veracruz is recognized for its cultural importance at an international level. It houses two of the thirty-five places considered World Heritage in Mexico: the Pre-Hispanic City of El Tajín and the Historical Monuments Zone of Tlacotalpan. These sites are witnesses of the rich history and cultural heritage that Veracruz has to offer.
Explore its charming cities
The State of Veracruz has eight metropolitan areas, each with its own unique charm. The city of Veracruz is one of the main tourist destinations in the state, famous for its beautiful Malecón, its pristine beaches and its iconic zócalo. Xalapa, the state capital, is known for its architectural beauty and museums, such as the Xalapa Anthropology Museum. Poza Rica, Orizaba, Minatitlán, Coatzacoalcos, Córdoba and Acayucan also offer unmissable experiences and attractions.
Nature and adventure
The State of Veracruz is also home to impressive natural landscapes and adventure opportunities. From the majestic mountains of the Sierra Madre Oriental to spectacular waterfalls like Naolinco and Salto de Eyipantla in San Andrés Tuxtla, the natural beauty of Veracruz will take your breath away. Nature lovers can enjoy activities such as bird watching in the Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve or explore the underwater wonders in the Veracruzano Reef System National Park.
In addition to its rich history and cultural heritage, the State of Veracruz is known for its exquisite gastronomy. Try typical dishes such as Veracruz tamales, picadillo, fresh seafood and the famous high-altitude coffee from Coatepec.
In summary, the State of Veracruz is a tourist gem in Mexico that combines history, culture, nature and adventure. Don't miss the opportunity to explore and discover everything this wonderful region has to offer!