Cordoba
Córdoba, officially known as Heroica Córdoba, is a city and the seat of the municipality of the same name in the Mexican state of Veracruz. Córdoba is located on the edge of the mountain range of the Sierra Madre Oriental.
Córdoba was an important point of the old commercial corridor from Mexico City to the port of Veracruz. The city boasts of its historical importance, its colonial places and buildings, its cultural centers, parks, and its gastronomy.
Cordoba stands as a blend of its colonial past and modern influences.
Climate & Weather
Córdoba lies at an elevation of 817 m above mean sea level and has a warm climate.
- January: average monthly 19°C
- February: average monthly 19°C
- March: average monthly 22°C
- April average monthly 24°C
- May: average monthly 25°C
- June: average monthly 25°C
- July: average monthly 24°C
- August: average monthly 24°C
- September: average monthly 24°C
- October: average monthly 23°C
- November: average monthly 21°C
- December: average monthly 20°C
Most precipitation falls during the rainy season: from May to October.
The best time to visit Cordoba
The best time to visit Cordoba is from November to April when the weather is pleasant with lower chances of rainfall. The temperatures are more moderate, making it an ideal time to explore the city and its surroundings.
Check the current weather forecasts closer to your planned visit.
Origin of the name
Córdoba, also known as Lomas de Huilango (Nahuatl Huilango), and the City of the Thirty Knights since it was founded by 30 members of important families in the region.
History & Timeline
Cordoba has a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial period.
Cordoba was founded in 1618 and quickly became a significant center for agriculture and trade due to its strategic location. The city prospered through the cultivation of sugarcane, coffee, and other crops.
The city was severely damaged by the 1973 Veracruz earthquake.
Cordoba played a role in the Mexican War of Independence (1810-1821) against Spanish rule. Notable figures like Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla passed through the region, contributing to the struggle for independence.
On August 24, 1821, Agustín de Iturbide, Chief of the Trigarante Army, and Juan O’Donojú, the last viceroy of New Spain, met in Cordoba to sign the Treaty of Córdoba, which established Mexican Independence.
Be that as it may, this treaty was rejected by the Spanish government. Spain did not recognize Mexico’s independence for 15 years, until December 28, 1836 (when they signed the Treaty of Santa Maria-Calatrava).
In the 19th century, Cordoba continued to be an essential agricultural and commercial hub.
By decree of November 29, 1830, Cordoba was granted the political category of City.
By decree of 1880, the title of Heroic was granted to the city due to the defense before the Spanish royalist forces.
In 1902 Córdoba became the interchange point of the narrow-gauge Córdoba and Huatusco Railroad to Coscomatepec.
Cordoba was also a scene of conflict during the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920). The city experienced battles and social upheaval as different factions vied for control.
Cordoba was the capital of the State of Veracruz between 1916 and 1920.
In the 20th and 21st centuries, Cordoba has evolved into a dynamic city with a diverse economy.
Things to see and to do in Cordoba
Tourist attractions and sightseeing:
- Barrio de San Sebastián
- Barrio de La Pitayitas
- Zocalo
- The Cathedral of Cordoba
- Municipal Palace
- Former Spanish Casino
- Portal de la Gloria
- Portal de Zevallos (Former Palace of the Counts of Zeballos)
- Ex-convent of Santa Rosa de Lima
- Convent of San Antonio
- Church of San Sebastián
- Church of San Miguel Arcángel
- Church of San José
- Ex-Hacienda of San Francisco Toxpan
- Pedro Díaz Theater
- Building of the Notary Public
- Palacio Fernández
The sculptural monuments of Cordoba:
- Obelisk erected in memory of the battle of May 21
- Obelisk erected in memory of the Burned House
- Citizen Reader
- Shangri-la Arch
- Roundabout of the Araucaria
- Civic Square in honor of Don Benito Juarez
- Plaza del V Centenario
Cultural centers, theaters, and auditoriums:
- Pedro Díaz Theater
- Arena Córdoba
- Anthropology Museum
- Contemporary art gallery of the former convent of Santa Rosa de Lima
- Los Portales Cultural Center
- Palmillas Museum
- Emilio Nava Gallery
- House of Culture
- USBI Córdoba
- Dr. Manuel Suárez Auditorium (E.S.B.A.O.)
- Paso Coyol Auditorium
- IMSS Auditorium
- Coffee Museum
Parks of Cordoba:
- San José Park
- Ecological Park Paso Coyol
- Paseo of San Antonio River
- Alameda Murillo Vidal
Nearby tourist attractions (1-day trip)
Here are some options for one-day trips from Cordoba:
Orizaba
Venture to Orizaba, a nearby city known for its stunning Pico de Orizaba, the highest peak in Mexico. Explore the city’s historic center, visit the Palacio de Hierro (Iron Palace), and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Fortín de las Flores
Just a short drive away, Fortín de las Flores is a charming town famous for its colorful flowers. Take a leisurely stroll through the floral-adorned streets, visit local markets, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Córdoba Coffee Route
Explore the picturesque coffee plantations surrounding Cordoba. Take a guided tour to learn about the coffee-making process, from cultivation to roasting, and savor the flavors of freshly brewed local coffee.
Cascadas de Texolo
Head to Xico to visit Cascadas de Texolo, a series of waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers, and you can enjoy hiking trails leading to various cascades.
Coscomatepec de Bravo
This historic town offers a glimpse into the region’s past. Visit the Church of San Juan Bautista, explore the central square, and appreciate the colonial architecture that characterizes the town.
Mágico Pueblo of Coatepec
Coatepec is recognized as a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) for its cultural and historical significance. Wander through its charming streets, visit local markets, and explore the Ex-Hacienda Zimpizahua.
Cuetzalan del Progreso
For a more extended day trip, consider visiting Cuetzalan in the state of Puebla. This town is known for its indigenous culture, coffee plantations, and the impressive Yohualichan archaeological site.
Catemaco and Lake Catemaco
Travel to Catemaco, a town located near a picturesque lake. Explore the town’s vibrant markets and consider taking a boat ride on Lake Catemaco to enjoy the lush scenery.
Maltrata and La Estancia
Discover the scenic landscapes of Maltrata and La Estancia. Enjoy the fresh mountain air, explore local trails, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve
Nature enthusiasts can head to the Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve, known for its biodiversity. Explore the lush tropical forests, spot diverse wildlife, and visit the town of San Andrés Tuxtla.
Festivals
Córdoba Dance Festival
It takes place every 2 years in different venues in the city of Córdoba, although it has already been extended to Veracruz and Xalapa as a special gala. It is part of the Youth America Grand Prix and attracts representatives of the best dance schools worldwide.
Emilio Carballido Festival
It takes place every year in August in honor of the Cordovan playwright Emilio Carballido Fentanes. Within the framework of this festival, there are presentations of books, orchestras, opera, dance, dance, painting, film, and photography.
Treaty Festival of Córdoba
It is held every year in celebration of the signing of the treaties that gave freedom to Mexico from Spain. Its main venues are the Pedro Díaz Theater and the cultural center “Los Portales”.
Transportation
From 1902 to 1953, Córdoba was served by the Córdoba and Huatusco Railroad narrow gauge railroad. The line operated as a unique and scenic 2 ft (610 mm) gauge branch of Ferrocarril Mexicano from 1909 through 1951.
Let us know if this article was useful for you
