The city of Queretaro is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Beneath its cheerful exterior and behind the natural charm of the landscape, this city offers monumental jewels about the interesting and glorious history of Mexico. Besides its cultural ambiance full of legends and traditions, the lively city of Queretaro also features plenty of attractions for those who enjoy dancing, listening to music and sampling the delicious regional cuisine. Experience an unforgettable afternoon on a famous ''callejoneada'', a street parade full of music, student bands and groups of wandering minstrels.
Description
Queretaro combines the past with the present, creating an incomparable mixture of history, culture and tradition. The cobblestone streets of the historic center contrast with the modern highways that give access to the city. The fascinating monuments and wonderful museums stand out among the modern architecture of the theater and the large Corregidora Stadium. On the other hand, the stunning aqueduct and the camphor trees, silent witnesses to the passing of time, give shade to this beautiful city.
The traditional and unique dishes typical of Queretaro captivate even the most demanding palate. The interesting combination of architectural styles, the cool weather, the kindness of the people, the sound of the Huapango music and the sensation provided by the flower filled streets during summer, will transport you back in time and show you the splendid grandeur of the Mexican culture.
According to legend, this beautiful city, declared as Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO, was born under divine protection. Its foundation is popularly known as a miracle, and the people have a magical air that you will see as soon as you arrive in Queretaro.
A Rich History
On July 25th 1531, the Conquering Army and the Chichimeca Army arranged to meet on the Sangremal Mountain, where an unprecedented battle took place, fighting hand to hand using nothing but their fists as weapons. The legend tells that a solar eclipse darkened the day, then a shining cross appeared in the sky followed by the apostle Santiago, who ended the battle and converted the Chichimecas to Christianity. It was then when Santiago de Queretaro was created as a community, becoming eventually one of the most important cities in Mexico, cradle of the history and culture of the Mexican people.
In 1848, the city of Queretaro became the temporary capital of Mexico and it was here where the final decisions were taken to put an end to the war against the United States. During the French intervention (1864-1867), Queretaro witnessed the republican victory when the Emperor of Mexico, Maximilian of Habsburg, along with the most important conservative generals, were executed on June 19th 1867 on the Cerro de las Campanas (Mountain of Bells), putting an end to the Second Mexican Empire.
At the beginning of the 19th Century, the city of Queretaro served as the headquarters of the revolutionaries who sought national independence. The city was also the meeting point for historic characters such as Epigmeo and the Emeterio Gonzalez brothers, as well as Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, wife of Corregidor Manuel Dominguez. It was inside the majestic Teatro Iturbide, currently named Teatro de la Republica, that the political constitution of the United Mexican States (the official name of Mexico) was first put into effect, on February 5th 1917.
Queretaro has always been an important traditional Mexican city. Discover more about the history of this special city full of mysticism and legends. Come and enjoy Queretaro!