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San Francisco, El Origen: 18 Things to Do in Puebla’s First “Barrio Mágico”
“San Francisco, El Origen” is Puebla’s first and very recent Barrio Mágico (Magical Neighborhood). It’s actually made up of 4 neighboring districts: San Francisco, El Alto, La Luz, and Analco. In June 2024, these four were combined to form the Barrio Mágico “San Francisco, El Origen”. Founded on the west bank of the San Francisco River in 1531, the city of Puebla was built on a previously uninhabited area. It was planned as a city for Spanish settlers and to serve as a resting place for travelers and traders between the capital Mexico City and the main port in Veracruz at the Gulf of Mexico. On the east side of…
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How to Celebrate the Day of the Dead in Huaquechula, Puebla (2024)
The Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) is one of the major celebrations in Mexico. You might have heard of how it’s celebrated in Mexico City or other popular places, but have you heard about Huaquechula? This small town is known for its altars of 3 or more levels high, and also for inviting tourists into their homes to celebrate and eat with them to commemorate their dead. However, if you plan to visit Huaquechula during this festive season, there are some things you should keep in mind. To be well prepared and behave appropriately, read my tips for celebrating the Day of the Dead in Huaquechula. Let’s get…
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24 Best Things to Do in Puebla, Mexico – Colonial Architecture, Culture, and Cuisine
History, culture, and amazing food – Puebla has it all. A bustling city located just a few hours southeast of Mexico City, Puebla is the capital and largest city of the namesake state. The city is a blend of stunning colonial architecture, lively markets, and delicious cuisine: Puebla is the home of the Mole Poblano and the Chile en Nogada, both iconic dishes. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its many colonial buildings, among them several adorned with colorful tiles known as Talavera. On top of that, there’s always something cultural going on, which is why so many expats love this place so much –…
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Celebrating Day of the Dead in Puebla 2024 – 13 Things to Do
While most travelers flock to Mexico City or Oaxaca for the famous Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) celebrations in November, Puebla tends to slip under the radar. But after having lived in Puebla and nearby Cholula for over 2 years, trust me when I say – this city is totally worth checking out for this special holiday. Especially if you’re running late with your plans or if you just want a more chill experience without the massive crowds, Puebla is the perfect middle ground. You’ll still get all the festive vibes with parades, costumes, art exhibits, public altars, and stunning sculptures – just with a little more breathing…
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Puebla’s Historic Site of the Forts (Los Fuertes) – 12 Opportunities for History, Nature, Recreation, and Fun
The historic site of the Forts (Zona Histórica de Los Fuertes) – or just short “Los Fuertes” – with its 2 hilltop fortresses that offer panoramic views of the city is a historic landmark. Here’s where the Battle of Puebla occurred on May 5th (Cinco de Mayo) in 1862. Mexico fought against Napoleon III, and the Mexicans fought back the French army under Ignacio Zaragoza. Puebla commemorates this important date with its celebrations on May 5th each year. The two forts, Loreto and Guadalupe, were originally chapels built on the Acueyametepec hilltop. At the beginning of the 19th century, they were reconstructed to serve as military forts. Nowadays, they host museums…
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Ex-Hacienda Chautla and Its Picturesque Castle Gillow: 2024 Guide for a Half-Day Trip
An English-style castle and a lake divided by a dam: The ex-hacienda Chautla in the state of Puebla shows off its glamorous past until today. Once a thriving hacienda with farmland for corn, wheat, and later maguey (an agave plant), it’s now a popular recreational area for the poblanos (people living in Puebla). Just a 45-minute drive from the city of Puebla, it invites you to spend a day in nature at the lake surrounded by forests. And you can even bring your pet along! This guide tells you what it is, what it costs, and what you can do. About the Ex-Hacienda Chautla and Castle Gillow In 1777, the…
