Geography and Climate of Sonora
Located in northwest Mexico, Sonora is a state that makes up much of the border between the U.S. and Mexico. Sonora is adjacent to Arizona and New Mexico. The state also borders the Gulf of Mexico (also known as the Sea of Cortez) to the west. 
Sonora shares its borders with the Mexican State of Chihuahua to the east, and Sinaloa to the south.
Sonora is the second-largest state (based on landmass) in the country.
It is an area where desert terrain collides with towering mountains and gorgeous beaches.
Sonora's diverse ecosystem is home to numerous species of animals, various landscapes and assorted climates.
The mix of semiarid and subtropical climates makes this place a popular destination for tourism. There is little rainfall in the region throughout the year.
History of Sonora
Eusebio Francisco Kino was a Catholic priest who arrived in Sonora in the late 1680s. He established 20 missions along northwest Mexico and the American Southwest. Unlike many Spanish visitors, Kino was instrumental in protecting local Sonora tribes from forced labor in silver mines. Sonora has two towns named for Father Kino -- Magdalena de Kino and Bahia Kino.
The history of Sonora is largely a tale of local resistance against foreign imposition. The indigenous people of Sonora clashed with Spanish colonialists, from the 16th Century to the 20th Century. Sonora y Sinaloa became a Mexican Republic state after the Constitution of 1824. In 1830, the state divided into two separate regions -- Sonora and Sinaloa.
Demographics of Sonora
Based on the 2000 Mexican Census, Sonora had 55,694 people that spoke indigenous languages. That figure represents less than three percent of the state's total population. Sonora's indigenous tribes include the Guarijios, the Mayos, the Papagos, the Pimas, the Seris, the Cucapa, the Kikapu, the Patas and the Yaquis. Each native tribe has its own distinct culture and history.
Economy of Sonora
The economy of Sonora is largely based on cattle production, mining, fishing, agriculture and tourism. The area's diverse set of landscapes makes the state a prime choice for many tourists. With over 200 festivals held each year, visitors to the state have plenty of opportunities to experience the diverse cultures of the native peoples.
Sonora Law and Government
Sonora has 72 administrative districts, or municipios. A municipal president governs each district. This role is comparable to a local mayor in American government. The scope of the position is much more broad though, as a municipal president is responsible for more than just a city. The surrounding areas of a city often fall under the municipal president's jurisdiction.
Sonora Transportation
In recent years, federal funds have been allocated to fixing many of the roads in Sonora. Roadways that link Navojoa-Álamos, Hermosillo-Bahía de Kino and Yaqui-Mayo have all gotten an influx of capital over the past couple of years.
Drivers who plan to travel through Sonoma by car should apply for a "Sonora Only" vehicle permit. Obtaining the permit requires a valid drivers license and proof of vehicle ownership. Drivers of leased or financed vehicles must provide a letter of authorization from the bank or leasing company in order to drive in Sonora.
Major Cities and Towns of Sonora
Hermosillo is the capital city of Sonora. Located in the west-central portion of the state, Hermosillo rests at the confluence of two rivers -- the Sonora River and the San Miguel River. The city combines classic 19th Century architecture with modern 21st Century amenities. Hermosillo is a center for commerce, golf, sporting events, conventions and lively concerts. The city features numerous museums, parks and two universities.
Puerto Penasco, also known as Rocky Point, is located just 60 miles south of the Arizona border. Puerto Penasco features amazing views of the Sea of Cortez. The area features a bustling resort atmosphere with hotels, villas, condos and upscale accommodations lining the shoreline. What began as a quiet fishing village in 1927 has developed into one of the country's top tourist attractions.
Nogales is a dynamic border city that rests 60 miles south of Arizona. Nogales is home to many missions, industrial manufacturing centers and shopping options. Downtown Nogales features nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, amazing eateries and a bullfighting ring.
Alamos is one of the southernmost cities in Sonora. It began as a silver mining town in the late 17th Century. The city's colonial past is alive and well, making Alamos a time capsule for colonial architecture and influences. The city is a national historical monument, with museums, structures and places of historical interest nestled around every corner.
Sonora Real Estate Communities and Featured Properties
Cimarron Bay Ranch in Sonora, Mexico
|
Del.icio.us
Digg
