A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Cacaxtla: A Journey to the Pre-Hispanic Past in Tlaxcala, Mexico

Place Description

Cacaxtla is an archaeological site located in the state of Tlaxcala, Mexico. This place was the ceremonial center of the Olmeca-Xicalanca culture, a pre-Hispanic civilization that flourished between the years 650 and 900 AD. Cacaxtla is famous for its impressive murals, which are considered among the best examples of pre-Hispanic mural art throughout Mexico.

Tourist Interest

The main attraction of Cacaxtla are its murals, which depict scenes from the daily and mythological life of the Olmeca-Xicalanca culture. The murals are incredibly well preserved, with vibrant colors that still shine after more than a thousand years.

The most famous mural is the one called "The Great Basement", which covers a surface of more than 200 square meters. This mural represents a battle between two groups of warriors, and is full of fascinating details about the clothing, weapons, and war tactics of the time.

Another attraction of Cacaxtla is its architecture. The site has several impressive structures, including the Great Basement, a large elevated platform that served as the ceremonial center of the city. There are also several other structures, including temples, palaces, and squares, which offer a fascinating insight into life in ancient Mesoamerica.

Surroundings

In addition to Cacaxtla, the Tlaxcala region offers several other tourist sites of interest. One of them is Xochitécatl, an archaeological site that was contemporary to Cacaxtla and features several impressive pyramids. Another is the city of Tlaxcala, the state capital, which has several beautiful colonial buildings and a charming historic center.

Additionally, the region is famous for its cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as lamb barbecue, Tlaxcala tamales, and Xico mole, among others.

Visiting Cacaxtla

Visiting Cacaxtla is a fascinating experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of ancient Mesoamerica. Whether you are interested in history, art, architecture, or simply want to enjoy a day in a beautiful place, Cacaxtla has something to offer everyone.

Gastronomic Products of Cacaxtla

• Tlaxcalteca Mole

  Mole is one of the most representative dishes of Mexican cuisine and in Cacaxtla, Tlaxcala, it is prepared in a special way. Tlaxcalteca mole is characterized by its spicy flavor and thick consistency. It is made with a variety of chilies, seeds, nuts, and chocolate, which gives it a unique and delicious flavor.

• Tlaxcalteca Tamales

  Tamales are another typical dish of the region. They are made with corn dough filled with different ingredients, which can include meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, chilies, and others. Tlaxcalteca tamales are distinguished by their size, which is larger than traditional tamales, and by their flavor, which is milder and less spicy.

• Pulque

  Pulque is a traditional alcoholic beverage of the region, made from the fermentation of the juice of the maguey. It is a thick and slightly sweet drink, which can be enjoyed both pure and mixed with different flavors, such as fruits and nuts. In Cacaxtla, pulque is an important part of local culture and tradition.

Sporting Activities in Cacaxtla, Tlaxcala

Hiking

The archaeological zone of Cacaxtla, with its impressive natural landscape, is the perfect place for hiking. You can explore the trails that surround the ruins and enjoy the panoramic views of the region.

Mountain Biking

The surroundings of Cacaxtla are ideal for mountain biking. There are several routes that cross the forests and hills, offering challenges for both beginner and experienced cyclists.

Climbing

If you're looking for a more challenging activity, you can try climbing. There are several climbing areas near Cacaxtla, suitable for all skill levels.

Bird Watching

The Cacaxtla region is home to a wide variety of birds, making it an ideal place for bird watching. With a little patience, you'll be able to see species such as the hummingbird, the hawk, and the owl.

Places near Cacaxtla

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

Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl, the jewel of Mexico, captivates with its rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant indigenous culture. Discover its exquisite cuisine, from traditional Tlaxcalan tamales to mole de caderas, in this charming tourist destination.

Huamantla, a gem of Tlaxcala, Mexico, is famous for its flower carpet festival and its rich cuisine, featuring maguey worms, escamoles, and pulque, which delight visitors with their authentic and traditional flavor.