Tlaxcala

Tlaxcala is the smallest state in Mexico, in the central highlands east of Mexico City, with an outsized place in history. Its capital is also called Tlaxcala. Famed as the ally whose support helped the Spanish conquer the Aztec Empire, it is rich in colonial and pre-Hispanic heritage.

Tlaxcala is a compact highland state of fertile valleys and volcanic mountains, overlooked by the great volcano La Malinche. It sits at high elevation on the central plateau. The climate is temperate, cool and dry.

The state preserves strong traditions, including the colourful pre-Lenten Carnival with its costumed huehues dancers, fine textiles, and the production of pulque, a traditional fermented agave drink. Its history is a point of local pride.

The Tlaxcalans were a fiercely independent people who allied with Hernan Cortes against the Aztecs, a decisive factor in the Spanish conquest. The nearby site of Cacaxtla preserves vivid pre-Hispanic murals. Tlaxcala became a state in 1857.