Campeche

In the early 1500s, Spanish explorers sailed across the Gulf of Mexico and established what would become the city of Campeche. Founded by Francisco Montejo in 1540, the city was named after the local Maya village, Ah Kim Pech, combining new Spanish settlements with rich indigenous culture.

During the 1600s, Campeche became known for its strong defenses against pirates. The city built thick walls and forts to keep these attackers away, showing its strength in the face of frequent raids during the colonial times.

Campeche was important to the Spanish Empire, serving as a major port for trading and defending against pirates. It was a key place for shipping valuable goods like logwood and silver back to Spain.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Campeche grew and changed a lot. Its port became busier, and the city embraced both its colonial past and indigenous roots, creating a unique culture.

Today, Campeche is a lively city famous for its beautifully preserved old buildings, which earned it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its colorful streets, active cultural life, and historic sights draw visitors from around the world.