Orizaba: The City of Happy Waters – A Historic Gem in Veracruz

The City of Happy Waters

Nestled in the central region of the Altas Montañas de Veracruz (Veracruz’s High Mountains), surrounded by rivers of crystalline water that flow through the roads of the city and with a majestic watchman such as the Citlaltépetl volcano, the Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) of Orizaba faithfully awaits to show you its Historical and cultural wealth, a legacy of the fusion of pre-Hispanic roots such as the Totonacas, Toltecas, Tlaxcalatecas and Mexicas with the new colonial customs.

Its privileged location between the Port of Veracruz and Mexico City made Orizaba one of the most important towns during the Viceroyalty since it was an important link in the commercial routes of that time.

Because of the origin of its name in Nahuatl, Ahuilizapan it is also known as the “Ciudad de las Aguas Alegres” (City of Happy Waters), the best time to visit is from February to November when the climate is hot, making it the ideal cradle for one of the best coffee beans in the country, in addition to multiple dishes such as “chileatole”, “picadas” or “tripas de leche”, gastronomic delights that you cannot not miss.

What to do in the Magical Town of Orizaba?

Step into the streets of this city, once visited by Hernán Cortés after his first visit to Tenochtitlán. Explore the area's historical monuments, such as its Palacio Municipal (Municipal Palace), Teatro Ignacio de la Llave (Ignacio de la Llave’s Theater), Catedral de San Miguel Arcángel (San Miguel Arcángel's Cathedral) - a worthy representative of the Ionian style - or the houses of illustrious citizens such as Benito Juárez García or Francisco I. Madero.

With a postcard-worthy architectural heritage, cultural diversity full of traditions and gastronomy; Orizaba is waiting to welcome you.