Main Street, now Belisario Domínguez Street
In 1842, this street was called Calle Alegría, but it would later be known as Calle Principal (Main Street) throughout its length, serving as the city's main artery. It retained this name until the time of the Mexican Revolution when, by municipal decree on February 8, 1915, it was renamed Belisario Domínguez. Even on the maps from the 1820s and 1830s, its existence is evident.
The development of commerce began here, likely being one of the first commercial areas where significant and important warehouses were located. More than just a street, it was a road lined with houses that evolved in their architecture.
Although Mazatlán was founded in 1576 and was sparsely populated for 244 years, it was in the early 19th century when the Spanish courts opened the port to foreign trade. At that time, Mazatlán was the provisional capital of the State of Sinaloa, and growth began to be noticeable due to the creation of warehouses, one of them known as "Mercería Alemana" at the corner of Mariano Escobedo, and the French-origin store "Renault." Schools, mansions, and the now-defunct Banco Occidental located at the corner of Constitución also emerged.
During that period, Belisario Domínguez was the most heavily traveled street by people, vehicles, and carts, which is why it was attributed the name "Main Street." Although there is no formal record, it is certain that the rest of the streets branching from it began to be constructed, shaping the Mazatlán of the 21st century.
Did you know?
The street measures 1.4 kilometers and to this day, it remains a commercial corridor, but now with cafes, restaurants, and bars. It has always held great significance as a 'bridge' that connects two highly frequented and commercially significant areas, namely North Beach and South Beach.
📍 Location
Belisario Domínguez Street, Downtown, 82000 Mazatlán, Sinaloa.
