A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl: The Cradle of the Mexican Nation

Introduction

Located in the heart of Mexico, Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl is a city rich in history and culture. Known as the cradle of the nation, this city was an important power center during the pre-Hispanic period and played a crucial role in the conquest of Mexico. Today, Tlaxcala offers its visitors a wide variety of tourist attractions, from archaeological sites and colonial buildings to cultural festivals and local cuisine.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

One of the main attractions of Tlaxcala is its historical and cultural heritage. The city has numerous colonial buildings, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, an impressive example of 16th century Baroque architecture. Other sites of interest include the Government Palace, which houses murals by the famous Mexican painter Desiderio Hernández Xochitiotzin, and the former convent of San Francisco, one of the first Franciscan convents in America.

Archaeological Sites

Tlaxcala is also home to important archaeological sites. Cacaxtla, for example, is an ancient ceremonial center that boasts some of the most impressive mural paintings in Mesoamerica. Another notable site is Xochitécatl, an ancient city known for its circular pyramid, one of the few of its kind in Mexico.

Festivals and Cultural Events

The city of Tlaxcala is famous for its festivals and cultural events. One of the most prominent is the Tlaxcala Fair, which is held in November and offers a wide variety of activities, from bullfights to music concerts and traditional dances. Another important event is Holy Week, which is celebrated with a series of processions and religious rituals.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Tlaxcala is another of its great attractions. The city is famous for its tamales, corn tortillas filled with different ingredients and steamed. Other typical dishes include Tlaxcala mole, a sauce made from chilies and spices, and escamoles, ant larvae considered a delicacy in the region.

Nature and Adventure

For nature and adventure lovers, Tlaxcala offers a wide variety of options. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, from the mountains of the Sierra Madre Oriental to the coniferous forests of La Malinche. These places are ideal for activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.

Gastronomic Products from Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl

• Xico Mole

  Xico mole is one of the most representative dishes of Tlaxcala. This mole is characterized by its sweet taste and thick consistency. It is made with a variety of chilies, chocolate, almonds, raisins, and spices. It is traditionally served with chicken or turkey and accompanied by white rice.

• Tlaxcalan Tamales

  Tlaxcalan tamales are a delight of local gastronomy. They are made with corn dough filled with different ingredients, such as pork, chicken, cheese, beans, or fruits. They are wrapped in corn husks and steamed. They are ideal to enjoy for breakfast or dinner.

• Lamb Barbacoa

  Lamb barbacoa is another typical dish of Tlaxcala. It is prepared by slowly cooking lamb meat in a clay oven, which gives it a unique and very tasty flavor. It is served with corn tortillas, sauce, and lemon.

• Pulque

  Pulque is a traditional alcoholic beverage from Tlaxcala, made from the fermentation of the juice of the maguey plant. It has a slightly acidic taste and a viscous texture. It can be enjoyed alone or mixed with different flavors, such as pineapple, guava, or oatmeal.

Sporting Activities in Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl

Hiking

Tlaxcala offers stunning hiking routes, such as the one in La Malinche National Park, where you can enjoy nature and reach the top of the inactive volcano.

Mountain Biking

For cycling enthusiasts, Tlaxcala has challenging mountain routes and impressive landscapes. You can explore the trails of La Malinche National Park or the routes around the city.

Climbing

If you're a climbing enthusiast, Tlaxcala is the perfect place for you. You can climb in La Malinche National Park, where you'll find routes for all skill levels.

Soccer

Soccer is a very popular sport in Tlaxcala. You can enjoy a match at the Tlahuicole Stadium, home of the local team, the Coyotes of Tlaxcala.

Paragliding

For the more adventurous, Tlaxcala offers the opportunity to fly in a paraglider. From the heights, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Nearby Places to Tlaxcala de Xicohténcatl

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

"Cacaxtla, in Mexico, is a fascinating archaeological site with colorful and well-preserved murals. Enjoy the rich local cuisine, with dishes such as mole poblano and chiles en nogada, reflecting the pre-Hispanic heritage of the region."

Huamantla, in Mexico, is famous for its annual flower carpet and its vibrant local culture. Visitors can enjoy culinary delights such as tlacoyos, mole de olla, and escamoles, all traditional dishes from the region.

Apizaco, in Tlaxcala, Mexico, is a charming tourist destination with historical architecture, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria de la Misericordia. Its rich cuisine includes local delicacies such as blue corn tamales and guajolote mole.