A Brief Introduction into the History of Mazatlan

Mazatlan offers a unique and intriguing opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage that sets Mexico apart from many Latin countries in the rest of the world. Unlike many resort areas in Mexico, Mazatlan was one of the first areas to recognize the potential of the tourist trade and American visitors began to arrive in the area as early as the 1930s.

The area that is so popular with tourists today was originally inhabited by the Totorames Indians. Petroglyphs, discovered on the offshore islands of the area, lead scientists to believe that the Totorames may have inhabited the area as long ago as 10,000 years.

In 1531, the area was invaded by the Spanish in order to lay claim to the massive amounts of gold in the area. Before long both English as well as French pirates began to make their way into the area and were soon robbing the Spanish galleons of the wealth the Spanish had taken from the local area. After awhile the colonial government constructed a presidio on the harbor as well as watchtowers. By 1800 the pirates had disappeared. To this day; however, rumors of legendary treasure buried in the sea still exist.

The Germans became the first to actually develop the port in the area and by the mid-19th century the gold rush had been firmly established and international business was flourishing in the port. Between 1859 and 1873, Mazatlan was the capital of the state of Sinaloa. During this 14 year period, the city continued to prosper significantly.

Despite this; however, Mazatlan has experienced its times of troubles ranging from plagues of yellow fever to cholera. Over the years there have also been several occupations by the British, French and Americans; most of which occurred in the late 19th century. Following these occupations, the area was stricken with revolution. After the revolution finally ended in 1917, Mazatlan experienced a ten year stint of prosperity; however, this came to an end when the economic depression that stretched around the globe finally reached Mazatlan.

During the 1940s Mazatlan once again gained recognition as stars of such caliber as Gary Cooper and John Wayne recognized the beauty of the area as well as the appeal of sportfishing in Mazatlan. Soon others followed in their wake and by the 1950s hotels along Olas Altas began to flourish. By the 1960s much of the popular tourist area that we know as Mazatlan today was firmly established.

Tourism in the old part of Mazatlan began to die away by the 1970s as newer and more modern venues opened along the northern section of the city. Today, Centro Historico has once again been rediscovered and locals as well as visitors have developed a new appreciation for the district. Many of the buildings and homes that had once fallen into disrepair have once again been restored to their former glory. A number of reputable shops and vendors are now located in this district.