Atlixco between architectural history and scenic views

Atlixco lies on the slopes of the Popocatépetl volcano. When planning a stay, you can focus on different themes: historic architecture, views across the valley, local craft traditions, or the city’s cuisine. If you’re looking for a hotel in Atlixco, first consider whether architectural history, views, or an event will shape your stay. The sights and traditions offer different starting points for planning your trip.

Historic Buildings from Several Centuries

The Zona de Monumentos Históricos de Atlixco was designated a historic monument zone on May 27, 1988. It includes 43 blocks with buildings of historical and architectural value dating from the 16th to the 19th century. The Convento de San Francisco is among the buildings dating from the 16th century. The nave of La Natividad de Nuestra Señora also dates from the first half of the 16th century. The church stands opposite the Plaza de Armas, providing a specific landmark from which to view the building.

The Capilla del Tercer Orden de San Francisco is distinguished by its unusual floor plan, which is shaped like a Latin cross. The chapel dates from the late 16th or early 17th century. In addition to its age, its shape is another feature that draws attention to the architecture. The Convento y Templo de San Agustín, meanwhile, has a longer construction history. Construction began in 1546 with the approval of Viceroy Antonio de Mendoza and was completed in 1629. Unlike the dates given for individual buildings, these two years provide a timeline for San Agustín from the start of construction to its completion.

Crafts, Views, and Events

Atlixco’s craft traditions include objects made from natural-colored and polychrome clay, embroidered shirts, and candles. The range therefore extends from clay objects to textiles and candles. These crafts offer another way to explore the city, whose historic buildings might otherwise dominate your attention.

The four Miradores del Cerro de San Miguel offer a different perspective. From there, you can enjoy views of the bell towers of Atlixco’s monasteries and across the valley. This makes it possible to combine a closer look at individual buildings with a broader view of the landscape. Conditions at the viewpoints may change; check them before your visit.

At the Huey Atlixcáyotl, dance groups from the state of Puebla’s eleven ethnographic regions perform. The festival thus connects Atlixco with contributions from the state’s various regions. The Feria de la Cecina has a different focus: there, experienced artisans prepare traditional Atlixco cecina from thinly sliced beef and cook it on a comal. It is served with handmade tortillas, avocado from Atlixco, and nopales with cream and chiles or salsa. While the dance groups take center stage at the Huey Atlixcáyotl, the Feria focuses on the preparation and the accompaniments described above.

Getting There and Planning Your Stay

You can reach Atlixco by bus from the CAPU terminal via Línea Oro and Erco. Check current departure times before traveling. From Puebla, you can drive to Atlixco via the toll Vía Atlixcayotl or Federal Highway 190. For your journey, you can choose between the bus connection from CAPU and the two road routes mentioned.

Plan your trip around what interests you most: the architectural history, views from Cerro de San Miguel, craft traditions, or the events and their culinary offerings. If you’re planning to travel for the Huey Atlixcáyotl or the Feria de la Cecina, check their dates in advance. You can then look for hotel deals in Atlixco that suit your planned stay.

Discover more destinations: Tehuacán, Huejotzingo, Xocoyolo, Tetela De Ocampo, Tepeojuma, Santa María Coronango, Santiago Xonacatlán, Teziutlan.

For the main travel overview: Puebla.