Travel guideHistorySightsNightlifeMap

Cuernavaca History, Mexico

The history of Cuernavaca dates back before Christ. The oldest of the historical sites in the city of Cuernavaca is Chalcatzingo which is located somewhere in the southern section of Cuernavaca. Many ruins if this civilization have been discovered somewhere during 1000 B.C. It was between the year 750 A.D. and 900 A.D. when the Xochicalco civilization was at its peak in the city of Cuernavaca. The word Xochicalco actually means a storehouse flower. It was the Xochicalco civilization which actually gave birth to trade in the city of Cuernavaca. The even built a bridge to connect other surrounding lands with Cuernavaca.

The presence of Tlahuicas and Atecs in and around the city of Cuernavaca is the major reason which is responsible behind many pyramids in today’s downtown area of Cuernavaca which was then famous by the name of Teopanzalco.

The presence of Aztec civilization in the city of Cuernavaca lasted till the Spanish entered the city. The Spanish army was lead by Hernan Cortez who conquered the land and also made friendship with local tribes like Tlaxcalan tribes. Cortez moved towards Mexico City after conquering this land and did took control of the rest of Mexico City very soon. He returned to the city of Cuernavaca in order to create his own palace after his success. It was the year 1529 when Cortez was given the Spanish Crown as a gift for his huge success in the country of Mexico.

The Spanish Army ruled these regions for many years to come. It was the year 1821 when the Spanish Army was finally forced out of Mexico. French Army entered this region and did control the region from year 1864 to the year 1867. It was the year 1867 when Benito Juarez once again got control of Cuernavaca and the French Army went back.

It was in 1869 when Juarez formed the independent state of Morelos. This name was given after the heroes that took part in the war of independence. The city of Cuernavaca was made as the capital of this newly formed state and the districts of this state were Tetecala, Jonacatepec, and Yautepec. This history of Cuernavaca has been very rich in past years and a visit to the city will surely be a memorable one for you.