SEPTEMBER 2008
Puebla and Cholula: living symbols of the Mexican nation

Puebla is a truly fascinating town to visit, and even more so during the Fiestas Patrias. One of the first towns founded by the Spaniards in New Spain, in 1531, it is found right next to its sister town Cholula, once the second most important city of the Aztec empire, which throughout history retained many aspects of its own Native origins. The contrast between the two is still visible today, and stands as a physical metaphor of the mix of identities and origins from which originated the Mexican raza, or people.

The historic center of Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a marvellous assembling of colonial architecture, with its Spanish and French influences well conserved. It was home to many intellectuals and thinkers of the early Independence times, and as such takes great pride in its role in the creation of the country.
Cholula boasts the world's largest pyramid in terms of volume, which, though it is buried under earth, still creates a commanding presence at the heart of the town. Be sure not to miss the breathtaking churches of the small towns of Tonantzintla, and Acatepec, located on the outskirts of Cholula. Their inside decoration is sure to redefine your idea of "baroque" and "surreal".
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g152773-c79004/Puebla:Mexico:.Tonantzintla.And.San.Francisco.Ecatopec.html
Hotel Mesón Sacristía de la Compañía
The Mesón Sacristía de la Compañía is located in a historic colonial building in the centre of Puebla. It offers an eclectically decorated atmosphere, where bright colours meet antique furnishing and offer a unique version of a la Mexicana style. The most discrete details have been carefully thought out, and the service is up to par with that of the fanciest locations of the world. Moreover, in a city famous for its gastronomy, Mesón Sacristía de la Compañía offers to its guest cooking lessons (available in English) with Sister Juana Ines de La Cruz, a chef well-versed into the subtleties of regional cuisine.
http://www.mesones-sacristia.com/

La Purificadora
La Purificadora is a boutique hotel where cutting-edge contemporary design has been used to magnify an old building, using state of the art techniques and recycled materials. The result is simply breathtaking, and has been extensively covered in the architecture press. La Purificadora is part of the Habita group, the gold-standard of boutique hotels. Truly one of the finest accommodations available in Puebla.
http://www.lapurificadora.com/

Planning a trip to Mexico?
Want to know more about what Mexico has to offer?
Call the Mexico Tourism Board at 1-800-44-MEXICO or visit our website. You may also contact our Canadian office at the corresponding number below:

Toll-Free: 1-866-895-5297