Area Attractions
The state of Tlaxcala:
This smallest of Mexico’s states is rich in culture and history, architecture and artisans. Pre-Hispanic peoples built magnificent ceremonial centers complete with huge pyramids and vividly colored murals, whose ruins still impress and fascinate today. And it was here in “the cradle of the nation” that Cortés convinced the independent Tlaxcalans to ally themselves with him against their long-time enemy, the Aztecs. The rest, as they say, is history. The Spanish influence is evident in the many colonial buildings, baroque churches, abundant tile work and decorative wrought iron.
Tlaxcala City
This is the historic capital of the state and one of the first cities founded by Cortés in “Nueva España” almost 500 years ago. Nestled in the hills of the central highlands, Tlaxcala retains it small-town colonial charm even as it moves toward increased growth and modernization. Its tranquil beauty and historic importance make Tlaxcala a wonderful place from which to explore central Mexico.
While here you may wish to:
While here you may wish to:
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RELAX in the shady, flower-filled central plaza, where you can listen, or dance, to live music on weekend evenings.
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ENJOY a cup of coffee or a delicious meal at one of the colorful sidewalk cafes tucked under the graceful arcade that borders the plaza.
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LEARN about the traditional Tlaxcala way of life at a living history museum. See artisans demonstrate weaving and the making of pulque (fermented cactus juice). Or visit any of Tlaxcala’s several other museums, which feature art from pre-Hispanic to contemporary.
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VIEW the spectacular colorful murals that recount the history of Tlaxcala from the gods’ gift of corn to the indigenous people to the time of the Conquest.
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VISIT any of the many baroque churches, such as the hilltop Basilica of Ocotlan, described as “a dazzling white wedding-cake confection filled with marvelous art.”
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STEP BACK in time as you tour any of the many ex-haciendas in the area. Some are in ruins, but others have been restored to serve as luxury hotels or as ranches dedicated to raising fighting bulls or making pulque.
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SHOP for regional handicrafts: serapes, blankets, pottery, ceramics, decorative tile, embroidered clothing, silver jewelry.
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BRAVE the bustling open-air market, where your senses will be assailed by a tumult of colors, textures, smells and sounds.
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PARTICIPATE in one of the many lively fairs and festivals that take place year round.
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HIKE or MOUNTAIN CLIMB in Tlaxcala’s natural beauty. Team up with professional guide Paco Montiel to rock climb, hike to the top of nearby volcanoes La Malinche and Iztaccíhuatl, or trek through Tlaxcala’s alluring hills and canyons.
DAY TRIPS
Cacaxtla and Xochitecatl Archeological sites:
Just 15 miles from Tlaxcala lie these pre-Hispanic ruins, whose astonishing murals retain their brilliant color after more than 1,000 years.
Cholula:
This small historic city 35 miles from Tlaxcala is home to the largest ancient structure in the Americas, the Great Pyramid of Tepanampa. You can explore its labyrinth of tunnels, then climb to the Spanish cathedral built on top of the now-overgrown pyramid.
La Malinche:
The verdant pine forests of this dormant volcano beckon hikers and picnickers to the National Park on its slopes. Amenities include recreational and picnic areas, lodging and food service, and miles of hiking trails.
La Gloria and Santa Maria las Cuevas:
Visit the sites of prehistoric rock paintings and petroglyphs.
Puebla:
This fourth largest city of Mexico is renowned for its culture and colonial splendor, but it is probably most famous for its distinctive hand-made Talavera tile, which decorates everything from buildings and church domes to fountains and park benches. It is the site of the heroic battle against the French in 1862 that is widely celebrated in the U.S.A., as well as Puebla, on Cinco de Mayo. Puebla is also known for its signature dish, "mole poblano", created by Dominican nuns in 1680 in an incredible talavera-tiled kitchen which is now a museum.
