This Thursday, January 16, marks the 73rd Anniversary of the creation of the State of Baja California. In this article, we explore the features that make this land of opportunity, gastronomy, and natural wonders unique.
History of the Founding of Baja California
Baja California officially became a state on January 16, 1952, when the reforms to articles 43 and 45 were published in the Official Journal of the Federation. Located in the extreme northwest of Mexico, this privileged entity is mostly surrounded by water: to the east, by the Gulf of California, and to the west, by the vast Pacific Ocean.
It owes its name to a mix of history and legend. It is believed that the Spanish conquistadors took it from “Las sergas de Esplandián,” a novel of chivalry written by Garci Rodríguez de Montalvo in 1510, which mentioned a mythical island called California. Another theory suggests that the name comes from the Catalan-Moroccan words “calor” and “forn,” used by Fray Junípero Serra to describe the intense heat of the region, saying “it is hotter here than in an oven.”
Over the years, this territory has experienced several changes in its division and naming. With the Constitution of 1824, the provinces of Alta California and Baja California were established, both with the status of federal territories. However, in 1835, during the centralist period, the territory was divided into three parts: north, center and south. Finally, in 1887, it was reorganized into two political districts that would give rise to the entities we know today: Baja California Norte and Baja California Sur.
It was in those years of transition that local leaders began to be appointed in the region. These figures played a key role in the administration and development of the territory, marking an important step towards its political and social consolidation. Its history reflects the evolution and adaptation of Baja California as a significant region in Mexico.
Baja California: a state with wonders to offer
Among the great distinctive features of Baja California is its diversity that covers various areas:
Culture
Geography
Binational economy
Tourism
Gastronomy
Baja California’s diversity is reflected in the richness of its seven municipalities, where history, culture and nature converge.
Each one contributes unique elements that, together, form the identity of the state, standing out as a region that combines tradition and modernity. This variety is not only a sign of its territorial greatness, but also of the ability of its people to adapt and develop in different environments.
Tijuana
Known as “the most visited border in the world”, it has a cultural wealth that unites the border population in each of its streets, its gastronomy, public spaces and more.
Tijuana has the first binational bridge in the world: CBX. This connects the International Airport with a terminal belonging to San Diego, California, simplifying international travel.
With gastronomic hallmarks such as the iconic Caesar salad, its delicious grilled tacos and renowned craft beer houses, Tijuana is one of the main gastronomic capitals of Mexico.
Mexicali
This municipality, in the middle of the desert, is the capital of Baja California. It has various tourist attractions such as the Magical Neighborhood of La Chinesca, the Fiestas del Sol, Los Algodones, the Sol del Niño Museum, the Bosque, the City Zoo, among many others.
Its dunes are perfect for sandboarding or racers and its Chinese food restaurants are legendary.
Ensenada
It is the leading port in the Mexican Pacific. It has countless attractions such as whale sightings in the open sea, as well as natural passages full of beauty such as the “Picacho del Diablo” (the highest mountain on the peninsula) and La Bufadora.
Rosarito Beaches
This Baja Californian coast is known for being the lobster capital and a paradise for young adventurers who want to try their hand at surfing or diving. It is also the perfect destination for families who want to share a day full of fun, crafts and delicious food.
Among the must-try gastronomic stops are La Casa de la Langosta, Carnitas Los Panchos, Tacos El Yaqui and Mariscos La Estrella.
Tecate
This Magical Town offers the beginning of the famous Wine Route. It is home to Tecate beer and some of the oldest wineries in the state.
Visitors cannot miss the opportunity to go to La Rumorosa, home of the bighorn sheep. Its mountainous landscapes in winter seem straight out of a fairy tale; and its famous “Tecate bread” is a must-try.
San Quintín
It is an ideal municipality for sport fishing and stands out as a leader in the cultivation of organic berries. Its nature invites you to explore places like La Lobera.
In addition, it is famous for its production of oysters and abalone. With more than 100 tons per year, the oyster farms and cultivation plants are a must-see for gastronomy.
San Felipe
San Felipe is a unique destination where low tides and warm waters contrast with the imposing sand hills. This place is ideal for enjoying the sun and the beach, offering activities such as banana and sombrero rides.
Its gastronomy stands out for the freshness of its seafood and events such as the Shrimp and Clam Festival, which attract hundreds of visitors. In addition, the ecological reserve “Valle de Los Gigantes” and the historic Consag Island add an unmissable cultural and natural touch.
What’s coming to Baja California in 2025?
This year marks significant growth for Baja California, under the leadership of Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, who has developed, together with the Secretary of Tourism, Miguel Aguíñiga Rodríguez, an agenda of unique events that promote tourism and strengthen its cultural identity. These activities not only highlight the dynamism of the region, but also reflect the commitment to the economic and social development of the state.
In addition, programs and works will be strengthened to benefit citizens and residents, focused on improving the quality of life. This progress consolidates Baja California as a place of opportunities, where tradition, innovation and a promising future are combined.
Among the most relevant events is the honor of Baja California being the host of the 49th edition of the Tianguis Turístico 2025. A promotional and business platform for Mexico that seeks to increase national and international tourism, highlighting the variety of destinations and experiences that the country offers to the world.
Likewise, the Caribbean Series will be held in Mexicali, in its 2025 edition, from January 31 to February 7. This annual tournament that brings together the winter baseball teams of Latin America, will feature the participation of Venezuela, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Japan.
For these reasons, Baja California proudly celebrates its 73rd anniversary, with the promise of many more years full of prosperity, solidarity, mutual support and unity in the community.
Source: es-us.noticias.yahoo
