Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Center Gets Heritage Status

Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Center is now a protected Cultural Heritage district of the Mexican State of Jalisco.

The declaration was made by the state’s Department of Culture on July 21 via the official journal of Jalisco and makes the centre of the city a protected area, with all the rights and privileges of a heritage protected by state and federal laws.

The recognition includes the area from the beginning of the Malecon – where the oldest hotel in Puerto Vallarta, the hotel Rosita, stands – and continues to the cobblestoned Romantic Zone and up to the historic Conchas Chinas neighbourhoods. Each area is of special historical significance to Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco and Mexico, as well as the essence of the port city, which is in the midst of celebrating its centennial.

According to officials, the proclamation is a step to further preserve the architectural elements of patrimonial value and image and essential characteristics of the typical town on the seashore, one of the unique qualities of Puerto Vallarta, known as the “most Mexican” beach destination.

“Puerto Vallarta’s historic centre is the heart of our city and a major attraction to our visitors and, like all world heritage sites, it must be recognized as an irreplaceable part of our legacy,” said Javier Aranda Pedrero, director of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board. “We applaud the actions taken by Jalisco’s Department of Culture and welcome everyone to enjoy this iconic part of the city.”