This destination is home to wonders that few people know about, such as a chapel with Gothic vaults, cave paintings, and one of the most beautiful mountainous landscapes in Mexico. Plan your next trip, because the next stop is the Magical Town of Tlayacapan.
Located in the state of Morelos, just 90 minutes from Mexico City, this place stands out for preserving much of its pre-Hispanic urban design. The structure of the region is a legacy of the Olmec and Xochimilca cultures, the first occupants of the territory.
El Tlatoani Archaeological Site
Photo:
https://www.gob.mx/sectur/
If you want to discover more about its pre-Hispanic past, we recommend visiting the El Tlatoani Archaeological Zone, located at the top of the Tlatoani hill. In addition to seeing the rock art and ceremonial temples, from this point you will have a panoramic view of the valley; on clear days, you can even see the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes.
A temple with Gothic vaults and mummies
Photo: Margarito Pérez Retana/Cuartoscuro
If you prefer to stay in the center of town, be sure to visit the former convent of San Juan Bautista de Tlayacapan. This 16th-century architectural gem was built by Augustinian friars.
What used to be the friars’ dining room (the refectory) is now a museum exhibiting sacred art; among the emblematic pieces are a Christ made of mortar and a painting of Saint Augustine. Get ready to explore the depths of this temple; literally: you will visit the Gothic vaults and a room with nine mummies!
Birthplace of Chinelo and ash tamales
Photo: Margarito Pérez Retana/Cuartoscuro
If you’re still not convinced to visit the Magical Town of Tlayacapan, wait until you learn a little about its cuisine and festivities.
Go hungry because there are many delicacies that you will fall in love with, starting with the ash tamale, one of its typical dishes that is wrapped in corn husks. It is also known as corunda de ceniza or tamal nejo. Save room to try the cecina and longaniza with a good glass of pulque.
The party is all over the town, which is considered “the birthplace of the chinelo.” Yes, the Brinco del Chinelo dance is traditional to this place and is accompanied by wind music. Every year there is a three-day carnival where the chinelos take to the streets in late February or early March, due to the beginning of Lent. This is the best time to visit Tlayacapan!
As you can see, this Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) is much more than just beauty. Its streets, buildings, and traditions will take you on a journey through centuries of history. So now you have a new destination to escape from Mexico City (without going too far).