Description of the attraction
Popocatepetl is an active volcano in Mexico. Its name comes from two words in the Nahuatl language: popoka - "smoking" and tepetl - "hill", that is, smoking hill. It is the second highest peak in Mexico after Mount Orizaba (5675 m.).
Popocatepetl is located next to the extinct volcano Istaxihuatl. The names of these two mountains are the names of the heroes of the legend of Popocatepetl and Istaxihuatl. The legend tells of two lovers who were turned into mountains by the gods. When the youth Popocatepetl fought in the war, evil tongues told his beloved Istaxihuatl that he was dead. Then the young bride married another. But upon learning that the groom returned from the war unharmed, she committed suicide, followed by the returning warrior.
The Aztecs worshiped these mountains, believing that they bestow rain, from year to year bringing them their gifts.
Several large cities are concentrated around the volcano: the capitals of the states of Puebla (on the eastern side of the volcano), Tlaxcal from the northeast and in the northwest - the city of Mexico City with a total population of more than 20 million people. Closest to the volcano is the small town of Cholula.
For all the time the Spaniards lived on the continent, El Popo, as the locals call it, made itself felt sixteen times, but researchers say that in its entire life it has erupted more than 30 times. The last activity was recorded on May 15, 2013. Some areas of Puebla were literally covered with volcanic ash, and the local airport was suspended. In the event of an imminent eruption, 11 thousand people are subject to evacuation.
Despite its dangerous life activity, El Popo beckons tourists with its majesty, unearthly landscape and mesmerizing legend.
