It s also the jalapeno pepper capital of Mexico. It s built on the slopes of a large tiered hill half way between the ocean and the mountains. Population is around 400,000. It s the state capital, a well-known university town and the business center for the region s coffee and fruit growers. For anyone who chooses to live there, the shopping is excellent.
Fresh produce is brought in from all around the area and the markets are simply wonderful.
The museum is dedicated to the archaeology of Vera Cruz State. The building and the parklike setting were, to me, as attractive as the museum itself. It s built on a slope and is open and light and airy, regardless of where you are in the building. As you follow the gentle slope you can visit various courtyards and galleries to inspect the exhibits of pottery, statues and murals. Some of the exhibits are even outside in the park surrounding the building.