Puebla, nestled in the centre of Mexico and under the imposing presence of the Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes, opens its doors to visitors and boasts its titles: heroic, because it was the venue for the triumph of the Mexican troops over the French troops in 1862 (during the Battle of Puebla), and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1987. What the people of Puebla are most proud of is its cuisine, one of the most iconic and delicious in the country. Enjoy its irresistible mixture of legends and stories and a skyline studded with the domes of churches.
Here are some good reasons why you should be visiting Puebla right now:
Is the home of Talavera Tile, the origin of some of Mexico‘s famous cuisine, site of the battle commemorated by Cinco de Mayo, and it has the most beautiful backdrop imaginable; Mexico’s iconic twin volcanoes, Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl.
The places to visit in the city:
Puebla’s Zoócalo, the Plaza de la Constitucion, once the site of public hangings and bullfights, is now famous for its centrepiece 18th century fountain and the 16th-century portals. Several blocks away, the Paseo Bravo, with a Talavera-tiled church and a cantina at the other end. The quixotically named Plazuela de los Sapos – Toads’ Square – lined with antique shops, bars and restaurants.
And if you like a little adventure you can’t miss Africa Safari, the first zoo in Latin America to receive accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, they works to recover wild populations (such as the golden eagle). In a single trip, it’s possible to watch a hippo bathe, a tiger wake up from its nap, an antelope toss around a fallen tree branch, and a joey emerge from mama kangaroo’s pouch.
Visit Cholula:
Puebla’s only major suburb, Cholula, is famous for its Great Pyramid. The Guinness Book of World Records calls it the largest ever constructed, because Spanish conquerors built a church on top of it in 1594. Today, La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios is both a protected Colonial monument and a destination for Catholic pilgrims.
The food!
The gastronomy of Puebla is among the most varied and exquisite in Mexico. Don miss to taste Mole Poblano, Tinga (a chipotle-laced beef or chicken stew), and Escamoles (ant eggs) among others.
Travel to Mexico and discover the local culture on a visit to colonial city of Puebla, see an ancient pyramid with a church built on top in Cholula, and view popular Baroque art in Tonantzintla. Check-out Puebla & Cholula Day Trip!
