Taxco: Mexico’s Silver City of Colonial Elegance

Taxco is a picturesque town in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, renowned for its rich silver-mining history and colonial charm. Nestled in the rugged Sierra Madre mountains, the town’s steep, narrow streets are lined with whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and vibrant bougainvillea. Its name comes from the Nahuatl word Tlachco, meaning “place of the ballgame,” referencing its pre-Hispanic roots.

In the 16th century, Taxco became one of the most important silver mining centers in New Spain. Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés contributed to the early development of the mines. By the 18th century, silver production flourished under José de la Borda, a prominent miner who funded the construction of the town’s iconic Santa Prisca Church. Built between 1751 and 1758, this Baroque masterpiece stands as a symbol of Taxco’s mining heritage and artistic grandeur.

Taxco is famed for its silver craftsmanship, with numerous workshops and markets offering intricate jewelry and decorative pieces. The annual Feria Nacional de la Plata (National Silver Fair) celebrates this artisanal tradition. Another significant event is the solemn Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions, known for their deeply rooted religious customs and somber atmosphere.

Today, Taxco’s blend of colonial architecture, artisanal silverwork, and mountain scenery attracts visitors seeking history, culture, and craftsmanship.