VISITING Hidalgo

Hidalgo is known for its rugged terrain.  While there is a section of the state that sits on a coastal plain, the majority of Hidalgo’s territory is mountainous.  The coastal plain region of the south is low and flat; flora like prickly pear and mesquite grows well there.  The Huasteca sierra region boasts a lush environment for forest growth like ebony and mahogany.  Animals that make their home throughout the state’s territory include an opossum, wild cats, rattlesnakes, and badgers.  Some of Hidalgo’s tallest peaks include Cerros la Penuela, Las Navajas, and El Agua Azul.  The main river that flows through the state is the Moctezuma River.  Because Hidalgo has a varied topography, it also enjoys various climactic elements depending on the region; the climate ranges from semi-hot and humid to temperate and semi-dry.

Present-day Hidalgo is part of the historic Mesoamerican region known for its rich history.  Many indigenous peoples traveled through this region, often leaving their mark in the form of archeological evidence or, perhaps, were influenced by what they found as they passed through the territory.  Major groups that occupied the Hidalgo region included the Toltecs, Chichimecas, and Aztecs.  After the Spanish Conquest, Hernan Cortes controlled the territory of Hidalgo and opened it up to Spanish missionaries.  The first Franciscans arrived in 1523 to set up missions and build churches in the area.  Under the governorship of the notorious Nuno Beltran de Guzman, the indigenous population greatly declined due to rough treatment by the Spanish and European diseases.  Over the subsequent centuries, Hidalgo became well known for its mining industry.  Agricultural practices, like raising livestock, led to the construction of many colonial haciendas.  Both silver and gold have been mined in the region as the mining industry ebbed and flowed from era to era.  After Mexico won its independence from Spain, the territory remained part of the state of Mexico until it was declared an independent state in 1869.  Today, the state has become increasingly industrialized due to its proximity to Mexico City.  Its historical, cultural, and scenic attractions draw many visitors to the state, making tourism an important Hidalgo industry.