Tepic is the capital city of Nayarit and is located in the central part of the state. The name comes from the Nahuatl and means ‘place of strong stones’. The city was founded in 1532, and was originally named ‘Santiago de Galicia de Compostela’ (capital city of Nueva Galicia) by Nuño Beltran Guzman. For a long time, Nayarit was considered part of Jalisco. It was not until 1917 that it became a state.
As the principal city, Tepic is home to the government authorities and has the largest population in the state. The municipality has a prosperous economy; including agriculture, animal farming, silviculture, commerce and services, and is also renowned for its manufacturing, tobacco, and food and beverages industries.
Tepic has the second largest indigenous presence in the state which lends a nostalgic air to the city. The areas inhabited by the Huicholes, Coras, Purepechas and Mazahuas are very picturesque. Many distinguished characters were also born here, including Juan Escutia and Amado Nervo, among others.
One of the favorite locations of both the locals and tourists alike is Cerro de la Cruz. There is free transportation to get to Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross). With the telescopes at the top of the hill, once can view the city, Matatipac Valley and the gorgeous sunsets.
Just a few kilometers from the city, in Mesa de Picachos, is Cerro Bola (Bola Hill). This tourist spot offers climbing and rappelling and the adventure doesn’t stop here. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountaineering and camping in safe areas and then spend the night around a campfire.
Some interesting places to visit in the city are Tepic’s Cathedral, Cruz de Zacate Temple, the Government Palace, the Aramara Visual Arts Museum, the Popular Arts Museum, Cuatro Pueblos House, the Amado Nervo Museum, the Juan Escutia Museum, La Loma Drive, Alameda Central and the Aguamilpa Hydroelectric Dam.
There are many fun recreational activities to enjoy, especially in the surrounding areas. These include golf, rock climbing, rappelling, camping, hiking, canoeing, sport fishing and water skiing. All types of water sports can be enjoyed at Aguamilpa Dam.
The city has many tourist attractions and warmly welcomes visitors from all over the world. The friendliness of its people and its many charms make it hard to beat.
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