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Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz
“Normally tourists are not attracted to Coatzacoalcos. It is an industrial town that specializes in the Petrochemical industry. An Oil Boomtown.
Pemex headquarters are here and 85% of the country’s oil production takes place here. Important to the economy YES. Tourist destination not so much.”
By Dorothy Bell
Name: Coatzacoalcos in Nahuatl means “The place where the snake hides.”This can be attributed to the legend where the bird God Quetzalcoatl left for his final voyage with the promise to return.
Location: Coatzacoalcos is located in the State of Veracruz on the Southern most point of the Gulf of Mexico
Weather: Hot and humid in the summer. Hot in the winters. The rainy season is June to November. Has been hit by many hurricanes. Hurricane season is June to November
January Average Highs 26.3C (79.3F) Lows 18.2C (64.8F)
July Average Highs 31.6C (90.9) Lows 23.1C (73.6)
Population: 306,000
Elevation: Sea level to 50 m (160 ft)
Founded: Pre-hispanic evidence shows Olmec settlements and then later Mayan. Cortez arranged funding for a settlement and called it Villa del Espíritu Santo.
Medical: 3rd largest city in the state so has numerous hospitals, doctors and clinics.
Money: Plenty of Banks and ATMs.
History:
Pre-Columbian Era
Indigenous Peoples: The area around Coatzacoalcos was originally inhabited by the Olmec civilization, one of the earliest and most influential Mesoamerican cultures. The Olmecs are known for their monumental stone heads and significant contributions to the region’s cultural and religious practices.
Colonial Period
Spanish Exploration: The Spanish arrived in the region in the early 16th century. Hernán Cortés is known to have traveled through the area during his expedition to Honduras in 1525.
Colonial Development: During the colonial period, the region around Coatzacoalcos was not a major focal point for Spanish settlement compared to other areas in Veracruz. However, its strategic location at the mouth of the Coatzacoalcos River made it an important site for transportation and trade.
19th Century
Mexican Independence: After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Coatzacoalcos began to develop more significantly as a town. It became an important river port, facilitating trade and transportation within the region.
Economic Development: The late 19th century saw increased economic activity in Coatzacoalcos, particularly with the development of the railroad. The Tehuantepec National Railway, completed in the early 20th century, connected Coatzacoalcos on the Gulf of Mexico with Salina Cruz on the Pacific Ocean, enhancing its role as a key transportation hub.
20th Century to Present
Port Development: Coatzacoalcos evolved into one of Mexico’s most important port cities. The development of the petrochemical industry in the mid-20th century significantly boosted the local economy. The establishment of the Pajaritos, Cangrejera, and Morelos petrochemical complexes transformed the city into a major center for the oil and gas industry.
Name Change: The city was officially renamed Puerto México in 1907 but reverted to its original name, Coatzacoalcos, in 1936.
Modern Era
Economic Hub: Today, Coatzacoalcos remains a vital economic hub in Veracruz and Mexico. Its port facilities are crucial for the import and export of goods, particularly oil and petrochemical products. The city’s economy is heavily influenced by the activities of PEMEX, Mexico’s state-owned petroleum company.
Infrastructure and Growth: Coatzacoalcos has seen significant infrastructure development, including the construction of bridges, highways, and modern port facilities, contributing to its growth and modernization.
Key Features and Cultural Sites
Malecon de Coatzacoalcos: A scenic waterfront promenade that is a popular spot for locals and visitors, offering views of the Coatzacoalcos River and the Gulf of Mexico.
Museums and Cultural Centers: The city has several museums and cultural centers that highlight its history, including the Olmec heritage and the development of the petrochemical industry.
Fiestas and Festivals: Coatzacoalcos hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich cultural heritage and community spirit.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Economic Diversification: While the petrochemical industry remains central to Coatzacoalcos’ economy, efforts are being made to diversify its economic base to ensure sustainable growth.
Environmental Concerns: The city faces environmental challenges, particularly related to industrial pollution and the need for sustainable development practices.
Getting There
By Air – Minatitlán/Coatzacoalcos National Airport (MTT): This is the closest airport, located about 15 km from Coatzacoalcos. A taxi from the airport to the city takes approximately 16 minutes (Rome2Rio).
By Bus – From Veracruz City – ADO and Autobuses Unidos (AU) operate buses from Veracruz to Coatzacoalcos. The journey takes about 5 hours
TRV Autobuses also offers services with frequent departures, taking around 4 hours
From Villahermosa – ADO operates buses from Villahermosa Airport to Coatzacoalcos, with a duration of about 3 hours and 10 minutes.
By Car – Driving: The drive from Veracruz City to Coatzacoalcos is approximately 315 km and takes about 3.5 hours along Highway 180
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