Monterrey, also known as the “Sultan of the North,” is the capital of one of Mexico’s most successful states, Nuevo León. Thanks to industrial development, this high-tech and constantly changing city has made the northeast of the country one of Mexico’s economic pillars. Monterrey is third in population, behind only Mexico City and Guadalajara, but it leads in per capita income.

The city’s rapid development has significantly impacted its appearance, turning Monterrey into one of the most “Americanized” cities in the country, virtually devoid of typical Mexican character.

However, its impressive natural environment—mountains, canyons, and deserts—combined with rare colonial elements and contemporary art, make Monterrey an attractive tourist destination.

Entertainment and Attractions
The heart of the city is the Gran Plaza, also known as the Macroplaza, a green space built in the 1980s. One of Monterrey’s main landmarks is located here: a fountain with eight bronze figures, the centerpiece of which is Neptune, god of the sea. This sculptural composition is remarkable, considering that Monterrey has no major rivers or sea, only the ephemeral Santa Catarina River and the man-made Santa Lucia Canal, along which you can take a boat tour.

The tallest of the city’s monuments is the “Lighthouse of Commerce,” which rises over 70 meters. The architect Luis Barragán designed the lighthouse to commemorate the first anniversary of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The oldest and most authentically Spanish neighborhood of Monterrey is the Zona Pink. Home to the most expensive hotels and luxury buildings, this area is particularly attractive to tourists.