Coahuila

Coahuila Mexico was previously known as Coahuila de Zaragoza and is located to the north of the country. On the map of Coahuila one can see that the north of the city accounts for almost a 512 km stretch to the US-Mexico border. This is adjacent to the US state of Texas. With an approximate area of almost 151, 571 square kilometer it is no wonder that it is the country’s third biggest state. Saltillo is the capital of Coahuila. Coahuila Mexico was occupied by the little known Desert Culture tribes in the early stages after which the Spanish took over. It was around 1575 that Saltillo was founded and became the economic center for the state's cattle ranches on the map of Coahuila. The annual fair in Saltillo is even today an activity which is held with great fanfare. It is perhaps one of the most important trade fairs of northern Mexico and attracted goods from Europe and Asia as well as other parts of Mexico. Texas too was a part of the map of Coahuila till as the early 19th century. However friction between the American settlers and Spanish authorities enforced an invasion by the US in 1846. In the Treaty of 1848 which followed subsequently, Texas was separated for good from the map of Coahuila.

Coahuila is one of the least populous states in Mexico. Here one will find tourist attractions to the south of Coahuila as well as about one to two hours west of Monterrey. One will find many ‘regionmontanos’ (as Monterrey residents are fondly called) frequenting Saltillo which is a popular weekend destination for them. The city’s clear air and the relaxed pace of the city is the major reason for its attraction. One will find here a ‘Cathedral’ constructed between 1746 and 1800. This structure is a masterpiece of the Churrigueresque style. The ornately carved façade and the twin towers with fluted columns are a sight to behold. One can also plan a visit to Torreon in the southwest corner of Coahuila which is fondly known as an overgrown farm town. Here one can pay a visit to the largest copper refinery in Mexico. The broad streets well laid out on a widely spaced grid gives it the feel of a city in the American Midwest. In the warm days a stroll along the tree-lined Alameda feels wonderful.