Discovering Sonora

Agua Prieta is a border city located in the northeast of the state of Sonora, Mexico, just south of Douglas, Arizona. With a population of approximately 91,000 according to the 2020 census, it is the seventh most populous city in the state.

Founded in 1899, Agua Prieta emerged as a settlement linked to the development of railroads and mining activity in the region. During the Mexican Revolution, the city was the scene of significant events, such as the Battle of Agua Prieta in 1915, where Plutarco Elías Calles’s forces repelled an attack by Pancho Villa. Furthermore, in 1920, the Plan of Agua Prieta was proclaimed, playing a crucial role in national politics by opposing the government of Venustiano Carranza.

Agua Prieta’s economy is based on manufacturing, commerce, and agriculture. The city is home to several maquiladoras that produce everything from electronic components to clothing. Its strategic location on the border facilitates trade and cultural interaction with the United States, especially with the neighboring city of Douglas, Arizona.

Agua Prieta has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Annual rainfall is low, concentrated mainly in July and August. The city is located in a mountainous region, close to the Sierra Madre Occidental, providing attractive natural landscapes and offering landmarks such as Plaza Azueta, inaugurated in 1912. It is the oldest square in the city and has witnessed important historical events; the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a contemporary temple that is part of the local religious heritage; and the “Zaino de Agua Prieta” Horse Monument, a sculpture that pays tribute to the region’s equine history.

The city celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as the Border Cultural Festival in April. The Spring Fair in May, the Fiestas Patrias in September, the parade on November 20th, and the Christmas Festival in December reflect Agua Prieta’s rich cultural heritage and foster community togetherness.