Huichapan
Read more
Slide to the left to continue
◈ This was once the land of mule drivers who took goods and stagecoaches along the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro (Royal Road of the Heartland). This bravery forged characters such as Julián Villagrán, whose fearlessness led him to command groups of men in the insurrection that led to Mexico’s independence.
Huichapan’s history is solidly shaped, like its limestone buildings—both religious and civil structures which are now admired for their beauty.
.
.
◆ Back in time inside the Museum of Archeology and History of Huichapan.
◆ Admire the cave paintings of El Boye.
◆ Admire the architectural ensemble that adorns the center of Huichapan: Capilla de la Tercera Orden, Capilla de la Virgen de Guadalupe and Parroquia de San Mateo.
The churches: Parroquia de San Mateo, Capilla de la Tercera Orden, and Capilla de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.
❖ El Chapitel
El Chapitel is a two-story mansion that retains one balcony with a wrought-iron railing. This is the site of the first commemoration of the Grito de Independencia, proclaiming Mexico’s independence from Spain. Its small museum recounts the story of what happened on that balcony when Ignacio López Rayón and Andrés Quintana Roo met.
❖ Jardín Zaragoza Park
If you are in downtown Huichapan, you will spot the park Jardín Zaragoza. Its tall trees surround the statue of Julián Villagrán, the town’s hero in the Independence movement. Also worth a look are the limestone gazebo and the Presidencia Municipal, holding the town’s government offices, with its nine balconies and archways.
❖ Capilla del
Señor del Calvario
In 1570, a mule carrying an image of Christ was found on one of the hills surrounding the town. When a search for the owner proved fruitless, a church was built to house the figure. This chapel, to the east of Huichapan, currently holds this image of Cristo del Calvario, highly revered in the area.
❖ Cross Over the Aqueduct on a Zip Line
Are you an adventure seeker? A few miles from Huichapan, on the way to San Juan del Río, is a colonial-era aqueduct that has been standing for more than 250 years and is 508 feet long.
You can cross it on a thrilling zip line. The aqueduct is made up of 15 arches. In the middle it measures 115 feet high, making it the highest in the country. The site also attracts people who love bike rides and hikes through the countryside.
❖ Pamper Yourself in Tolantongo Springs
This stunning semiarid canyon reaches up to 1,640 feet deep, as well as being home to captivating caves and natural hot springs. These springs form waterfalls that converge into a turquoise-blue river. The falls, river, and caves, nestled in the semi-desert landscape, create a spectacular setting. There is a water park that adds pools, a restaurant, and hotel to the natural beauty.
❖ Enjoy the Food and Local Handicrafts
The most traditional dishes to order are pork carnitas and tender, shredded barbacoa. You can try them for yourself outside the market or in Los Arcos restaurant. And don’t leave without trying a carnaval—yes, you read that right—a drink mixing orange juice, tequila, and cinnamon.
In Rancho Canteras Jaramillo, they make everything from small limestone handicrafts to large sculptures and building materials. You can learn all about the process of mining, sealing, and shaping the limestone.
You’ll need to make an appointment in advance (T. 761 782 0828.)
❖ Feria de la Nuez
The pecan fair is held mid-September. During these days, religious activities are carried out in honor of Saint Matthew, as well as cultural programs, rides, fireworks, and the famous greased pole competition. There are snack foods and public dances. It is named for pecans because they are abundant during this season.
When: September 21 to 23
