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Broken Spears is more than a history book. It is the tragedy of a people whose memory was effaced from the pages of history just as its physical existence was wiped out by the force of arms. The Aztecs of Mexico, who have been reduced to a caricature of their former glory in both might and beauty, are being handled with grace and conviction in this engaging book.

Broken Spears tells the tale of the Spanish conquest, but does so from the mouth of an Aztec warrior. It is the story of Spanish treachery, Aztec courage and brutality, and short-sightedness of minor tribes who lent their power to the Spanish in order to be rid of the Aztec machine.

In all, this is a compelling and interesting study. Those who are interested in Mexico would do well to acquire and read it as part of their preparations for travel to the shiny beaches of the country.

Photo from mycancuntraveldeals.com

Santa Clara del Cobre is the heart of copperworking in Mexico. Artisans, craftmen from all ages pour their creativity and skills into the various kinds of copperware they create, working tirelessly under the warm gaze of the sun.

Mexican traditions are a mix of the cultures and habits of many nations who have arrived here over the years. In Santa Clara del Cobre, a town of just 12000 people, the expression of Mexican spirit finds its most evident form in the hard work and lively creations of the coppersmiths. This place is well worth a visit, if only to meet the tradition kept alive like a mighty shield against unyielding modernity. 

Via SFChronicle: “Whether your interest lies with kitschy sombreros, handmade musical instruments, whimsical carved figures or fine silk shawls, one of Mexico’s greatest pleasures is visiting its hundreds of craft towns. In addition to some of the larger and better-known cities that produce Talavera tile (Puebla), silver (Taxco) and hammocks and mosaico tile (Mérida), clusters of artisan villages — some whose entire populations are employed in a single craft — are sprinkled throughout Oaxaca, Michoacán and Jalisco states. Oaxaca:

Michoacán:

• Paracho (25 miles north of Uruapan) is a small Purépecha town famous for its high-quality, handmade stringed instruments. You can buy a reasonably priced guitar, violin, cello or traditional guitarrón at shops and home factories throughout town and at the Expo Cuerdas in the Casa de la Cultura on the main plaza or visit the Centro Para la Investigación y el Desarrollo de la Guitarra, a school, museum and concert hall.
• Santa Clara del Cobre (11 miles south of Pátzcuaro), spilling down a gentle mountain slope, is devoted to copperware. Tarascan Indians used copper to make rattles, masks and breastplates long before the Spanish turned the town into a mining center in the 16th century. Today, dozens of workshops craft gleaming jars, plates, napkin rings and jewelry with the traditional method of hand-pounding each piece of metal.

Guadalajara:

• Tlaquepaque (five miles southeast of downtown) is an eastern suburb that has become one of the country’s most important centers for arts and contemporary design. It produces a variety of crafts but is known particularly for its hand-blown glass. Lamps, dishes, glasses, vases and figurines are made by classic methods including compression and stretched blown glass, a difficult technique used only for decorative items. Tlaquepaque and neighboring Tonolá, which produces a variety of high-quality crafts from pottery and stoneware to brass and papier mâché, comprise Mexico’s biggest crafts center.

Elsewhere in Mexico:

• Bécal (55 miles from Mérida), in the far northeast corner of Campeche state, is famous for its hand-woven jipis, the pliable Panama hats (which actually originated in Ecuador) made in underground limestone caves, where cool temperatures and steady humidity make the palm fibers pliable for shaping and weaving. Bécal’s hats are every bit as elegant and durable as those made in Ecuador, though their best are shipped to New York, Paris and other international capitals.
• Metepec (35 miles west Mexico City), a suburb of Toluca, produces elaborate and symbolic pottery; its most famous is the árbol de la vida, or “Tree of Life.” These large, hand-painted clay pieces defy description, but are based on a representation of the tree from which Adam and Eve ate and may take on any theme, sacred or profane.
• Santa Maria del Rio (30 miles south of San Luis Potosí) calls itself the “cradle of the rebozo,” the all-purpose Mexican covering, tote and baby carrier. The most prized rebozos are made of silk so fine that the whole cloth can pass through a wedding ring, though less expensive versions are made in other fabrics. You can learn how to make them at the Rebozo School on the town square.

Green house with white trim

CC photo by Mexicanwave courtesy of Flickr

A first glance throughout the town of Campeche shows a beautiful town rich with history and character. Traveling down the streets opens a world of marvelous colors of cool pastel-painted buildings highlighted by white trim. Colonial details offer elegant flavor and tasteful architecture which mixes perfectly with the cultural style of this interesting coastal town.

Cathedral

CC photo by Rageforst courtesy of Flickr

In the 17th and 18th centuries, a wall was built to protect Campeche against pirate attacks. Evidence of the strength and will of the town can be seen in this still-standing structure. Rich historical details which perfume the town also offered it the title of a World Heritage Site in 2002 through UNESCO. Campeche is well known for taking care of its important historic structures preserving them for future generations.

Brilliant colors of homes

CC photo by Jungle_boy courtesy of Flickr

The night show at the Fort of San Jose El Alto is sure to fascinate visitors, but a walk through the beautiful cobblestones streets after the show is just as fun. Exhibits and museums awaken the senses while eateries indulge your culinary desires and bars delight visitors with drinks and entertainment. There is a comforting feel around town which seems to embrace visitors making them feel welcome and at home.

Balconies of Campeche

CC photo by Mexicanwave courtesy of Flickr

Adventures can also be enjoyed outside of town with rafting adventures, mountain biking, hiking and climbing activities. Close to Belize, Campeche is often a stop over or jump off for vacationers to and from this northern South American country. Flights to and from Belize are becoming quite popular with vacationers wanting to visit both areas while visiting this beautiful tropical haven. Trips to Campeche are sure to please and perfect for all members of the family.

CC photo by Simbiosis courtesy of Flickr

Located on the southernmost tip of the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, Tampico is the second most important port in the Gulf of Mexico. Tampico has long been the chosen location for international sporting events because of its prime location, excellent weather and great venues. Fishing is a wonderfully popular sport bringing in many tourists for various tournaments throughout the year.

Rancho el Porvenir

CC photo by Sergio Lubezky courtesy of Flickr

The historic downtown area is a definite must see and best seen by foot. It is suggested that drivers park in any of the lots and enjoy leisurely treks throughout the beautiful city. The area is known for great food, exquisite architecture and interesting shops and boutiques. Culinary fare consists of classical Mexican creations, in addition to, seafood favorites and local specials. Break fast is a must to set your day on the right track and give you energy to take in the many sights around town.

Laguna del Carpintero

CC photo by Simbiosis courtesy of Flickr

The Plaza de Armas is a must see, as well as, the  beautiful Temple of the Immaculate Conception. If you have access to a car, the Tampico Bridge is a breathtaking sightseers delight along with the nearby Laguna de Tamiahua shoreline.Eateries and shops decorate the shoreline offering a delightful trip outside the more crowded historic downtown area. Both, however, must be enjoyed.

Metropolitan Theater

CC photo by Simbiosis courtesy of Flickr

The city of Tampico is brimming with possibilities for leisurely day trips or extended stays. There is something for everyone and for every day of the week. From relaxing walks to indulging cultural activities, Tampico is a modern Mexican city affording so much beautiful history, modern elegance and delightful attractions and fun.

(CC photo by Bruno .C. courtesy of Flickr)

First domesticated nearly 8,000 years ago, the vegetable remains just as important a food source today as it was then. Aztecs revered corn as an important food source and spiritual component for life as well. Often eaten raw off the cob, boiled and grilled, the most common method for cooking was mashing up the cooked kernels into a masa that was dried, mixed with water and lye and rolled into a flat bread, the tortilla.

Corn arches

(CC photo by Docman courtesy of Flickr)

What is so intriguing about this starchy vegetable is it’s health characteristics and how well it plays with other Mexican staples. For example, corn and beans make up the daily requirement of amino acid. This is the protein make up that allows our bodies to function properly. So, the simple, yet tasty, bean tostada offers a very healthy way to sustain life while satisfying the need for flavor as well.

(CC photo by Panetulipani courtesy of Flickr)

A serving of corn offers 25% of your daily vitamin B intake and 20% of dietary fiber. Niacin can also contribute to health, but only when lime is added to corn. The by-product of ash releases the mineral into the human body for absorption. Food made from corn is a wonderful way to get even the pickiest child to not only eat, but eat healthy. It’s nutritional make up affords a perfect energy pick-up and the taste accompanies any Mexican fare perfectly.

(CC photo by Prometeo Lucero {aka Prom} courtesy of Flickr)

Corn comes in a myriad of colors with varying benefits based on the hues. Blue corn, for example, offers a sweet tortilla and even affords a lower glycemic index rating. The colored varieties also offer higher levels of antioxidants.

What’s the best way to taste Mexico’s best corn? Visit any market place in Mexico during shopping adventures and you are bound to find stalls with corn tortillas being freshly made. Either with toppings or by themselves, corn tortillas are the perfect way to indulge in the historically valuable and ever popular staple of Mexican culture. A healthy and affordable alternative to some other street food, tortillas are the perfect snack during your Mexican travels.

Horchata is a very popular drink found throughout Mexico and even spreading into the United States. It is often found with aguas frescas and usually considered one of these popular licuados. A common drink in restaurants and on street corners, the drink is thought to be a healthy alternative to soda, especially for children.

Much like traditional fruit aguas frescas, horchata is made from rice and the water left from sitting rice. The drink is packed with the nutrients from the rice, as well as, any other flavorings that are added. The drink is also easily made into a healthy morning drink by utilizing natural sweeteners like honey and nectar, instead of sugar, and with the addition of milk or coconut milk.

Once seen only in Mexico and South America, horchata is becoming quite popular over the border. Many companies are making bank of the popular beverage, but packaged variety can hardly compare to the delicious original you’ll find deep in the heart of Mexico. In the meantime, here is one recipe to enjoy from the comfort of your own kitchen.

A simple recipe for homemade horchata calls for ingredients found in most pantries. Long grain rice, cinnamon, vanilla, sugar and water is all you need. Many find the use of honey or agave sweetener as a more healthy option. Pour about a cup of rice into a blender, add 5 cups water and blend. When the rice begins to break up, after about a minute, stop blending and allow the mixture to sit for about three hours or you can refrigerate overnight. Some choose to add powdered cinnamon now, or throw a cinnamon stick in to soak. After sitting, strain the cinnamon and rice and add sugar, vanilla and about 1/2 cup milk. All recipes are different and some choose to use coconut milk and fresh vanilla beans. Once you give it a try the sky’s the limit. Enjoy!

Aguas frescas (CC photo by mswine courtesy of Flickr)

Aguas Frescas translates to fresh waters is a refreshing treat popularized in Mexican and spreading like wildfire across the borders to the north and south. The sweet drink is often enjoyed as a snack or as an accompaniment to meals. Depending on the ingredients, the drink can also be enjoyed as a delicious and nutritious breakfast.

Lots of kinds of aguas frescas (CC photo by the Daily Joe courtesy of Flickr)

With all the tantalizing fresh fruits found in marketplaces throughout Mexico it’s not surprising that the lists of flavors can be quite extensive. Some of the most popular flavors are horchata, jamaica and tamarindo. Horchata is a rice drink, jamaica is a flower and the tamarind pods flavor the tamarindo.

So many flavors (CC photo by Biskuit courtesy of Flickr)

Fresh fruits and even vegetables are pureed to make some very delicious creations. One flavor becoming quite popular is a mix of cantaloupe and cucumber. The puree is mixed with water and sugar or honey for sweetening and thinning out. Sometimes other flavors and herbs are added for medicinal qualities. Instead of water, yogurt or milk is sometimes used for a creamier consistency and for a healthier alternative.

Aguas frescas in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero (CC photo by Dolanh courtesy of Flickr)

You are sure to find these amazing drinks throughout Mexico’s biggest to smallest cities. Vendors use rolling carts, like the one above, or afford gracious cafes where you can sit and enjoy an agua fresca with a pastry. Take a time out from shopping and from tourist attractions to indulge in this sweet Mexican treat that is sure to please.

Drying racks (CC photo by petirrojo courtesy of Flickr)

The gorgeous Mexican pottery known as Talavera has an intriguing history that dates back to the 16th century. Mexico is full of tales and stories, so it is sometimes difficult to trace the facts back. There is a pretty solid agreement, however, that the Talavera so popular in Mexican has far reaching roots in Spain. That is where it all began.

Applying the glaze (CC photo by petirrojo courtesy of Flickr)

While the indigenous people of Mexico have always produced beautiful pottery, in the 16th century they were taught skills that would take the art to a new level. Monks from Spain brought artisans to Mexico and these tradesmen taught local the art of pottery work known as majolica. Natural ingredients from the earth, namely clay, is transformed into pottery through use of potter’s wheels, molds or by hand.

Before and after (CC photo by petirrojo courtesy of Flickr)

While the intricate details of brushing pigments onto unfired glaze is part of the process that was missing from ancient Mexican pottery, the cultural vibrancy of the indigenous people would bring flare and brilliance to the pottery. Their use of colors and locally loved items, like flowers, foods, and animals, would set Mexican talavera a part from that of Spain.

Talavera factory in Dolores Hidalgo (CC photo by Joeh courtesy of Flickr)

Puebla was the first place that talavera took flight and today, it is the one place in Mexico with strict restrictions and standards that date back to the 16th century. These regulations are taken very seriously and even protected by the Mexican government. One such rule even dictates which clay can be used and even which area around Puebla where it can be gathered.

Talavera is indeed one of the most beautiful crafts found throughout Mexico, but a trip to one of the factories in Puebla or Dolores Hidalgo can offer an amazing snapshot of Mexican history. The colorful pottery that accompanies you back home holds a more sacred memory when you see how it is made.

Chicharrones (CC photo by You Area0 courtesy of Flickr)

Ridiculously indulgent, but totally worth the strain to your arteries, Chicharrones are fried pork rinds that have a light and crunchy texture that offers the perfect crunch. In Mexico, pork rinds are served in tacos or on the side of dishes. Sometimes they are used as a topping adding delicious texture to food or are simply eaten like chips.

Ready for frying (CC photo by You Area0 courtesy of Flickr)

The chicharrones are made by frying pork skin. The pork skin is first soaked in hot, but not boiling water, to ready it for hair removal. The skin is then skinned to remove only the hair and any leftover fat still remaining. After a second soaking, this time in boiling water, the skin is hung out to dry. Rods are usually placed to spread out the skin and ensure proper drying.

Up close with a chicharron (CC photo by CB Castro courtesy of Flickr)

After drying, the skin is cut into strips and fried, usually in a large cauldron or wok. Often the chicharrones will be fried multiple times with a waiting period in between. These multiple fries ensure a perfectly crisp result. Shopping throughout Mexico will probably bring you to a stall where you can watch them being made and then take a culinary souvenir back to the hotel.

Piles of chicharrones (CC photo by Finnadat courtesy of Flickr)

Chicharrones are not healthy, by any means, but they are similar to potato chips in fat and sodium. Many who hear about this delicacy gasp in horror. However, dig in and enjoy this once-in-a-while splurge. The texture is likely to please one and all and they truly are an addiction when served with some fresh made salsa. Known by cracklings by some in Mexico, Chicharrones are the delicious fried pork rind that tops any dish and leaves you begging for more.