Queretaro (capital city)

Location: Queretaro State, central Mexico
Distance from Mexico City: 130 miles north
Population: 850,000
Closest major airport: F. Espinoza Gutierrez Intl. aka Queretaro Intl. (QRO)
Time zone: Central Standard Time

Queretaro is one of Mexico’s most prized colonial jewels, located two and a half hours by car north of Mexico City. As the capital of the state of Queretaro, the city has 850,000 residents and stands as an important witness to Mexican history.

The city’s colorful historic center is adorned with baroque churches, temples and mansions showcasing graceful balconies and elaborate facades, and is surrounded by charming plazas with stunning fountains and statues. The main square, with beautiful buildings and interesting legends, is the recommended starting point for a walking expedition. Most of the city’s baroque buildings are concentrated in this area, along with the San Agustin Monastery that now serves as the Museum of Art; and the Convent of San Francisco, that houses the Regional Museum of Queretaro.

Several sites in the city’s historic center are representative of its past and traditions. The 18th century-Templo de Santa Rosa, for example, is one of the most exotic examples of ecclesiastical architecture in Mexico. The Cerro de las Campanas – where Emperor Maximilian was executed in 1867 – and Casa de la Corregiadora – home of independence heroine Doña Josefa Ortiz Dominguez – are two additional sights of historical significance. Another site worth noting is the fountain in Plaza de Armas that pays tribute to Don Juan Antonio Urrutia, the man who financed the 12-year project for a five-mile long, 74-arch acqueduct built in the early 1700s to supply water to the entire city.

The main plaza is also a great place for shopping with street vendors lined-up with their permanent stands selling all types of handicrafts. Casa Queretana de la Artesania is a government-operated shop in the plaza that showcases a variety of handicrafts ranging from embroidered fabrics to Talavera-style pottery. Another shop worth visiting is Casa Canela, located in La Casona de los Cinco Patios, known for its traditional and contemporary handicrafts.

Cuisine is another major attraction in Queretaro. The city offers top-notch dining at its leading hotels, including La Casa de la Marquesa, Meson de Santa Rosa and Doña Urraca, all offering Mexican nouvelle cuisine. Travelers interested in tasting enchiladas queretanas, the regional specialty, should head to 1810 in the main plaza at Andador Libertad 64. Quaint outdoor cafes and restaurants are also found at the main square and at the Plaza Corregiadora.

Queretaro is a city rich in colonial traditions and culture, perfect for travelers interested in exploring a well-preserved history represented in spectacular colonial structures.