TAXCO 

While Mexico offers a number of interesting places, Taxco is probably one of the most, unique in that its history is a blend of fact and fiction.  Situated in the hills between Acapulco and the southwest region of Mexico City, this state is one of the oldest mining locations in the Americas.  With colonial ambience that consists of cobblestone, winding streets, red-tiled roofs, and stunning 240-year-old cathedrals, Taxco is charming and beautiful to visit. 

Prior to the Spanish coming to this area, Taxco was called Tlacho by the Indians.  The name Tlacho means “place of the ballgame.  According to what history tells us, this local where the Aztec Indians required locals to pay tribute using gold bars.  Then in 1521, Hernan Cortes and the Spanish armies took over control of the Aztecs.  Then in 1522, Cortex staked his claim to the mining of Taxco.  However, by the end of the 16^th century, word about silver had spread throughout Europe, making Taxco famous for its riches. 

In fact, Taxco soon became the main source of precious metals for Spain, which led it to becoming an active mining region.  Over time, mining slowed down as other areas around Taxco became more accessible.  Within 200 years, the mining in Taxco stopped completely.  In the early part of the 18^th century, Don Jose de la Borda again discovered silver in Taxco.  Striking fortune, he built a number of infrastructures to include schools, houses, and even roads.  In fact, the amazing Santa Prisca Cathedral, which is highly ornate with gold trim in a Baroque style, was one of his creations where he served as a priest. 

Today, this very cathedral is seen all across the area, as it literally glitters in the bright sunlight.  With Don Jose being considered the father of Taxco, he finally left the area, leaving mines behind not being worked.  After he left, more than 12 churches were constructed, all beautiful.  In the 19^th century, the mines were destroyed during the War for Independence rather than let revolutionaries take control.

Then in the 1920s, a road was built going from Mexico City to Taxco.  Then a United States citizen and associate architecture professor by the name of William Spratling moved to the area, welcoming influential circles.  By 1931, Ambassador Dwight Morrow from the United States made a comment to Spratling that silver mines were dominant in Taxco for centuries.  This comment changed the course of both artistic and economic history. 

Finding the local people to be highly talented and eager to work and learn, artists in the community surfaced where the craft of silversmith became big business.  With Spratling’s designs, an apprentice program was created for young artists so they could hone their silversmith skills.  To teach the art of working with precious metals, he brought in a highly trained and reputable goldsmith.  The result was incredible silver and gold art specific to the Taxco region.