Ometepec

Ometepec lies in the Costa Chica, between the southern Mexican mountains and the Pacific. The surrounding region was part of Ayacaxtla, a province whose historic centre was at Igualapa. Mixtec, Amuzgo and Nahua communities inhabited this varied country of hills and coastal plains. The expansion of Mexica power brought much of the region into its tribute network before the arrival of the Spaniards.

Spanish forces reached the coast in 1522, ending Mexica rule over Ayacaxtla. Under colonial administration Ometepec became a religious centre within the province of Puebla. Estates expanded over Indigenous lands, while people of African descent, including formerly enslaved workers and fugitives, became part of the population of the coastal plains. These communities gave the Costa Chica a diverse heritage that endured through the struggle for independence.