A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Cholula: The City of Pyramids and the Jewel of Puebla

Cholula, located in the state of Puebla, Mexico, is a city that combines the richness of pre-Hispanic history with the beauty of colonial art. Known as the City of Pyramids, Cholula is home to the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world in terms of volume. This city is a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Mexico's rich culture and traditions.

The Great Pyramid of Cholula

The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl (handmade mountain), is one of the city's most prominent attractions. Although it currently looks more like a natural hill due to the vegetation that covers it, this pyramid is actually a man-made structure. Visitors can explore the miles of tunnels that run through the pyramid and visit the Cholula Site Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region.

San Pedro Cholula

San Pedro Cholula is one of the two municipalities that make up the city of Cholula. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including the Plaza de la Concordia, the Church of San Gabriel, and the Cholula Market. The Plaza de la Concordia is one of the largest squares in Latin America and is home to a number of beautiful colonial churches. The Church of San Gabriel, built in 1549, is one of the most impressive examples of religious architecture in Mexico.

San Andrés Cholula

San Andrés Cholula, the other municipality of the city, is famous for its archaeological zone and its vibrant nightlife. Here, visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Cholula and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Church of Our Lady of Remedies, which is located on top of the Great Pyramid. The area of the University of the Americas Puebla, known as UDLAP, is famous for its bars and restaurants, making it a popular place to enjoy nightlife.

Cuisine and Crafts

Cholula is also a culinary destination, famous for its traditional Pueblan food. Visitors can enjoy dishes such as chiles en nogada, cemita poblana, and mole poblano. In addition, the city is known for its crafts, especially its beautiful pieces of talavera, a hand-painted ceramic that is typical of the Puebla region.

Festivities

Cholula is famous for its festivities, especially the Feast of the Virgin of Remedies, which is celebrated in September. During this festival, the city is filled with music, traditional dances, and processions. The celebration of the Day of the Dead in November is also notable, when the streets of Cholula are filled with colorful altars and parades.

Gastronomic Products of Cholula

• Cemitas

  Cemitas are a type of sandwich originating from Puebla, and they are very popular in Cholula. They are made with a round and fluffy bread, filled with ingredients such as pork, cheese, avocado, onion, and sauce. The bread is topped with sesame seeds, giving it a unique flavor and texture.

• Mole Poblano

  Mole Poblano is one of the most emblematic dishes of the region. This dish is a thick sauce made with a variety of chilies, spices, chocolate, and nuts. It is traditionally served with chicken or turkey, and is accompanied with rice and tortillas. Mole Poblano is a delight that you cannot miss in Cholula.

• Chiles en Nogada

  Chiles en Nogada is another typical dish from Puebla that you can find in Cholula. It consists of poblano peppers stuffed with a stew of pork and fruits, covered with a walnut sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate. This dish is especially popular during the pomegranate season, from July to September.

• Arab Tacos

  Arab tacos are a specialty of the Puebla region. These tacos are made with marinated and roasted pork, served in a pita bread. They are a delicious blend of Mexican and Middle Eastern flavors and traditions, and are a popular street food option in Cholula.

Sporting Activities in Cholula, Puebla

Mountain Biking

Cholula is known for its beautiful mountains and trails, making it an ideal place for mountain biking. You can explore nature while exercising and enjoying the stunning views.

Hiking

Hiking is another popular activity in Cholula. You can walk to the top of the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world in terms of volume. From the top, you will have a panoramic view of the city and the nearby volcanoes.

Soccer

Soccer is a very popular sport in Mexico, and Cholula is no exception. You can join a local match at one of the many soccer fields in the city, or simply enjoy a game at one of the local bars.

Yoga

If you're looking for a more relaxing activity, you can join a yoga class. There are several yoga studios in Cholula that offer classes for all levels, from beginners to advanced.

Places near Cholula

If you are in Cholula and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Atlixco, known as "The Best Climate in the World", is a charming tourist destination in Mexico, famous for its colorful nurseries, its impressive colonial architecture and its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional dishes such as cecina and mole poblano.

San Andrés Calpan, in Puebla, Mexico, is famous for its impressive colonial architecture, its historic churches, and its delicious cuisine, highlighting dishes with chiles en nogada and mole poblano. A perfect destination for lovers of history and food.