Nuevo León

Nuevo Leon is an industrial powerhouse in northeastern Mexico, anchored by Monterrey, the country's third-largest city and a leading business and manufacturing center. Its capital is Monterrey. Backed by dramatic mountains and close to the US border, it is among Mexico's wealthiest and most modern states.

Nuevo Leon is dominated by the rugged Sierra Madre Oriental, with Monterrey nestled among peaks such as the distinctive Cerro de la Silla, giving way to semi-arid plains. It has a short border with Texas. The climate is semi-arid with hot summers.

The state has a confident, entrepreneurial northern culture, known for cabrito (roast kid goat), norteno music, and a strong work ethic. Monterrey is a hub of higher education, technology and corporate headquarters.

Settled in the late 16th century, partly by crypto-Jewish families fleeing the Inquisition, Nuevo Leon grew as a frontier and trade region. Industrialisation in Monterrey from the 19th century made it an economic leader of Mexico.