Tlaxcala (city)

Tlaxcala, officially Tlaxcala de Xicoténcatl, is the capital city of the state of Tlaxcala in central Mexico. It is located in the Valley of Puebla-Tlaxcala, approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) east of Mexico City.

Historically, Tlaxcala was the capital of the pre-Columbian Tlaxcalan civilization, a powerful and independent polity that allied with the Spanish conquistadors against the Aztec Empire. This alliance significantly shaped the course of the Spanish conquest of Mexico.

Following the conquest, Tlaxcala retained a degree of autonomy and privileges within the Spanish colonial system, a recognition of its crucial role in the defeat of the Aztecs. This status gradually diminished over time.

The city's historical center features well-preserved colonial architecture, reflecting its Spanish heritage. Notable landmarks include the Tlaxcala Cathedral (Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción), the Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno), and the Xicoténcatl Theater (Teatro Xicoténcatl).

Economically, Tlaxcala city is a regional center for commerce and services. Agriculture and light industry also contribute to the local economy. The city also benefits from tourism, drawing visitors interested in its rich history, colonial architecture, and nearby archaeological sites.

The city's culture reflects a blend of indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial influences. Traditional festivals, cuisine, and crafts are important aspects of Tlaxcalan identity.

The population of Tlaxcala city is estimated to be around 90,000 to 100,000 people (depending on the source and definition of the city limits). The city is the seat of the municipal government of the municipality of Tlaxcala.