Taxco, Mexico, as seen from the Statue of Christ Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:NorthChristTaxco.JPG Author: AlejandroLinaresGarcia
Taxco is a small city in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. It is officially known as Taxco de Alarcón, but is commonly referred to simply as Taxco. The city covers 347 sq km (134 sq mi) and has a population of 40,000 people (2011 estimate).
Street in Taxco de Alarcón, Mexico Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:ReformaTaxco.JPG Author: AlejandroLinaresGarcia
The name Taxco was derived from the Nahuatl word tlacheco, meaning "place of the ballgame", in reference to the ceremonial ballgame played by the prehispanic Mesoamericans. Another theory states that the name comes from a different word, tatzco, meaning "father of the water", in reference to the high waterfall in the area.
Located 1,778 m (5,833 ft) above sea level, Taxco is today one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Mexico. Its charming period houses has attracted tourists far and wide, making Taxco an increasingly popular tourist destination.
Houses around Plaza Borda in Taxco Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Taxco_Z%C3%B3calo.JPG Author: Labé
Taxco is located 170 km to the southwest of Mexico City. Spanish conquistadors arrived in the area upon hearing Aztec tales that the area was rich in silver. That indeed proved true, and the town was created largely for the purpose of extracting the silver ore.
Major silver mining took place in the 16th century, and continued for a hundred years until the ore was depleted. Taxco then went into decline until the 18th century, when new lodes of silver was discovered by José de la Borda, reviving the town's fortunes.
Casa Borda, Taxco Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:BordaTaxco.JPG Author: AlejandroLinaresGarcia
In 1932, William Spratling introduced silversmithing to Taxco. The town was soon recognized throughout Mexico for the high quality of its silverwork. The tradition of crafting silver into jewelry continues today, and forms part of the town's economy.
Igreja de Santa Prisca, Taxco Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:FacadePriscaTaxco.JPG Author: AlejandroLinaresGarcia
Visiting Taxco
You can reach Taxco by bus from Mexico City. A one-way ticket costs 130 pesos.
Places of Interest in Taxco
Casa Borda House built by the Borda family for the parish priest in 1759.
Casa de Figueroa House near Plaza Borda with an intriguing history.
Iglesia de Santa Prisca The main church in the middle of Taxco. Its construction was funded by José de la Borda, who made his fortune from silver.
Museo de Arte Virreinal Casa HumboldtA beautiful historic house named after naturalist Baron von Humboldt who overnighted there in 1803.
Museo Guillermo Spratling Museum exhibiting pre-Columbian artifacts and other works of art assembled by William Spratling.
Plaza Borda Public square in the mittle of Taxco lined with old buildings. Today it is a touristic area with shops and restaurants.
Taxco Market A local market where you can admire the local produce and handicrafts.
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