City history
Exploring the historical evolution of Mazatlan, from its roots as an indigenous settlement to its role as a major Mexican Pacific port.
Chapter one
Indigenous name
"Place of deer"
The name is widely attributed to the Nahuatl word for deer, suggesting the area was historically populated by these animals.
Place of deer
The name has remained consistent through the transition from a colonial-era port to a modern city.
Chapter two
The Mexican government officially ended the observance of daylight saving time in Sinaloa, resulting in year-round standard time.
Chapter three
During the mid-19th century, Mazatlan emerged as one of the most important commercial ports on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
The integration of railway lines in the early 20th century enhanced the city's ability to transport goods from the interior to the coast.
Following national legislative changes in 2022, Mazatlan transitioned to permanent standard time, ending seasonal daylight saving shifts.