Casa del Rio

Tlacotalpan is a city in Tlacotalpan Municipality in the Mexican state of Veracruz, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998 primarily for its architecture and colonial-era layout. The town was established in 1550 on what was originally an island in the Papaloapan River. From the colonial era to the 20th century, it was an important port, one of few interior river ports in Latin America. However, with the construction of the railroad, Tlacotalpan's importance faded. Starting in the latter 20th century, efforts to conserve the city's Spanish/Caribbean architecture and layout began, culminating in World Heritage status. Today, its main economic support is fishing and tourism, especially to the annual feast in honor of Our Lady of Candlemas.

As you walk through Tlacotalpan's cobblestone streets, you'll be greeted by brightly colored houses adorned with intricate wrought iron balconies. The town's architecture is a stunning example of the fusion between Spanish and Caribbean styles, creating an aesthetic that is both unique and captivating.

One of the town's most notable landmarks is the Church of St. Mary of the Assumption, an 18th-century baroque masterpiece that is a testament to the town's deep Catholic roots. The church's intricate façade and interior are sure to leave you in awe.