city, southeastern Puebla estado (state), south-central Mexico. It is situated in the Tehuacán valley of the Sierra Madre Oriental, at an elevation of 5,500 feet (1,700 m). Founded in 1540, Tehuacán is one of the oldest Spanish settlements in Mexico. Its hinterland yields corn (maize), beans, wheat, alfalfa, oranges, grapes, and pomegranates, as well as cattle, pigs, and goats. Rich silver and lead mines are located nearby. The region is known for its mineral waters, which are bottled in the city and distributed throughout the nation. It also has wineries and distilleries. The scenic setting, pleasant climate, colonial buildings, and the local handicrafts of Mixtec Indians have made Tehuacán a tourist centre. The city, southeast of Mexico City, is accessible from the capital and from Puebla city by highway, railroad, and air. Pop. (2000) city, 204,598.