Matamoros

Matamoros is a border city in Tamaulipas, Mexico, spreading along the southern bank of the Rio Grande river. Four international bridges connect it to Brownsville, Texas, making the city an important transit point between the two countries.

The city developed in the 1820s as a trading post on the Rio Grande river. During the Mexican-American War in the 1840s, it served as a strategic military base.

The city takes its name from Mariano Matamoros, an independence hero and priest who fought in the early 19th century. Many downtown streets carry historical names that recall different episodes of Mexican history.

The main route runs through downtown, where banks and exchange offices sit next to each other. Visitors should expect long waiting times at bridge crossings, especially on weekdays.

Playa Bagdad sits about 27 kilometers east and transforms into a regional recreation center during Holy Week. Fishermen organize regular tournaments there, displaying their catches on the beach.

Location: Matamoros

Inception: 1774

Elevation above the sea: 9 m

Part of: Mexico–United States border

Website: http://matamoros.gob.mx

GPS coordinates: 25.88102,-97.50649

Latest update: December 14, 2025 23:11