Just 32km North of the much better known city of Puebla, the small state capital of Tlaxcala is an architectural gem, a treasure house of colonial architecture - and largely unvisited.......
Edging the plaza are some of the most elegant and best preserved colonial buildings to be seen anywhere in Mexico. Step inside the Palacio de Justicia and you will be treated to this feast of murals documenting important events in Mexico's history...
Ascend a steep and shady winding path and you will reach the Ex-Convento Franciscano de la Asuncion and its wonderfully peaceful courtyards and tranquil atmosphere....
Ascend 1 km in a different direction and you will come across one of Mexico's most spectacular churches - Santuario de la Virgen Ocotlan which is a very important pilgrimage site ever since the belief that the Virgin appeared here in 1541...
The classic facade with white stucco "wedding cake" decorations contrasting with the plain red tiles creates an imposing and impressive first impression. The architectural details of this church plus the wealth of others in the town make Tlaxcala a must for those interested in colonial architecture...
For accomodation there is a range of small homely posadas, but the most atmospheric place to stay in town is the renovated 19thc mansion on the south side of the zocalo namely the Posada San Francisco....
However, at only 122km east of Mexico City which translates into a two hour bus journey from TAPO, Tlaxcala is perfectly reachable for a day trip. If you like peaceful and tranquil places for a day's wandering and meandering then don't miss this town!! For more travelling around the world this week check out the My World Tuesday postings by clicking here... Don't you just love how Tlaxcala is placed as the centre of the world in this signpost??
10 comments:
You make an excellent travel guide. Loved the sights and descriptions--and the way you group your photos.
Thanks Louciao - my plan is to try and persuade people to come and explore some of the lesser known parts of Mexico beyond the beach resorts...glad you like the pix..
ps - Louciao - I love the signs here where Tlaxcala is placed at the centre of the world - different from what is usually perceived to be the heart of the universe!!
Lovely town! The architecture is amazing.
Yes, I do like those signposts very much. You can just "hang a right" to get to Beijing -- that's so good to know! LOL
It gives me the idea to dress up as a signpost for Halloween, since, of course, *I* am the Center of the Universe. ;)
Thanks for commenting on my Shadow Shot!
- Square Peg Guy.
aloha,
what a beautiful views of this lovely town, i would love to visit some day
i have an interesting place to visit today on my sari site
Delight post as always, Catherine! And that is another one of those delightful places that one can find in Mexico! Love your photos and your descriptions! These places should hire you! You do a great job! Enjoy your week!
Sylvia
Wow, those photos are impressive and I enjoyed this post very much, thanks.
An English Girl Rambles
Whither away, friend?
Mexico, Beijing, Paris?*
Tlaxcala for me!
* To be pronounced as the French do.
Lurking Turkeys
I've already planned a trip to Puebla in March 2011. Now I will HAVE to go to Tlaxcala as well!
thanks for the comments everyone - much appreciated...
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