Top five things to see and do in Puebla, Mexico
The city of Puebla is one of the oldest Spanish colonial sites in Mexico and it continues to preserve its unique European characteristics. Poblana life is a palette of live and rich history, ancient architecture, handmade arts, and an intense food heritage. If you are short on time when visiting Puebla there are many options on places to visit that are all easily accessed from the "heart of the city" (the zòcalo). My top 5 recommendations are places that give you a glimpse into Mexican hisotry, art, and food culture.
Heart of the city
Just strolling the streets surrounding the zócalo you will experience the beautiful colonial architecture and the main cathedral that has two of the largest church towers in Mexico.
Visit the museum
The Museo Amparo is one of Mexico's most famous museums with a large collection of pre-hispanic, colonial, modern and contemporary Mexican art. The location is only a minute walk from the town square and is a beautiful place to escape the noise of the city.
Culinary history
The Exconvento de Santa Rosa is the place to experience the typical Poblana kitchen and where the famous dish mole was first created. There is also a museum that displays beautiful handcrafts used in the state.
Spend the afternoon
The Iglesia y El Paso de San Francisco is another place that has a lot to offer. Within this area there is a beautiful park, a commerical shopping center, centruy old ruins, and an contemporary art musuem that have all been restored and renovated. This area is particularly beautiful because the old architecture has been respected and incorporated in the new construction.
History walk
Los Fuertes is the place where the important Battle of Puebla took place in May 5, 1862. The land that the forts are located on, overlooks the city of Puebla giving a great place to walk around and explore.
Go out the city
Cholula is a neighboring town that is home to 365 churches and an archaeological site. At the site allows you to explore inside the ruins, around the grounds, and climb the tower of stairs to the church that sits on top. This a beautiful place to see the sun set behind the volcano Popocatèpetl. And besides all of the places to visit, make sure you try out all the food you can!
365 churches in one town? Sounds...religious :)