Calzada de las Personas Ilustres

Imagine a shaded boulevard imbued with an atmosphere of tranquility and respect for the past. The Avenue of Illustrious Persons (known to locals as Calzada de las Personas Ilustres) is a landmark pedestrian space in the city center of Tuxtla Gutiérrez. It serves as an important cultural landmark, reflecting the rich tapestry of history preserved in Mexico.

Located in the picturesque San Jorge neighborhood, this avenue is an open-air museum. Here, urban bustle gives way to thoughtful walks among busts and monuments dedicated to figures who left their mark on the culture and science of the state of Chiapas.

This place is perfect for those who want to experience the region's authentic heritage, shaped by centuries-old traditions of the Zoque and Aztec peoples, as well as its colonial past. With a 4.5 rating based on hundreds of reviews, the avenue remains a favorite spot for both tourists and locals seeking peace in the dynamic metropolis.

For those planning a route through the historical city center, below is the information regarding the exact location of this public space.

The main charm of the avenue lies in the opportunity to take a leisurely walk away from noisy traffic. Visitors can slowly explore the monuments dedicated to the state's great figures, turning a simple promenade into an educational journey through the history of Tuxtla Gutiérrez.

This spot is a true paradise for urban photography enthusiasts. The rhythm of the avenue, the play of light and shadow through the foliage, and the district's characteristic architecture make for excellent shots. In the evening, the atmosphere becomes especially cozy as local families come out for a walk, creating the unique flavor of daily life in a Mexican city.

Many travelers use the avenue as a quiet alternative to the popular Marimba Park. Here, you can simply sit on a bench with a book or a coffee, observing the pace of life in the capital of Chiapas. It is also recommended to include the avenue in a weekend itinerary, combining it with visits to nearby cultural centers and playgrounds.

Located in the heart of the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez, this pedestrian zone is situated in the San Jorge district. You can reach it on foot from iconic landmarks such as St. Mark's Cathedral, making it easy to include a visit to the avenue in a sightseeing tour of the center.

If you are arriving from outlying districts or from the Ángel Albino Corzo (TGZ) airport, a taxi ride will take about 25–30 minutes. The city also has an extensive network of colectivos (shared taxis) and local buses that make stops in the immediate vicinity of the San Jorge neighborhood.

For travelers with a rental car, Google Maps navigation will be a great help. Since the city is located at an altitude of over 500 meters above sea level and has a hilly terrain, a car or taxi ride may be more comfortable than walking uphill during the hottest part of the day.

The history of the site where the modern avenue stretches is inextricably linked to the ancient roots of the region. Even in the pre-Hispanic era, the Zoque people founded a settlement here called Coyatoc, which translated to "place of many rabbits." Later, in the 15th century, the Aztecs renamed it Tochtlán, which kept the same meaning but in the Nahuatl language.

With the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, the city acquired the name Tuxtla. A significant stage was the 19th century: in 1848, the name Gutiérrez was added to the city's title in honor of the prominent local politician Joaquín Miguel Gutiérrez. During this period, the city began to transform actively, becoming an important political and cultural hub.

The district gained special significance in 1892 when the status of the state capital of Chiapas was finally moved to Tuxtla. This decision provided a powerful impetus for infrastructure development and the creation of public spaces intended to immortalize the memory of people who contributed to the state's development.

Today, the Avenue of Illustrious Persons serves as a living reminder of Mexico's multifaceted heritage, where indigenous traditions intertwine with Spanish colonial influence and the modern history of the metropolis.

A leisurely stroll along the entire length of the site usually takes about 30–60 minutes. This is enough time to see the commemorative markers, take some photos, and simply relax in the shade of the trees.

If you plan to combine your visit to the avenue with other nearby cultural sites in the city center, you should set aside 1–2 hours. The evening is particularly conducive to a longer stay, as the heat subsides and the city lights come on.

The Avenue of Illustrious Persons is a public space and is accessible 24/7, 7 days a week. You can come here early in the morning or late in the evening to enjoy the night illumination.

While access to the area is always open, it is recommended to check official city tourism portals for the latest information on potential cultural events or temporary exhibitions on the avenue.

The area surrounding the avenue is rich in interesting locations, allowing for a full day's itinerary. Exploring the neighborhood will help you dive deeper into the atmosphere of modern-day Chiapas.

Nearby, you can find both family-friendly amusement parks and specialized aquariums that showcase the region's biodiversity.