50 Facts About Pachuca

Name and Origin

Pachuca de Soto, often simply called Pachuca, is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Let's explore some intriguing facts about this fascinating place.

1. Pachuca de Soto is named in honor of congressman Manuel Fernando Soto, who played a key role in founding the state of Hidalgo.
2. In the indigenous Otomi language, Pachuca is known as Nju̱nthe or La Bella Airosa, which means the airy, beautiful.

Location and Climate

Nestled in the south-central part of Hidalgo, Pachuca boasts a unique climate and geographical features.

3. Pachuca is located about 90 kilometers (56 miles) north of Mexico City, making it easily accessible via Mexican Federal Highway 85.
4. The city enjoys a semi-arid climate, characterized by cool temperatures, high rainfall, and occasional hail during summer.
5. Situated at an elevation of 2381.8 meters (7814.3 feet) above sea level, Pachuca experiences a temperate highland tropical climate with dry winters.
6. January is the coldest month, with average highs of 20 °C (68 °F) and lows of 3 °C (37 °F).
7. May is the warmest month, with average highs of 24 °C (75 °F) and lows of 9 °C (48 °F).
8. The city receives an average annual precipitation of 412 millimeters (16.2 inches), mostly from May through September.
9. The record high temperature in Pachuca was 34.5 °C (94 °F), while the record low was −9 °C (16 °F).

Early History and Indigenous Influence

Pachuca's history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of early human habitation and significant indigenous influence.

10. Archaeological sites in the area show evidence of early human habitation dating back to around 12,000 BCE, including arrowheads, scraping tools, and Mammoth remains.
11. The region was originally inhabited by various indigenous civilizations, predominantly the Aztecs, who ruled the area from 1438.
12. The Aztecs founded the town of Patlachihuacán and engaged in metal extraction from the surrounding mountains.

Spanish Conquest and Colonial Era

The arrival of the Spanish brought significant changes to Pachuca, including the establishment of colonial structures and mining operations.

13. During the Conquest period, Francisco Téllez and Gonzalo Rodríguez arrived in the area and ordered the construction of the first houses on the hills of San Cristóbal and Santa Gertrudis.
14. In 1725, the Juanic friars built what is now the central building of the Autonomous University of the State of Hidalgo.
15. Mining operations in Pachuca began in the mid-16th century during Spanish colonial rule, with the area known for its rich mineral deposits, particularly silver and gold.
16. The Purísima Concepción Hacienda, now a tennis club, was where Bartolomé de Medina found the largest mineral deposits and developed new ways of extracting minerals from ore using the patio process.

Population Growth and Economic Development

Pachuca's population and economy have seen significant growth and development over the centuries.

17. The population of the town continued to grow, leading Pachuca to be declared a city in 1813.
18. Mining output had waned by the 18th century due to flooding but was revived in 1741 by the first Count of Regla, Pedro Romero de Terreros, and his business partner Jose Alejandro Bustamante.
19. The third Count of Regla brought the first Cornish miners and technology around 1824, significantly impacting the local mining industry.
20. Cornish companies dominated mining in Pachuca until 1848, when the Mexican–American War forced them to sell out to a Mexican company.
21. Mining operations resumed in 1850, especially in the Rosario mine, marking a resurgence in the mining sector.

Historical Significance and Modern Era

Pachuca has played a significant role in Mexico's history and continues to evolve as a modern city.

22. Pachuca played a significant role during the Mexican War of Independence, with the city taken by Miguel Serrano and Vicente Beristain de Souza in 1812.
23. The war left the Pachuca area in a state of chaos, both politically and economically, but the city's economy eventually recovered and continued to grow.
24. From 1920 to 1940, there was stagnation and even a decline in the mining sector, but from 1940 to 1965, there was a resurgence, and from 1965 to 1990, significant growth.
25. Pachuca is known as the Birthplace of Mexican Football due to the establishment of the Pachuca Athletic Club, one of the first official teams in the country.

City Layout and Modern Pachuca

The city's layout and modern amenities reflect its rich history and ongoing development.

26. The city occupies a small valley and is almost completely surrounded by large hills, which are also covered in colorful housing. The city center has maintained most of its colonial-era structures, with narrow winding streets.
27. Away from the center is the more modern Pachuca, with warehouses, factories, supermarkets, and a large football stadium called El Huracán (The Hurricane).
28. The local team has won eight national and international titles since El Huracán was built.
29. The city proper has a population (2005) of 267,751, which is 97% of the population of the municipality. The Pachuca zona metropolitana (ZM) includes the municipalities of Pachuca de Soto, Real del Monte, and Mineral de la Reforma, with a combined population of 438,692 inhabitants as of 2005.
30. Due to its proximity to Mexico City, both its population and urban sprawl have been growing. Currently, it can be considered a modern city with a rich history to tell.

Capital Designation and Indigenous Influence

Pachuca's status as the capital of Hidalgo and its indigenous heritage are key aspects of its identity.

31. Pachuca was declared the capital of Hidalgo by Benito Juárez in 1869.
32. The city also bears the name "de Soto" in memory of Deputy Manuel Fernando Soto, as it was thanks to his efforts that the State of Hidalgo was created and established.
33. The area had been long-inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Aztecs and the Chichimecas, who called the area around Pachuca nahunte.
34. Fortifications in the area of Pachuca City and other areas were built between 1174 and 1181 during the Chichimeca rule.
35. The Dominion of Pachuca was eventually overrun by the Aztec Triple Alliance between 1427 and 1430, with rule in Pachuca then coming from the city of Tecohitlan.
36. According to tradition, mineral exploitation began in Pachuca after the Aztec conquest and in the neighboring Real del Monte.

Spanish Conquest and Colonial Buildings

The Spanish conquest and subsequent colonial period left a lasting impact on Pachuca's architecture and infrastructure.

37. The Spanish conquest of Pachuca is credited to Francisco Téllez, an artillery man who came to Mexico with Hernán Cortés in 1519.
38. During the Conquest period, Francisco Téllez and Gonzalo Rodríguez ordered the construction of the first houses on the hills of San Cristóbal and Santa Gertrudis.
39. In 1725, the Juanic friars built what is now the central building of the Autonomous University of the State of Hidalgo.

War of Independence and Cornish Influence

Pachuca's role in the War of Independence and the influence of Cornish settlers shaped its development.

40. At the beginning of the War of Independence, the Spanish abandoned the mines of Pachuca and retreated to the capital of New Spain, and the insurgents took control of the city.
41. In the early 19th century, a good number of settlers from Cornwall, England, established themselves in the cities of Pachuca and Real del Monte. This influence led to the establishment of the Pachuca Athletic Club, one of the first official teams in the country.

Football Legacy and Economic Diversification

Pachuca's football heritage and economic diversification are key aspects of its modern identity.

42. Pachuca's football legacy continues to be celebrated, with El Huracán being a significant landmark in the city's sports history.
43. While mining has historically been a significant sector, Pachuca has diversified its economy over the years. The city now has warehouses, factories, supermarkets, and other modern infrastructure.

Tourism and Cultural Events

Pachuca offers a variety of attractions and cultural events that showcase its rich history and vibrant culture.

44. Pachuca offers a variety of tourism attractions, including its colonial-era structures, modern amenities, and historical sites like the Purísima Concepción Hacienda.
45. The city hosts various cultural events throughout the year, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage. These events include festivals, concerts, and historical reenactments.

Educational Institutions and Healthcare Facilities

Pachuca is home to several educational institutions and well-equipped healthcare facilities.

46. Pachuca is home to several educational institutions, including the Autonomous University of the State of Hidalgo, which was founded in 1725.
47. The city has well-equipped healthcare facilities, providing quality medical services to its residents. These facilities include hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers.

Transportation and Environmental Concerns

Pachuca's transportation network and environmental efforts are crucial for its development.

48. Pachuca is well-connected to other major cities in Mexico via Mexican Federal Highway 85 and other transportation networks. The city also has a local transportation system, including buses and taxis.
49. Despite its natural beauty, Pachuca faces environmental concerns related to mining activities and urban sprawl. Efforts are being made to mitigate these issues and preserve the city's natural resources.

Community Engagement and Future Prospects

Pachuca's community engagement and future prospects highlight its potential for growth and development.

50. The community in Pachuca is actively engaged in various social and cultural activities. Community centers, cultural organizations, and local clubs play a significant role in fostering community spirit and promoting cultural heritage.

Pachuca's Unique Blend of History and Modernity

Pachuca de Soto, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern amenities, stands out as a fascinating destination. From its early indigenous roots to its colonial architecture and mining heritage, the city offers a unique blend of the past and present. The cool climate, colorful hills, and football legacy add to its charm. Whether you're exploring the narrow winding streets of the city center or enjoying the modern facilities, Pachuca has something for everyone. The city's strategic location near Mexico City and its diverse economy make it an attractive spot for both tourists and investors. With a strong sense of community and ongoing efforts to preserve its natural beauty, Pachuca continues to evolve while honoring its rich heritage. It's a place where history meets modernity, offering a unique experience for all who visit.