Campeche, a state located on the western side of the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico, boasts a rich history and diverse cultural attractions. It borders Guatemala to the south and Belize to the southeast, with the Gulf of Mexico to the west. The state capital, San Francisco de Campeche, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the late 1990s, highlighting its historical significance.

Campeche is home to approximately 900,000 residents, with about two-thirds living in urban areas along the coast. The state has experienced financial booms and busts over time. During the colonial period, Campeche was an important port and financially prosperous. However, after Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, the situation deteriorated. The state split off from Yucatán in the mid-1800s due to political disagreements with Mérida. In the 1970s, Campeche experienced a resurgence due to offshore oil discoveries, making it an important center for the local oil industry.

The majority language in Campeche is Spanish, but indigenous languages such as Maya, Chol, Tzeltal, and Q’anjob’al are also spoken. Over 90,000 people speak at least one indigenous language, with Maya being the most widely spoken. In addition to these languages, there are approximately 7,000 Plautdietsch speakers who arrived from Mennonite settlements in other parts of Mexico.

Campeche offers a variety of activities for visitors. The state is known for its stunning beaches like Mar Azul and Playa Bonita in the capital area. Additionally, there are numerous historical archaeological sites such as Calakmul and Edzna. These sites provide insight into the Mayan civilization that once thrived in this region.

For those interested in colonial-era architecture, Campeche features several churches built during this period. Notable examples include Iglesia de San Francisco Campeche and Iglesia de San Diego Apóstol Nunkiní. Visitors can also explore caves like Chuncedro and Xculhoc or enjoy nature by diving on fantastic reefs or visiting unspoiled forests such as Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.

In terms of gambling options, there are over 200 legal casinos in Mexico today. Two legal casinos are located in Campeche: Crown City Campeche and Codere Casino Campeche. However, online gambling remains unregulated.

The state capital offers fantastic museums such as Museo Arqueológico del Carmen (MAC) and Museo Fuerte de San Miguel Campeche. These museums provide valuable insights into Campeche's rich cultural heritage.

Overall, Campeche is a fascinating destination that combines history with natural beauty and cultural diversity. Whether you're interested in archaeology or simply want to enjoy a relaxing beach vacation, there's something for everyone here.