One of the largest cities in Tamaulipas, Matamoros lies along the Rio Grande as it marks the border between Mexico and the United States. It hosted several battles during the Mexican War of Independence and the Mexican Revolution and is now a major industrial city. In addition to its abundance of maquiladora factories, Matamoros is home to several automotive manufacturers.
Things to do in Matamoros
In the heart of Matamoros is the Catedral de Nuestra Señora del Refugio, a twin-towered cathedral that dates back to the early 19th century. Admire its Neoclassical-style facade and Tuscan columns before stepping inside the high-ceilinged interior. Nearby is the Teatro de la Reforma, a beautiful theatre that was constructed in 1861. Once famed as an opera house, it now hosts a variety of live music performances.
Don’t miss the Fort Casamata Museum, which occupies a former bastion of Matamoros’ 19th-century defensive system. It boasts an impressive collection of military objects from the Spanish colonial era and the Mexican War of Independence, including an iron casket where General Canales once rested. Prehispanic figurines and artefacts are also on display.
Artwork from the late 20th century to the present day is exhibited at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Tamaulipas, which occupies an artisan centre built in 1968. It hosts changing exhibitions by leading and emerging Mexican artists, as well as dance performances, stage shows and book presentations. In addition to the museum’s open-air theatre, there’s an artist’s workshop and a well-stocked bookstore.
Getting around Matamoros
Aeropuerto Internacional General Servando Canales is around 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Matamoros and has flights to destinations across Mexico. Long-distance buses connect to Matamoros while local services travel throughout the city, connecting most of its attractions.