Tlaxcala: Archaeology, Monastery Architecture and Mountain Forests

Tlaxcala can be explored through a range of interests: archaeological sites, a UNESCO-listed monastery ensemble, museums and activities in mountain forests. These destinations tell stories of trade and an ancient culture, religious architecture and ecotourism. When planning your trip, it is therefore worth first considering which of these themes interests you most.

Archaeological sites: collections and trade history

The Museo de Sitio de Xochitécatl is located in San Miguel Xochitecatitla, Nativitas, Tlaxcala. It displays 342 archaeological objects, including ceramics, jewelry, offerings and everyday items associated with the prominent role of women in ancient Tlaxcalan culture. The collection thus offers a clear cultural perspective. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; last entry is at 4:00 p.m. Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may change.

Zultepec-Tecoaque is located in San Felipe Sultepec, in the municipality of Calpulalpan, Tlaxcala. From 1300 to 1521, it was an important trading post in western Tlaxcala. The site includes three plazas built at different levels and a circular temple dedicated to the wind god Ehécatl-Quetzalcóatl. Its former role in trade and the temple’s religious dedication are therefore both in focus here. By contrast, the Museo de Sitio de Xochitécatl uses its exhibited objects to introduce visitors to the role of women in ancient Tlaxcalan culture.

Huamantla is also home to a museum: the Museo Nacional del Títere. Alongside the archaeological sites, it offers different starting points for planning a culturally focused trip.

Monastery ensemble and ceremonial architecture

The Franciscan monastery and the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Tlaxcala are part of the serial UNESCO World Heritage property “The First Monasteries of the 16th Century on the Slopes of Popocatépetl.” The Franciscan ensemble includes expansive atriums and posa chapels, a freestanding tower and a Mudéjar-style wooden ceiling. These details give the ensemble its distinctive architectural character and offer visitors with an interest in architecture a variety of points of interest.

The Ocotelulco archaeological zone includes a ceremonial temple with a carefully polished stucco floor, two polychrome substructures, a bench and a central altar. The altar depicts Tezcatlipoca and symbols of sacrifice. The focus here is therefore on the temple and its imagery. From the city of Tlaxcala, the archaeological zone can be reached via Gurídi y Alcocer, Ignacio Allende and Julián Carrillo, then taking the turnoff to the town of San Francisco Ocotelulco. From the city of Tlaxcala, the Tizatlán archaeological zone can be reached via Highway 117, Texmelucan–Apizaco, and the exit for the town of Tizatlán.

Nature at the Santuario de las Luciérnagas

The Santuario de las Luciérnagas is located in the municipality of Nanacamilpa de Mariano Arista in the state of Tlaxcala. It is associated with mountain forests consisting mainly of fir, pine and oak trees. Ecotourism activities include hiking, camping and guided tours. The Santuario offers a different focus from the museums and archaeological sites: here, the forest landscape and outdoor activities take center stage. The three activities mentioned offer different ways to spend your time there.

Discover more destinations: Tlaxcala, Apizaco, Huamantla, Chiautempan, Totolac, Tlaxco, Terrenate, Ciudad De Nanacamilpa, Xalostoc, Santa María Atlihuetzián, La Libertad, Santa María Ixtulco.

For the overview of destinations: Mexico.