Located in Mexico’s central region in a zone with great biodiversity, consisting of sierras, forests, valleys and one of the nation’s most important river basins.
If you’d like to see the traditional dances of Quetzales and Voladores, visit the picturesque town of Cuetzalan. The state of Puebla also has interesting archaeological zones, such as Yohualichan, an ancient Totonac ceremonial center, and Cantona, where you can check out the numerous courtyards and see more than 20 ball courts. Also of interest is La Malinche National Park and volcanoes Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl, which are covered with coniferous forests. These areas are ideal for trekking, hiking and mountain climbing.
In the state capital, known as the City of Angels, you can admire the magnificent architecture in the Historic Center, declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. You can also visit Puebla’s museums, where the city’s cultural and historical values are exalted, such as the Talavera crafts and the exquisite cuisine. During your stay in Puebla, you can try delicious dishes like mole and chiles en nogada (stuffed poblano chili peppers bathed in walnut sauce). Puebla is also famous for it goat’s milk and yams. Nearby, you can visit the archaeological zone of Cholula, which has one of the nation’s largest pyramids by volume. You can also go to the African Safari Zoo, a park where animals run free. At the Valle de Tehuacan Biosphere Reserve you can see diverse plant and animal species.
Puebla
Known as the City of Angels, Puebla, a World Heritage Site, lies 136 km (84 mi) from Mexico City. The climate is mild and semi-humid, with rainfall during the summer and the beginning of fall, and generally cool days during the summer months. The average temperature is 16º C (61º F).
This city has some 5,000 colonial buildings, which are mostly baroque edifices built during the 16th century. The Cathedral is one of the most notable examples of this city’s beautiful architecture. At times, it seems as though the architectural designs of some of the convents, churches and squares came from heaven above. Not only is this city known for its splendid architecture, but it also offers excellent cuisine, which is a blend of pre-Hispanic, Arabic, French and Spanish influences. Among the world-famous dishes are chiles en nogada (stuffed poblano chili peppers bathed in walnut sauce), and mole poblano (a regional mole dish).
Here you’ll also find wonderful crafts, including Talavera pottery, el arbol de la vida (the tree of life) figurines, bark paper paintings and unique onyx and marble sculptures. You can find those items and much more at the traditional markets and beautiful plazas where artisans sell their products. Puebla, a city of gray hewn stone constructions, is Mexico’s fifth largest city. As you walk along the streets, you’ll see marvelous facades with lovely iron balconies. In the environs, you’ll find beautiful natural areas where you can do all kinds of outdoor recreational activities. During your stay, be sure to visit the Izta-Popo National Park, La Malinche National Park and the Valle de Tehuacan Biosphere Reserve, the largest reserve in the world. |
