Hermosillo was founded in 1700 to fight the Seri Indians and protect the Spanish population. It was originally named Real Presidio de la Santisima Trinidad del "Pitic", a word that means river junction, by its founder, the Second Lieutenant Juan Bautista Escalante.

On September 5th, 1828, its primitive name was substituted by the actual one, Hermosillo in honor of General Jose Maria Gonzalez de Hermosillo.

Since March 14th, 1831, the city was seat of local supreme powers that were moved to Arizpe on May 25th, 1832. Later, on April, 1879, Hermosillo became capital of the state and residence of the general offices.

Modern urbanization, together with nineteenth century buildings, gives Hermosillo a provincial touch.