As I write from my 17th century boutique hotel room at Casa de la Palma, in the city of Puebla, in the state of Puebla for the annual Tianguis Tourism Fair, I find that the city is more than I imagined.
Having never been here before, here are some exciting things I realized about Puebla:
Puebla is the fourth largest city in Mexico. I imagined it to be a small quaint town, quiet and unassuming. On the contrary, it’s robust and thriving, and surrounded historical buildings and architecturally breathtaking churches, monasteries, mansions and ex-convents around every corner.
The elevation level of Puebla is more than 7,000 feet. Be prepared with headache medicine when you arrive if you’re not used to the altitude.
Two snow-capped volcanoes are right around the corner named Popocatepetl and Ixtaccihualt (or Iztaccihuatl). These volcanoes are the most famous and second and third tallest volcanoes of Mexico and on the list of the 10 top tallest peaks in North America. Since Popocatepetl is active now, flights out of Puebla are sometimes delayed because of volcanic ash.
Puebla has an abundance of churches, close to 300. They celebrate the patron saint of each church on the half hour and every hour.
Mole poblano and talavera are staples of this city.
Puebla is one of the most festive cities I have ever visited in Mexico, if not the most. There is so much more to Puebla, but for now, please enjoy some pics.