Chiapa de Corzo is a small city in the Grijalva River valley in the highlands of Chiapas. It is about 9 miles east of the capitol of Tuxtla Gutierrez and is home to nearly 40,000 people. It was originally settled by the Soctona ethnic group, the only ones who didn’t surrender to the Spanish invasion. They fought bravely until Pedro de Alvarado arrived to launch an aggressive, deadly campaign that defeated and nearly exterminated them. From the brave and noble Soctona people arose a city that is both beautiful and full of fascinating history.
The main square is very traditional in design and décor. It is surrounded by arches that were built in the 1700’s; an old tree that is considered sacred shades part of the square.
The city is often used as a jumping off place to other destinations. From here you can get a boat tour through the Cañón del Sumidero, the astounding canyon surrounded by cliffs that will literally strain your neck as you try to make out the rocky summits. It is definitely a trip worth taking—after you see all the interesting sites in Chiapa de Corzo!
The Santo Domingo cathedral is a popular attraction both for its history and its beauty. It doesn’t look big at first but it’s huge, nearly a city block! Its thick white walls and high wooden-beamed ceilings are a testament to the loving craftsmanship of earlier times. The main bell dates back to 1576 and was cast from silver, copper and a small bit of gold. It weighs about 5 tons and can be heard for miles!
The adjacent convent is now a museum and exhibit space. Although the convent was destroyed by an earthquake in the early 19th century, it was rebuilt. Its spacious courtyards and many rooms house temp and revolving exhibits from indigenous textiles to profiles of local artists to ceremonial masks.
La Fuente Colonial (the Colonial Fountain), also called La Pila, is said to be the most beautiful Mudejar-style (Hispano-Moorish) fountain in the world today. Completed in 1562, this magnificent brick fountain towers over the main plaza. It is made of orange bricks and many of them were custom shaped for a specific effect. The eight sides are roofed by a huge round dome. From the top it has brick extensions flowing downward in widening circles, creating a stunning pattern. The diamond-shaped bricks around the fountain’s base create constantly changing shadows in the sunlight.
Don’t miss the Museum of the Shellac, which is full of rare handicrafts. You’ll want to stop in to see the Del Calvario Temple with its fantastic polychrome wood altarpiece. There are plenty of shops here where you can get souvenirs as well as beautiful crafted weavings, jewelry or other products of local craftsmen.
If you have time you might want to check out nearby La Angostura Dam, the largest one in the world and a great place to swim, fish or water ski. If you would like to catch a great festival, visit in January during the Feast of St. Sebastian.
Recent Reviews