Tlaxcala

Tlaxcala is a small, landlocked state in central Mexico, located in the Mexican highlands and characterized by mountainous terrain and fertile valleys. The state capital, Tlaxcala City, is officially known as Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl and preserves a colonial urban center with historic churches and public buildings. The state is divided into 60 municipalities and has a mix of urban and rural communities.

Historically, the Tlaxcaltecs were a confederation of Nahua-speaking groups that resisted Aztec hegemony before the Spanish conquest. In 1519–1521, Tlaxcala allied with Hernán Cortés and provided troops and logistical support that aided in the fall of the Aztec capital. After conquest, Tlaxcala became a royal province within New Spain, retaining a distinct cultural identity that persists in regional traditions and craftwork.

Geographically, Tlaxcala offers highland valleys and volcanic scenery. La Malinche (Malinche volcano) lies on the border with Puebla and is a notable geographic feature. The climate is generally temperate due to elevation. The economy combines agriculture, small-scale manufacturing, and services. Agriculture remains important in valley areas, with crops such as maize and vegetables; livestock farming is common, and industries include textiles and food processing. Tourism centers on historic towns, colonial architecture, and archaeological sites.

Demographically, the population is predominantly Catholic, with Spanish as the main language and pockets of Nahuatl speakers in some communities. The state hosts several institutions of higher education, including the Autonomous University of Tlaxcala, contributing to local education and research.

Culturally, Tlaxcala preserves a legacy of crafts, such as textiles and ceramics, and hosts fairs and religious observances that reflect its colonial and indigenous heritage. Notable archaeological sites include Cacaxtla, which contains preserved murals from the region’s pre-Columbian past.