The Mexican city of Veracruz, located on the Gulf of Mexico and founded by Hernán Cortés, was once used as a port for the treasure ships carrying the local riches to Spain.
MORE
Today it is a popular tourist destination and has good scuba diving opportunities, especially along the Veracruz Coral Reef System. The city has an impressive 16th century fortress, San Juan de Ulúa, which today houses a museum. The city is also famous for its music scene and for its exuberant carnival, which has a Caribbean flair.
CLOSE
