Welcome to an introduction to Queretaro, Mexico. We spent ten days in Queretaro last year and therefore the city was something of a revelation. Queretaro is fashionable Mexicans, but tends to not get on the radar of foreign visitors. As a matter of fact, once we were there, we saw only a few other foreigners. regrettable for them, but great for us!
Not only does the town have a stunning historical centre, but it's well located for a few great day trips. There also are several local vineyards and little towns to go to nearby. Additionally, transport links to the cities of San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato and Merida are good.
Go Back in time at the Calendar Museum
Although the thought of a calendar museum sounds somewhat dull, we loved it! MUCAL is about during a lovely courtyard where hummingbirds hovered. The old building features a wide selection of Mexican calendars and artwork dating back to the 1920's. Additionally, there's a cute café within the peaceful garden.
Pay a visit to the fashionable Art Museum
This impressive museum is housed during a 17th century convent. within the past, it's also been a jail and a faculty . lately , it's home to an array of up to date exhibits, which are on display both inside and out of doors . It's definitely worth a visit for anyone who has an appreciation of recent art. What's more – entrance is free!
Explore the Historical Heart of Queretaro
The city offers some fine samples of colonial architecture. thanks to its ethnic population over the years, the town has two distinctive sections. Within the primary , are the alleyways which were inhabited by the indigenous people. The second are the avenues and plazas lived in by the Spanish settlers.
Queretaro's heart is home to a wealth of 17th and 18th century buildings and plazas. Additionally, there also are variety of statues scattered throughout the centre. one among our favourites were the Otomi Dancer next to the Templo de San Francisco .
We also loved the sculpture of an alien-like figure by Leonora Carrington.
Take a glance at the Roman Aquaduct
One of Queretaro's major features is its Roman aqueduct. Consisting of seventy-four arches, it had been built between 1726 and 1738. the development was completed by Chichimeca and Otomi indigenous workers. Its purpose was, in fact, to deliver clean beverage to the town after locals became ill from drinking dirty water. The aqueduct stretches for 1.3 kms and may be viewed from many points across the town . The Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus, which leaves from the most plaza follows a route alongside the aqueduct.
Learn about Queretaro at the Regional Museum
This museum is found during a former convent. Built between 1540 and 1550, it features a courtyard and fountains, surrounded by arches on two levels. The building itself is gorgeous , but it is also an excellent place to find out about the history of the local area. Exhibits include paintings along side sculpture, clothing and weapons. Additionally, there are pictures and documents on display. The museum is found within the heart of the town .
Browse within the shops and markets of Queretaro
Queretaro isn't a serious shopping hub, but there are a couple of handicraft and gift stores to peruse. the foremost popular souvenir is that the Otomi Doll, images of which may be seen everywhere the town . The dolls are sold buy indigenous vendors who wear traditional dress. they will be seen carrying basketfuls of the dolls as they wander through the streets. The local markets also are fun to explore and are especially lively at weekends.
Stroll round the Colourful Streets
There are colourful buildings aplenty within the city. From doors adorned with bougainvillea to buildings painted in hot pink or bright orange, the backstreets are fascinating. Another interesting feature were cars which matched the buildings they were parked ahead of, almost like an art installation. Indeed, we weren't sure whether it had been intentional or coincidental. It was, however, something we saw it repeatedly whilst in Mexico.
Have Breakfast at La Vieja Varsovia
This became our ‘go to' cafe. Although we usually had breakfast there, the restaurant is additionally known for its tempting wood-fired pizza. The dishes served at La Vieja Varsovia are creative, locally sourced and veggie friendly. The freshly baked bread was delicious and therefore the coffee superb. There are tables outside on the plaza and it had been an ideal place to people watch while enjoying a bite to eat.
How to get to Queretaro
Flights – There are regular flights from Mexico City to Queretaro Airport. Also, daily flights depart from Houston and Dallas. The airport is about 45 minutes by road from the town .
By Bus – Frequent buses travel between Mexico City and Queretaro. The fastest of those takes 3 hours. The bus is about twenty minutes from downtown.
Where to remain in Queretaro
We stayed at La Hija del Alfarero Hotel Boutique. it is a good value mid-range hotel within the historical centre. The rooms, which are set around a courtyard, were clean and cozy . Staff were friendly and there was an honest restaurant on site.
0 Comments