Veracruz, Major port city on the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico
Veracruz stretches along the Gulf coast with wide boulevards running parallel to the water and a busy harbor basin. Colonial buildings line the narrow streets around the central plaza, while modern residential areas spread inland.
Cortés landed here in 1519 and founded the first Spanish city on the American mainland, which quickly became the main port for trade between Europe and the viceroyalty. French and American troops later blockaded the harbor during separate military conflicts in the 19th century.
Every evening, couples gather in the Zócalo to dance danzón while live musicians play Caribbean rhythms. Cafés and street vendors offer strong coffee and fresh empanadas as part of daily life here.
The airport sits about 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of town and offers connections to larger Mexican cities as well as some international destinations. Buses and taxis run frequently between the airport and downtown, especially during morning and evening hours.
The fort of San Juan de Ulúa stands on a small island offshore and was later used as a prison that could only be reached by boat. Fish vendors sell fresh catch every morning along the Malecón, where locals gather to eat ceviche before work.
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