Central Mexico, blend of colonial splendour

Querétaro

Over 200 km northwest from Mexico City is Querétaro, a city who played an important role during the Independence War and where the current Constitution (Carte Magne) was written. Nowadays it turned back to its former glory due to the restoration of the city's historic centre, declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. Querétaro's numerous churches, monasteries and other constructions can easily be reached by the walkways that recall the pace of earlier times. One of the most impressive architectural master piece is the Colonial Aqueduct, that was built in the early 18th century. During many years it was the main water distributor for the city.

Bernal

Close to the village of Bernal, in the state of Querétaro, stands the biggest singular rock of Mexico "La Peña de Bernal". It's a gigantic monolith that reaches the height of 350 m and which can be clearly distinguished from far away.

This monolith forms an essential part of the picturesque landscape surrounding the village of Bernal, catalogued as one of the Magical Villages, and has been used as a scenery for various movies. During the past years la Peña de Bernal has also gained fame among many sportsmen and -women, who have started to practice various adventure sports over there, such as trekking, climbing and rappel.

San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende lies in Guanajuato, Queretaro's neighbouring state, itself a national monument due to its impressive baroque church, square and layout. Due to its layback atmosphere it has become a favourite heaven for artists. The cultural events on offer include exhibitions, theatre, traditional fairs and live music amongst others.

As you walk along the cobblestone streets you'll feel a tremendous sense of calm while you marvel at the beautiful 16th-century buildings, old houses, fountains and gardens of this magical town. During your tour, you can enter the crafts stores and antique shops to buy all kinds of souvenirs. You'll also want to visit the art galleries, markets and restaurants. In San Miguel's famous spas, you can spoil yourself with relaxing health and beauty treatments.

Guanajuato

The city of Guanajuato is one of the loveliest in Mexico. Set in fairy-tale surroundings on the slopes of the Cerro del Cubilete, once it was the richest silver mining town in the world. As a result of the magnificent architecture of its many historical monuments, as well as its unusual urban layout, UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage Site in 1988. Known for its beautiful colonial buildings, you can tour the city on foot along cobblestone streets and through tunnels as you visit various parks and squares, where you'll find outdoor performances of mimes and other street artists. During your visit, be sure to visit the Monumento al Pipila (Monument of Pipila), where you can get an excellent view of the city. Other must-sees are the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum) and the showrooms on the university campus. If you?re in Guanajuato during the last week of October, you can enjoy the International Cervantes Festival, Mexico?s most important cultural event, which offers live music, theatrical and dance performances, and much more.

Morelia

Morelia, the capital city of Michoacan State, was founded in 1541 and got its name in honor of the local hero José María Morelos y Pavón, a key figure in Mexico's independence movement. Many of Morelia's downtown streets are lined with colonial buildings and it still looks Spanish as it did before independence. Its buildings are made mostly of pink-colored stone with intricate facades. The city combines a blend of Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

This glorious city has so many well-preserved colonial buildings that its center was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1991. It's blessed with a gorgeous and imposing cathedral, an important university and a lively cultural scene.