Durango is the fourth largest of Mexico’s 32 states. Roughly translated, Durango means fertile land, many rivers, surrounded by mountains. Landlocked, Durango is located in northwestern Mexico, about 6,100 feet above sea level, covering approximately 47,000 square miles.
Durango’s population is estimated at over 1,600,000 people, most of whom are Roman Catholic and Spanish-speaking. Settled in the mid 1500s by Basque Spaniards, Durango was recognized as an official Mexican state in 1825.
Mexico is the world’s largest producer of silver. The state of Durango, which originated as a mining town, is the third largest producer of silver among Mexico’s 32 states. Durango also produces iron, gold and copper.
Travelers to Durango will enjoy an average temperature of 70 degrees F. With surrounding mountains including the Sierra Madre and the bordering Chihuahuan Desert, Durango offers stunning scenery, archeological sites, canyons, rivers, forests, historic districts, museums, cultural attractions and authentic settings used in western movie productions. Durango also touts itself as the birthplace of Poncho Villa, the notorious outlaw who rose to fame during the Mexican Revolution.
The capital of Durango is also called Durango and is Durango’s largest city, with an estimated population of 500,000. Located in south-central Durango and settled in 1563, the city of Durango is recognized for both its commerce and tourist attractions. Travelers to Durango should definitely include a trip to the capital city for all it offers.
Durango’s capital is especially noted for its historic district consisting of over 1000 buildings displaying various styles of architecture. The Durango Cultural Complex includes numerous museums such as the National Institute of Anthropology and History and the Institute of Culture of the State, with artifacts from the Mexican Revolution on exhibit. Western movie fans should check out the Museum of Movies. Another must-see is the 18th century Basilica Menor Cathedral with its dome, towers, gorgeous painted ceilings, sculptures and ceramic art.
Located near the capital city is another tourist favorite, the restored 19th century Hacienda de la Ferreria. Tourists can also visit the nearby Chalchihuite ruins which date back to 100 A.D. There is also an accompanying museum at the site.
While in Durango, travelers should take in the many additional attractions Durango has to offer from parks, winding trails and waterfalls to lakes and rivers, all ideal for biking, camping, kayaking, fishing and other adventure sports.
