Veracruz is the first city founded by Cortés upon his arrival in the American mainland.

Ever since, it’s become a major port state where most of import trades come in to be distributed all over the country. We recently embarked on a trip to discover Tlacotalpan a little known corner of the state recently declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Tlacotalpan grew on the shore of the Papaloápan River, one of the biggest and most important rivers in the south of Mexico.

We visited the old market which dates back to the 19th century. All goods that came in from the river were sold at this market and today it’s a great spot to get some fresh produce or have a traditional breakfast.

Fish stores were built along the river bank; they mainly sell shrimp, soft shell crabs and mojarra (a traditional river fish).

A religious procession along the town streets.