Metepec is a Pueblo Mágico or Magical Town with a history full of culture, art, and a huge Spanish influence that shines through in its people, its streets, and the warmth with which every visitor is received.
From prehispanic times, Metepec has been a crossing point for travelers and immigrants, and this geographical position has imprinted it with a fascinating mosaic of traditions.
The world famous Árbol de la Vida or Tree of Life is a piece of art that has been locally made for hundreds of years and depicts the cultural mix of inhabitants of Metepec; however, some historians have also said it may be a portrait of the whole of humanity, while others suggest it is a characterization of life as we know it.
This city is renowned for its artisans.
The unique pottery work has received many an accolade worldwide and is exhibited in the Casa del Artesano (House of the Artisan), downtown.
Metepec is also a synonym of religiousness and culture.
Visit the Capilla del Calvario (Calvary Chapel) of neoclassical architecture dating back to the XVIII
century, located on the northern side of the Magueyes Hill (Cerro de los Magueyes) ; if you happen to be around the main square, go see the Catedral de la Asunción and its magnificent architecture.
The local cuisine is a favorite offer at the Monday Tianguis, or street market where you can savor a traditional barbacoa (a dish of pre-Hispanic origin that may very well have been the inspiration for today’s barbeque, consisting of lamb –or other meat- that is slow cooked in a hole dug in the ground over a weave of maguey leaves, without any liquids of ever being in direct contact with the fire); at this tianguis you can also try some fruit pulque – Once the sacred drink of the Aztecs who used it mainly in religious rites and ceremonies-, it has now become a traditional alcoholic drink made by brewing the maguey (agave) juice and flavoring it with fruits; or a garañona (an infusion of herbs and fruits fermented into an alcoholic beverage).
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Visit the Tlanchana fountain dedicated to the goddess of sweet water of the indigenous mythology; it is located nearby the Palacio Municipal in the center of the town.
Take a walking tour around the neighborhoods of San Miguel, Santa Cruz and Espíritu Santo where you will discover some of the local artisan workshops, and, since you are already there, get yourself a beautiful handmade Tree of Life as a souvenir.
Enhance your trip with these nearby destinations: Toluca (is 30 km away and you can go hiking, trekking, and visit the archaeological sites, or enjoy a torta de chorizo -chorizo sandwich- at Los Portales); Mexico City (at a distance of only 60 km, take a few days to visit one of the largest and most fascinating cities in the world).
Things to see and do
historical touring, shopping, handicrafts, architecture, and cuisine.
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