PROGRESO

city and port on the Gulf of Mexico, northern Yucatn estado (state), eastern Mexico. Although vessels must anchor offshore, where a breakwater stretches approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) into deeper water, and are not protected from wind, Progreso is the major port on the peninsula, located about 22 miles (35 km) north of Mrida, the state capital. The port was built to export the henequen, or sisal hemp, produced inland, but it also handles fine woods, chicle, honey, salt, copra, and hides. Progreso's white sand beaches and clear, calm waters make it a popular resort. Pop. (1990 prelim.) mun., 37,806.