Veracruz, the state with the longest coastline on the Gulf of Mexico, is virtually synonymous with enjoyment, music, dancing, magic and witchcraft.
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It is set in the east of the country, and borders on Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosi, Hidalgo, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas and Tabasco. Its climate varies according to the region and ranges from hot and humid on the coast to extremely cold in the mountainous areas.
From the earliest times, the state's favourable conditions encouraged the development of major cultures such as the Olmec, Huastec and Totanac, which created sites such as El Tajin, San Lorenzo and Tres Zapotes.
The conquest of the region culminated with the founding of Villa Rica de la Veracruz by Hernan Cortés in 1519. During the period of Independence, the port of Veracruz was the scene of the Mexicans' spirited resistance to the invading forces.
Veracuz is a land of elegant colonial cities such as Cordoba, villages with rich traditions such as Papantla and Tlacotalpan, magical places such as Catemaco and its Isla de los Monos and others with a wealth of cultural activity, such as Xalapa. However, it is also the site of coffee plantations in exuberant surroundings, natural wonders such as waterfalls, lagoons, rivers and the lush coastal strip of the Costa Esmeralda. The colourful fiestas held throughout the year culminate in the world-famous carnival, which, combined with the superb local cuisine, make this an exceptional state.
