Puebla is an historic city, where there was a violent struggle in 1862, after the attack made by the French troops. Today there are still many places that recall this very important event in the history of Mexico.
What to see in Puebla
Here are some of the main attractions in the city.
Los Fuertes (Fuerte de Loreto and Fuerte de Guadalupe): are the two strongholds that are located on top of the Cerro de Guadalupe, the main place where the Battle of Puebla took place on May 5, in 1862. The achievement of General Ignacio Zaragoza in order to defend the city against the French invasion is commemorated every year in Puebla for the entire month of May and especially in May 5 (Cinco de Mayo in Spanish).
Zócalo (City Center): is the historic center of Puebla in which you can admire beautiful examples of colonial architecture. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 by UNESCO.
The Cathedral: built between 1575 and 1640, boasts two of the highest towers in all of Mexico.
Los Sapos (Arts District): many painters and artists have boutiques in this district where they offer their paintings to the tourists. Few kilometres away, every Saturday and Sunday, there is a flea market where you can find handicrafts and some antiques.
Chipilo: Italian district located just 20 minutes outside the city.
Cuexcomate: the smallest volcano in the world (no longer active) is in Puebla and is located in the suburb of La Libertad. To get there, you can take the bus from Avenida 11 in the city center bound to La Libertad, and get off at the main square of the village, the last stop of the bus. The volcano is located in the center of the square.
What and where to eat
In Puebla street food is very popular and, unlike what the travel guides say, it is also very safe and clean thanks to the care and the attention that Mexicans pay in the preparation of their dishes.You must try the Quesadillas with mushrooms, sausage (chorizo), squash blossoms (flor de Calabaza), or huitlacoche (corn truffle, an Aztec specialty).
Other specialties of Puebla are:
- Elote: corn on the cob with parmesan cheese, mayonnaise if desired, and chili powder;
- Pelonas: sandwiches filled with meat, lettuce, sour cream and salsa;
- French fries: usually extra crispy and topped with lime juice and salsa;
- Chalupas: a tortilla with green or red sauce then topped with onion, chicken or beef and cheese.
