Founded almost 500 years ago by Captain Diego Mazariegos, Chiapa de Corzo is today one of Chiapas most beautiful and attractive touristic destinations.

The tribe of the "Chiapas", of whom we have recollection for their firm character and strong convictions, inhabited this place. A legend recalls that before becoming subjects to the Spaniards during the conquest, the "Chiapas" preferred death, so they hurled themselves along with their women and children, down from one of the highest points of "El Sumidero" Canyon.

Fiction or reality this story reflects a valiant and manly temperament, qualities that today are clearly reflected in a touristically leading district.

In the nearby surroundings there are prehispanic remains of the Mayan culture. Yet it is after the colonization, with the arrival of he Spanish authorities and the Dominican monks, that beautiful constructions are edified. Like the Moorish style fountain that can be seen in its central plaza and that encompasses all the elements of Muslim art, also a dome of renaissance inspiration and structural elements of the gothic period.

The imposing and most beautiful ex-convent of Santo Domingo, was edified by Friar Pedro de Barrientos between 1554 and 1576 Today, after being rescued and remodeled by the local authorities, it has be converted into an important cultural center that houses the Museum of Lacquered, one of the craft products that is developed with amazing mastery in the area.

In Chiapa de Corzo are located the docks for the beginning of the fabulous experience that is the ride of the "Sumidero Canyon", through the Grijalva River, passing between sheer cliffs of more than 1000 mts. high, and for about the length of 32 kms. admiration and surprise accompany the visitor in one of the most impressive views in Mexico.

A special mention is due fur the San Sebastian archeological remains, as well as for the cheerful and boisterous people of Chiapa de Corzo, who are gifted in the art of pampering their visitors and making of their stay a unforgettable experience, one that will surely will de repeated. The touristic services are abundant and of the highest quality and the gastronomy superb! with traditional dishes like the "cochito" 'pepita with tasajo", and pork and beef with chipilín.

See the Photo Album of Chiapa de Corzo

This Article comes from "El Libro de Oro Chiapas 2000" page 183