Bacanora, Sonora facts for kids
Bacanora is a small town in the Mexican state of Sonora. It is located in the eastern part of Sonora. This town is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and its history.
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How Big is Bacanora?
The area around Bacanora, including the town and nearby rural lands, covers about 903 square kilometers. That's a pretty big area! In 2005, about 943 people lived in the whole area. Around 568 of those people lived right in the town itself.
History of Bacanora
Who Lived Here First?
Long ago, the land where Bacanora is now was home to the Opata Joba Indians. They were the first people to live in this region.
When Was Bacanora Founded?
In 1627, a Jesuit missionary named Pedro Méndez started a mission here. He called it Mission San Ignacio Bacanora.
What Does "Bacanora" Mean?
The name "Bacanora" comes from the Opata language. The word "baca" means "reed," and "nora" means "slope of reeds." So, Bacanora means "slope of reeds." Bacanora officially became a municipality, or a local government area, in 1932.
Bacanora's Geography
Mountains and Rivers
Most of the Bacanora region is in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains. The Bacanora River flows through the area from south to north. It then joins the Yaqui River, which crosses the northern part of the municipality. The town of Bacanora is located high up, about 1,030 meters above sea level.
Animals of the Region
The area around Bacanora is home to many different animals. You might find deer, pumas, owls, coyotes, jaguars, lynx, raccoons, skunks, and eagles living here. It's a great place for wildlife!
Population Changes
Over the years, some people have moved away from Bacanora. Many have gone to the United States. Since 1995, the number of people living here has gone down by about 3.39%.
Bacanora's Economy
Cattle and Crops
The main way people make a living in Bacanora is by raising cattle. In 2000, there were about 17,000 cattle in the area. Farmers also grow some corn, beans, and sorghum, but this is a smaller part of the economy.
A Special Drink
A plant called agave is grown here to make a famous local drink. This drink is known as Aguardiente de Bacanora.
Getting Around Bacanora
Roads and Travel
There is a paved road that connects Bacanora to Hermosillo, the capital city of Sonora. Hermosillo is about 181 kilometers away.
Things to See in Bacanora
San Ignacio de Loyola Church
If you visit Bacanora, a main attraction is the mission church of San Ignacio de Loyola. This beautiful church was built a long time ago, in the 1600s.
See also
In Spanish: Bacanora (Sonora) para niños
