Monterrey is a city in the state Nuevo Leon of Mexico. It is the capital of the state as well as the third largest city in Mexico. Named after the Countess of Monterri, the inhabitants are called Regiomontanos and Regiomontanas for the men and women respectively.
The river, Santa Catarina, bisects the city and is dry for most of the year. But an interesting fact is that it has flowing water underground. The city is surrounded by mountains, canyons, trails and roads through deserts and dense forests. These offer a wonderful view of the landscape.
The climate is pleasant is spring and autumn and is hot in the summer. On the other hand, winters are just cool and rainfall is scarce in the place.
The population of the city during the Spanish rule was only a few hundreds, but now it has reached nearly four million. Monterrey has been host to several international events like the United Nations Conference on Financing for Development in 2002, the OAS Special Summit of the Americas in 2004, some official games of the 1986 FIFA World Cup, and the Universal Forum of Cultures in 2007.
In 2005, Monterrey was ranked the most secure city in Mexico and Latin America. The city is connected by three main railroad freight lines and has several bus routes connecting to different cities, and two international airports. There exists a Metro transport system also for public transport.
Monterrey is an important business center as well and was ranked as the second best place to do business, in Mexico. And due to it flourishing steel industry, it is usually known as the “Pittsburgh of Mexico”.
There exist many landmarks and cultural sites in the city and for sight seeing there is an extensive cave system, Grutas de Garcia, waterfalls, mountains, and green hills.