Colonial Mexico

San Cristobal De Las Casas (Chipas)

Located in the jungles of the tropical southern highlands, San Cristobal de las Casas is a small appealing town with a lot of charm, a lot of Indian influence and some pretty amazing architecture. There are no giant factories, industrial zones or other pollution producing enterprises, this is the edge of the rainforest and the indigenous culture is prevalent throughout the region. As a matter of fact this whole region has really changed very little (in comparison to other areas in Mexico) over the years. This is a city of pastel buildings and homes, tranquil plazas, market places, art galleries and many small malls selling typical crafts and clothing. The cathedral, located on one side of the main town plaza, was begun in 1528. The Church of San Francisco located on Calle Libertad, near the center of town, was once part of a Franciscan Monastery. With a simple façade and roof of tiles and wooden beams, this church holds an incredible collection of colonial art. The Santo Domingo Church and Ex-Convent is an elaborate baroque building, built on the site of the original adobe church that dates to 1547. Featuring a glowing pink façade and extravagant ornamentation, the golden carvings and paintings in its interior make it the city's most beautiful church. The Ex-Convent of Santo Domingo now houses an excellent museum of Mayan culture, and serves as a market place there the local indigenous artisans set up their wares. Always ask permission before taking photos of local Indians as many believe that photos are harmful to their souls.

The city is surrounded by archaeological treasures and indigenous villages which produce a wealth of crafts. Each village clings to its own colorful history, culture and traditions a touch of mystery. In the quaint streets and the surrounding villages the regional Indians still wear traditional clothing and sell their wares, ranging from crafts and textiles with intricate coloring and designs, to fruits, flowers and vegetables. Tours to the outlying villages are easily arranged, as are hikes into the cloud forest. Other areas of interest available to tour are Agua Azul, a mesmerizing lake with beautiful waterfalls, there is an incredibly picturesque string of lakes known as Lagunas de Montebello and just 6 miles from the city you can find the San Cristobal Recreational Park with its interesting caverns. Horseback tours are also available. For tour information inquire at the tourist office located a block from the main plaza.

Some of our favorite places to visit for the Colonial Mexico experience:

• Chichen Itza offers tours to the nearby ancient Mayan cities, and ruins...
• Guannajuanto was once the richest city in all of Mexico...
• Merida is at the center of commerce for the entire Yucatan peninsula...
• Oaxaca is blessed with a climate that is like an eternal springtime...
• Palenque has one of Mexico's most impressive archaeological compounds...
• San Cristobal De Las Casas has a lot of Indian influence...
• San Miguel de Allende is an attractive colonial town, north of Mexico City...

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