Cosoleacaque: History and Textile Tradition

Cosoleacaque combines a long history of settlement with a vibrant textile tradition and religious celebrations held on specific dates. The archaeological site of El Cubilete, the town’s founding by Nahua people and the memory of a battle in 1863 offer different ways to explore the town’s history. There is also the craft of backstrap weaving, which families have preserved for generations.

Early Settlement and Local History

El Cubilete is an archaeological site in the municipal seat of Cosoleacaque. It contains evidence of human settlement dating back to the Early Preclassic period, between 1500 and 1200 BC. This means that the history of human life in the area goes back long before the later founding of Cosoleacaque.

Cosoleacaque was founded during the archaeological Postclassic period, between AD 900 and 1100, before the Spanish conquest, by Nahua people who had migrated from the central highlands. The original settlement was on the right bank of the Río Tonalá. Its timeline and original settlement area complement one another.

Another point of reference is 18 October 1863. A battle against French troops was fought at the entrance to the town, in a ravine formed by the course of the Arroyo Totoapan. On 18 October, Cosoleacaque commemorates the Mexican victory over French troops at the Arroyo Totoapan in 1863. Alongside its much older settlement history, the memory of this event is part of Cosoleacaque’s historical identity.

Textile Art and Passing on the Craft

Families in Cosoleacaque keep textile art alive and preserve the tradition of backstrap weaving. A leading figure in this craft was Tía Cayita from Cosoleacaque, who passed on backstrap weaving to several generations of women weavers. The tradition also tells of knowledge being passed down through generations and of the role of women weavers in this craft. For travellers interested in local culture, textile art offers a distinct way to experience the town, alongside archaeology and history.

Celebrations on Different Dates

The Fiesta de la Santa Cruz in Cosoleacaque takes place on 3 May. It includes Masses, mañanitas, dances in the church atrium and fireworks. This is separate from the celebration of the Santa Cruz del Señor, which is associated with 1 July. This celebration also includes Masses, dances in the church atrium and fireworks; bicycle races are organised as well. The two dates and festival names provide clear guidance when learning about the town’s religious celebrations.

During the Santa Cruz celebration, both mestizo and Indigenous households set up altars dedicated to the Santa Cruz. Good Friday is also among the religious celebrations in Cosoleacaque. Together, these customs show different ways of celebrating, from household altars to a re-enactment of the Stations of the Cross through the streets.

Choosing Cosoleacaque as a Travel Destination

When planning your trip, the key question is whether you would like to time your stay to coincide with one of the festival dates mentioned above.

More Local Pages

More local pages: Tamiahua, Puente Jula, Boca Del Río, Perote, La Florida, Barra De Nautla, Estanzuela, Minatitlán.

For the overarching travel overview: Veracruz.