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Famous for its balmy weather, impressive diversity and delectable cuisine, Mexico continues to lead the booking trends for Americans traveling abroad this summer, whether it’s the architectural grandeur of Mexico City or the turquoise waters of Cancun that is their goal.
Although largely overlooked until now, there is also a renewed interest in the city of Puebla, especially among culture vultures interested in taste a different taste of Mexico – you know, without the usual crowds and restaurant prices in dollars.
A colonial gem that is over 500 years old, Puebla is finally getting the praise it deserves and is becoming one of the country’s most prolific cultural destinations:
What makes Puebla so special?
Puebla doesn’t have a coastline, nor an ultra-luxury hotel strip, nor is it exactly known as a wellness paradise, but it has that one special something that a majority of Mexico’s Americanized summer resorts lack: that irresistible Old World allure.
Located a short two-hour drive southeast of Mexico City, Puebla was founded in the early 16th century by Spanish colonists, who introduced their concept of city building and European infrastructure to an area that was dotted with indigenous settlements before 1531.
History is not kind to everyone, and although the indigenous population was expelled or forced to assimilate, Puebla grew into an important center for knowledge and art during the period of Spanish rule: it is a planned, vice-royal citywith all the stateliness that entails:
The Zócalo (or main square) is dominated by the Renaissance-inspired Cathedral of Puebla, characterized by its twin belfries and ornate facade, and a lavishly decorated, art-filled interior that is in no way inferior to the great cathedrals of Europe.
The colonial center of Puebla as a whole is one of the best preserved in Mexico, with low houses painted in vibrant colors, cobbled streets that could easily belong on the opposite continent, and an abundance of museums and cultural sites.
What is there to see and do in Puebla?
To begin with, Puebla lays claim to the magnificent Biblioteca Palafoxiana, founded as early as 1646the first public library in America, the Chapel of the Rosario, the center of Mexican Baroque, and described by locals as the Eight Wonder of the World, and the Spanish-built Fort Loreto.
There is an endless list of heritage buildings and historical monuments around Puebla, and it is no wonder that it is a UNESCO protected zonewhere modernist developments are severely limited: the aim is to protect and preserve the old character.
Outside the city center is the main attraction Cholulaa municipality that forms a conurbation with Puebla, famous for its Great Pyramid, a pre-Hispanic structure topped by a striking, yellow-washed colonial sanctuary and a high concentration of churches.
That doesn’t mean that all of Puebla is picturesque squares and colorful backstreets: it’s the capital of the state of Puebla (yes, both bear the same name), and, like any other economic center, don’t be shocked to find the usual skyscraper-studded urban sprawl that goes beyond the quaintness of the Old City.
But like Mexico City, it is the contrast between old and new that’s what makes it so awe-inspiring: that, and the culinary delights.
One of Mexico’s most celebrated regional cuisines
Puebla is as famous for its cuisine as it is for its cultural value, and if you’re ever in the city, be sure to check out their mole poblano sauce, made from savory chili and cocoa, chili en nogadabathed in a creamy walnut sauce, and the signature spicy Arabic tacos.
Puebla has traditionally been a secondary destination in Mexico, a place you’d visit if you’ve already ticked off all the ‘main’ cities and are looking for the new and unexpected; this year, however, it’s starting to steadily climb the tourism charts:
In the US, a 12.7 percent increase in tourism has been confirmed first annual quarter only compared to last year, and aside from Puebla’s undeniable beauty and historical significance, the new success has been credited with a series of new awards that have helped promote the city on an international stage.
These include first place in the gastronomy category Mexico Desconocido‘s Best of Mexico Awards, and included on TripAdvisor’s list of Best of the Best Destinations (plus: Puebla has yet to be overrun with tourists like other colonial cities in its ranks).
Puebla is cheaper to visit than most tourist hotspots in Mexico
In addition to its fascinating culture and delicious cuisine, Puebla is relatively cheaper to visit than other world-famous colonial cities in Mexico.
An overnight stay in the monumental Casa Juarez (Google reviews here), a historic boutique hotel housed in a former colonial guest house, costs just $104 to book per night, while an overnight stay at the Luma B&B Boutique Hotel (Google reviews here), a short 20-minute walk to Puebla Cathedral, is an equally affordable $97.
If you’re wondering how much food costs: tacos and other typical street snacks can be as cheap as $5 cash, while meals at budget restaurants cost an average of $8, and more elaborate three-course dinners for two cost $38, based on Numbeo estimates.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
