Coahuila

Introducing Coahuila

Coahuila is large, mostly desert and sparsely populated. If you spend much time in this state, Mexico’s third largest, you’ll pass a lot of it drifting down the highway, but the desert scenery is often so stunning you won’t be in any hurry to reach your destination.

Border crossings into Coahuila from Texas are used less than those further southeast in Tamaulipas because the road connections are not as convenient for most travelers. Yet the remoteness and the harsh, arid landscape have a raw allure, and the state capital, Saltillo, is definitely worth a visit.

From 1821 to 1836, in the early years of independence, Coahuila and Texas were one state of the new Mexican republic with Monclova and Saltillo each taking a turn as capital. In January 2007 Coahuila became the first state to follow Mexico City’s lead and legalize civil unions for gay couples.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009