Neighborhood of Santa Lucía (photo by Agguizar courtesy of Wikimedia)

In the central region of Mexico, a city in Chiapas stands out for its brilliant use of colors and attention to colonial detail. San Cristobal de las Casas affords architectural splendor and rich cultural detail that playfully animate the buildings around town.

The town is named after the bishop, Bartolome de Las Casas, who stood strongly for the rights of local indigenous people. The elements used when recent renovations were needed insured that historically significant elements of the Tzotzile, Tzeltale and the Lacandon culture were represented. The native people and their culture is strongly felt and their pride is wonderfully enjoyed by all who visit.

Cathedral de San Cristobal de las Casas (photo by Agguizar courtesy of Wikimedia)

There are several religious facilities around town and all are uniquely brilliant. The San Cristobal Martyr Cathedral is a great place to take in the beautiful architecture and culture of the area. A massive staircase rises up the hill of  to the cathedral and in itself, has become the highlight for many photographers.

Staircase for the climb up the hill to San Cristobal (photo by Agguizar courtesy of Wikimedia)

The city of San Cristobal is often seen of great importance for environmentalists and many eco-minded travelers head to the Chiapas destination of  the Huitepec Ecological Reserve. The popoyote is an indigenous fish that is extremely endangered and has been targeted by locals social groups to try and conserve its environment. Urban sprawl has encroached on the wetlands which make up the popoyote’s few kilometers of natural habitat. The popoyote is only found in San Cristobal.

The Church of Santa Lucia (photo by Agguizar courtesy of Wikimedia)

San Cristobal is an amazing city that has withstood the test of time, surviving war, earthquakes and  the inevitable population growth. The changes the city makes to face the future ensures its ties to the past are well established and holding strong. For a taste of some of Mexico’s most colorful culture, travel to Chiapas’ bright city of San Cristobal.

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1. Things to Do in Mexico: Visit San Cristobal de las Casas
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3. Traveling Down the Rio San Cristobal in San Blas,Nayarit

Oaxaca City is located in the southern region of Mexico. It’s a great city to vacation if you like architecture, history and shopping.

Taking a tour through the city, you can see the many beautiful buidlings, such as the Centro Historico (Historic Center), el Templo y ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzman (The Temple and Ex-Convent of Saint Domingo de Guzman), la Basilica de la Soledad (The Basilica of Solitude) and el Teatro Macedonio Alcala (The Macedonio Alcala Theater). Santo Domingo is considered the most beautiful church in Mexico. It is also a museum that is home to terrific exhibits displaying the history of the area.

Surrounding the Historic Center in the city’s main plaza, you will find main traditional markets to shop for pottery, textiles and clothing. Now is a time to also sample the local cuisine with foods such as Oaxacan cheese, tamales, peppers and mole dishes. If you a fan of alcohol, don’t miss out on Oaxaca’s mezcal. This regional beverage is created from the maguey plant.

When staying in Oaxaca, a great choice for accommodations is the Oaxaca Bed & Breakfast Inn. This local inn is just 1 1/2 blocks from Santo Domingo in a terrific, convenient area. There are ten great restaurants and four parks within a three block radius. And 10 300-year-old churches are all within a 10 minute walk from the inn. To learn more about Oaxaca Bed & Breakfast Inn, visit their website.

Photos by Mike McElhatton

Related posts:

1. Five great things to do in Oaxaca City
2. Visiting Tapachula Mexico
3. Best Food: Coffe in Oaxaca