Popocatepetl is an active volcano in Mexico. Its name comes from two words in Nahuatl: popoca — "steaming" and tepetl — "hill" that is the Smoking hill. This is the second highest peak in Mexico after the mountain Orizaba (5675 m).

Popocatepetl is located near the extinct volcano Iztaccihuatl. The names of these two mountains are the names of the heroes of the legend of Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl. The legend tells of two lovers, whom the gods turned into the mountains. When the boy Popocatepetl fought in the war, evil tongues said to his beloved Iztaccihuatl that he died. Then a young bride married another. But after learning that the groom came back from the war unscathed, she killed herself, and followed her and returned warrior.

The Aztecs worshiped these mountains, believing that they give rain, year after year, bringing them their gifts.

Around the volcano is concentrated several major cities: the capital of the States of Puebla (on the East side of the volcano), has Clascal from the North-East and North-West of Mexico city with a total population of over 20 million people. Closest to the volcano is a small town of Cholula.

For all the habitats of the Spaniards on the continent of El Popo, as the locals call it, made itself felt sixteen times, but the researchers argue that in all his life he has erupted more than 30 times. The last activity was recorded on 15 may 2013. Some areas of Puebla literally covered with volcanic ash, was suspended the work of the local airport. In the case of imminent eruption evacuation is subject to 11 thousand people.

Despite its dangerous livelihoods, El Popo attracts tourists because of its grandeur and unearthly scenery and fascinating legend.