The main attractions of Mexico, nature and culture, ancient and modern Mexico. Attractions of Mexico: photo with description

Mexico - Attractions: Mexico has two main secrets of its enormous popularity among tourists. Most Americans, under which the Mexican tourism industry was sharpened, are attracted to Mexico by the availability of local five-star hotels with beach holiday on white sand and a nightly "breakaway" in numerous local discos - all this gentleman's set is in every resort in Mexico. But most Europeans, including Russian tourists, necessarily include in their travel program in Mexico such wonders of the world as the pyramids of Teotihuacan, the ceremonial city of the ancient Indians Uxmal and a huge number of other curious places directly related to the mysterious civilizations of the Maya, Aztecs and Olmecs that have disappeared over the centuries. . It may be very difficult to bring a colorful southern tan from a trip to the ancient monuments of this country, but the impressions of such a trip will certainly last much longer than a swarthy skin tone.

So, here is a list of the most tempting attractions in Mexico that are "must" to visit:

1. (“The place where the gods are born”) - it still remains unclear when the first people began to settle here, and also why the city was abandoned, but it architectural monuments still staggers the imagination to this day. The pyramids of Teotihuacan are located about 40 km northeast of the capital of the state - the city of Mexico City.
2. Chichen Itza is sacred place was once one of the greatest cultural centers of the Maya in the Yucatan Peninsula. For about thousand years of history various peoples left their mark for decades, changing the face of the city. The ideas of the Maya, as well as the Toltecs and Itza, about the surrounding world and the universe are reflected in the stone monuments of Mexico and works of art.
3. Palenque is the historical mystery of the country. This world-famous Mayan city is located in the mountain selva, surrounded by tropical vegetation. More than 1,400 of its beautifully preserved buildings cover an area about four times the size of any known Mayan city.
4. (i.e. "Built three times") - another important Mayan ceremonial center, located on the Yucatan Peninsula. Local historical monuments are countless - this is great pyramid and the Magician's Pyramid ("House of the Dwarf"), 38 meters high, the superbly preserved building of the ruler's palace with its famous "throne of the two-headed jaguar", as well as the Temple of the Phalluses, the House of the Turtles, the quadrangular Monastery of the Nuns and famous Pyramid old witch.
5. Monte Alban is the ritual center of three civilizations. For more than 1.5 thousand years, it was inhabited by successive peoples - the Olmecs, Zapotecs and Mixtecs. The Monte Alban complex, with its impressive terraces, various dams and canals, graceful pyramids and artificial hills, was in literally the words are carved from the mountains, thanks to which it has become a real masterpiece of sacred topography.
6. Southeast of Mexico City, in the town of Cholula, there are the ruins of a giant “matryoshka pyramid”, lined with huge stone slabs covered with ornate beautiful carvings.
7. Taxco, picturesque city, located high in the mountains, under the auspices of UNESCO as a monument of world culture, to this day has retained a unique layout and buildings with cobbled streets and houses that are classic for these places, reflecting the architecture of the colonial period.
8. Puebla is located about 100 km east of Mexico City, near the foot of the Popocatepetl volcano. The city was founded in 1531. Here, to this day, such outstanding religious buildings of Mexico as the cathedral, built in the 16th and 17th centuries, magnificent buildings resembling the old palace of the archbishop, as well as a long row of residential buildings with walls lined with colored tiles called “azuleijos”, have been preserved.
9. Oaxaca is located in the southeast of the country, and the city is also the capital of the state of the same name. This city was founded in 1532 by Spanish settlers who arrived here after Hernan Cortes. The special charm of Oaxaca lies in the combination of Indian traditions and colonial luxury. The city is also famous for the fact that it is the center of the production of "Mescal" - a special type of tequila, which can be tasted here at every step.
10. Merida is the capital of the state of Yucatan. The city was founded in 1542 on the site of the ruins of one of the Mayan cities. Merida is best known for having one of the best national markets in Mexico. It is here that tourists can buy a hammock for every taste and color (huge family hammocks, hammocks for one and two, colored and dazzling white are offered). It is worth noting that all of them are of excellent quality.

Please note that Monday is generally a public holiday for all theatres, museums and venues archaeological sites in Mexico and large quantity historical sites are open to tourists only until 17:00. And given the daily influx of tourists and the hot sun, better time for Mexican sightseeing - early in the morning!

Mexico is a vibrant country in North America, which is famous for its hospitality, love for foreigners and fun holidays.
Mexicans are very friendly and cheerful, it is customary for them to greet even strangers on the streets or transport, so feel free to get to know each other and make friends!
The peculiarity of this state is that the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations existed and survived here.

After reading this text, you will learn about the sights of Mexico, as well as see beautiful photos With detailed descriptions most memorable places.

The main architectural sights of Mexico

• Palace of Fine Arts is an amazing opera house that adorns the center of the capital of Mexico. It is believed that this is the largest building in the world. In addition, the Palace of Fine Arts tops the list of the most important attractions in Mexico. Inside the Palace is decorated with incredible frescoes by famous Mexican artists. So, for example, the most famous fresco in the Palace of Fine Arts is painting by Diego Rivera "Man at the Crossroads".
• House of Dolls- This is a pompous and very interesting building, which is located in the heart of Puebla. The building received such an unusual name because of the unusual design: according to the architect's idea, it is lined with red slabs and decorated with images of human figures that resemble dolls.
• Atzompa Archaeological Zone for a long time it was not explored by people and was hidden from the civilized world. Now, when this place is the property of Mexico. a lot of myths and legends have accumulated around it. So, the Mexicans believe that Atsomp was founded by the Indians from Monte Alban. To date archaeological zone Atzompa actively receives tourists and holds exciting excursions, allowing you to learn more deeply all the ins and outs of Mexican history.

Palace of Fine Arts

House of Dolls

A small list of the main attractions in Mexico that will interest you:

• House Azulezos(Mexico City);
• doll house(Puebla);
• Azteca Stadium(Mexico City);
• basilica Mother of God Guadalupe(Mexico City);

• Chapultepec Palace(Mexico City);
• Aqueduct(Morelia);
• Tenochtitlan(Mexico City);
• Bullring(Tijuana).

Museums in Mexico

Admirers of 20th century painting will get great pleasure if they visit the amazing Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City. Frida Kahlo is a bright representative of modernism and the pride of Mexican culture. This museum was opened in the artist Frida's own house after her death. Here she grew up, survived the most difficult years of her life and even hosted Leon Trotsky himself, who is especially loved in Mexico.
The museum contains unique expositions: personal belongings of the artist, books, letters, sketches of drawings, sketchbooks, clay figurines that Frida collected with her husband Diego Rivera.
Of course, the house-museum houses paintings by Frida Kahlo: unusual, naive, sincere, filled with happiness and pain.

Address: Mexico City, Londres 247, Col. Del Carmen, Coyoacan.

National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City is rightly considered the most popular museum in Mexico. The museum consists of two fairly large departments: on the first floor there is an anthropological section, and on the second - an ethnographic section. Very rare historical artifacts are stored here. The National Museum of Anthropology contains exhibits from the time of the ancient Maya.

If you want to take a picture of the museum’s expositions as a keepsake, then you don’t have to worry, the administration allows visitors to take amateur photographs (it is forbidden to take pictures with a flash!). For 45 MXN you will even be allowed to film tours of the museum on video. You can buy audiobooks with the excursion program for 75 MXN if you wish.

There is a cafe on the ground floor of the museum where you can relax and gain strength to continue your journey. In addition, in this museum, visitors are given the opportunity to purchase copies of all the exhibits in a special store, which is also located on the ground floor.

The cost of one ticket is 65 MXN.
Every Sunday, all tourists are allowed to visit the National Museum of Anthropology for free!

Templo Mayor is a unique, incomparable museum under open sky which is located in Mexico City. Here you can see a huge number of historical exhibits telling about the life of ancient peoples; Learn how the Aztecs and Mayans ran their household. In the hall of flora and fauna, you can even look at the remains of ancient fish, animals and plants.

The cost of one ticket is 64 MXN.

Do not miss the opportunity to visit these interesting Mexican museums:

• House-Museum of Leon Trotsky(Mexico City);
• Mexico City Museum;
• Interactive Economy Museum(Mexico City);

• Museum wax figures (Tijuana);
• House Museum of Talavera Uriarte(Puebla);
• Historical Naval Museum(Puerto Vallarta).

Popular resort towns in Mexico

If you are traveling in Mexico and do not yet know where it is better to go on vacation, you can use our top resort towns this country.

1.cancun- one of the largest. It has a very mild and pleasant climate. Cancun has a huge number of beaches that look as enticing and beautiful as on the desktop screen saver of a typical office worker dreaming of a vacation. With the Ruta1 and Ruta2 buses, you can easily get to any public beach (admission is free).

In this amazing city, you can take a leisurely stroll through romantic island Women, spend the evening in amazing restaurants, tasting exotic dishes. Here you will find yourself in paradise for a while!
Cancun is not only wonderful tourist town, but also a bright and unforgettable attraction of sunny Mexico.

For those who have not yet compiled their travel itinerary and do not know what to see in Mexico in Cancun, we suggest using our small list:

• Akumal caves;
• Las Perlas beach;
• Ruins of El Rey;
• Fabulous underground river Sak Aktun;

• Chak Mol beach;
• Do not miss the opportunity to see with your own eyes the monument to Yuri Knorozov(this is a Russian scientist who studied the writing of the ancient Maya).

2.campeche- a bright and unforgettable attraction. This is a very mysterious, mysterious and colorful city, which was once a port point for pirates. Therefore, at the local festivals you can often meet people dressed as various folk heroes, including pirates.
Over the past few years, tourism in Campeche has increased largely due to the rare attractions of this city:

• Calakmul - the ancient city of the Maya;
• Temple of Etzna;

• Rio Bec Monument;
• Chikanna - Mayan ruins.

3. Another unforgettable attraction in Mexico - Merida is one of the oldest cities in the country. IN ancient times This city was the cultural center of the Mayan tribe.
Merida is located on the Yucatan Peninsula, where henequen is actively grown. It is a favorite of many tourists and a very popular city. On main square Merida is located the Cathedral of San Ildefonso - an amazing architectural heritage.

• Ateneo Yucatan Museum of Contemporary Art;
• Palace of the Palacio de Gobierno;

• Boulevard Paseo de Montejo;
• House of Francisco de Montejo, who is considered one of the founders of the city.

4. Another interesting attraction in Mexico - Cozumel. Cozumel is a large Mexican island on which resort town San Miguel. Although the island is practically undeveloped, but at first glance it seems that it is all filled with houses, roads, eateries. The island of Cozumel is famous for its coral reefs and amazing underwater world. Frequent guests of the island are divers and scuba divers.
Tourists who find themselves in Cozumel for the first time should know that there are no beaches within the city. It is also advisable to rent a car if you are not a big fan of boats or yachts, since in the absence of personal transport you will have to travel around the island on the water.

5. The next resort town and a bright landmark of Mexico - Tulum. "City of Dawn" - the ancient Maya called Tulum.
The architecture of Tulum is fully consistent with the typical style of Mayan cities: a huge number of towers, powerful stone buildings, pompous stairs and columns.
Here is the amazing Temple of Frescoes and the famous House of the Descending God in literature.
This is a very popular city, where hundreds of tourists come every day to learn more about the history of Mexico.

6.costa maya- it's picturesque cruise port. It is located on the small island of Yucatan, where it takes cruise ships. There are quite a few people here, there are no settlements, so if you want to hide from the city noise, relax, soak up the beach, then Costa Maya is what you need.
Despite the fact that Costa Maya in Mexico is quite a deserted and small place, however, even here there are very interesting sights that every self-respecting traveler should visit:

• The ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Chakchoben;
• Remains of the ancient Mayan city of Kohunlich;
• The ruins of the abandoned cities of the ancient Maya Dzibanche and Kinichkhna.

Tulum

costa maya

7. If you have not decided where else you would like to go in sunny Mexico, then grab your suitcase and go to the resort city ​​of Monterrey. It is located in the state of Nuevo Leon. Previously, Indians lived in this area, which makes this place even more interesting.
Monterrey is an unforgettable and very impressive city in Mexico, and here too there are many attractions that will surprise and fascinate you, here are some of them:

Chichen Itza, Akumal, diving with turtles, Coba, Yucatan, XPLOR park, beaches, prices, in general - the most useful information. Enjoy watching!

Where to go with kids in Mexico

- Wonderland! In this atmospheric country, you will feel happy, because there are so many heavenly places that we often see on TV screens.

The sights of Mexico demonstrate the rich historical heritage of the country. It gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the times of ancient civilizations such as the Maya, the Aztecs. What to see in Mexico — you ask. In a nutshell, you can’t say it, it’s better to get acquainted with the rating of local beauties.

What to see in Mexico first?

In this country, a mixture of Spanish, Indian and Caribbean culture. This means that the trip here will be remembered for a lifetime, and you, for your part, try to get maximum pleasure and benefit. Moving on to the main thing, what are the main attractions worth seeing?

1. Mexico City Cathedral

Located in the heart of the country, the temple is so majestic that no one can pass by it. The high basilica is visible even from afar, and from different sides. Separately, I would like to say about the ringing of bells, it cannot be confused with any other sound. At one time, the cathedral was built in honor of the Most Holy Theotokos, and it took the place of an unremarkable monastery that could not accommodate all believers. Tourists who have already been to Mexico City note that seeing the temple from the outside is not enough to fully appreciate its grandeur. Looking into the inner halls, which anyone can do, you will definitely be left impressed.

2. Chichen Itza

This landmark of Mexico is a grandiose center of the Maya-Toltec civilization in the form of one of the largest ancient cities. It is unique in that it demonstrates how the ancient peoples represented the universe, the world. The locality itself is listed world heritage, and the pyramid of Kukulkan, which is located on its territory, belongs to the wonders of the world. There are also preserved various household items, statues of gods, a sacred well 50 m deep, in some places there are even rock paintings.

3. Chapultepec Palace

It is deservedly considered the most famous in all of North America, and it is known for being the place of the former residence of governors, presidents of the country, and emperors. The initiator of its foundation was former king Bernard de Galvez. During the construction process, it became clear that the state did not have enough funds, it was decided to sell the castle under the hammer. The result was achieved in 1806, the administration of Mexico City became the buyer. When the building was completed, it housed a military academy. Nowadays, there are guided tours, they are organized every day, according to reviews , not tiring.

4. National Museum of Anthropology

It is considered the most famous not only in the capital, but throughout the state. The described attraction of Mexico is still considered one of the most visited, because at least 2 million tourists come to see it every year. The museum itself includes 2 main departments. The first floor contains the anthropological section, the second ethnographic. Each floor has 11 exhibition halls. Many include a visit to this museum, because it acquaints guests of the country with the life of the ancient peoples that once existed on its territory.

5. Copper Canyon

This is a Mexican national park, which is often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States. It is really worth getting there, because it amazes with deep dangerous gorges in the middle of a hot desert, picturesque rivers. It is interesting to know that the canyon got its name due to the fact that its slopes are overgrown with greenish moss, which at one time the Spaniards mistook for copper. The description says that at the tops and bottom of a narrow valley, the air temperature varies due to large elevation changes. A third of all mammals in Mexico live in this area, as well as many birds, there are also enough plants here.

6. Acapulco

This is the name of one of the port cities of the country, which became famous far beyond its borders due to the presence of picturesque bays, an abundance of ancient sights. The trip there promises to be interesting, because the settlement is rich in places for entertainment, such as clubs, bars. Acapulco is located in the southeast of the country, namely in the bay of the same name, stretching along the Pacific coast. What to see in Mexico, namely in Acapulco? Attention deserves the castle "Peace Chapel", historical Museum, Papagayo Park, Cathedral. If you are traveling with children, then you should visit the Acapulco Magico water park.

Feel the atmosphere of Mexico in this beautiful video!

7. Pyramids of Teotihuacan

The attraction of Mexico is located in the most ancient city, and in the entire western hemisphere of the planet Earth. Its remains are located about 40-60 km from the capital of the state, and the name literally translates as "the place where people become gods." According to the assumptions of scientists, the city was founded by the Indians, which took place in the period 100-500 AD. The rating of this place just rolls over, because it is a huge archaeological complex, which includes such famous buildings as the Pyramid of the Sun, the Moon. The city itself has a temperate climate.

8. Xcaret Park

Name translated park zone means "small bay", which perfectly describes the place. It is located on the Caribbean coast of the country. The official description says that once an architect purchased land on which he wanted to build a house for his family. In the process of its preparation, failures were discovered, it was found that they were formed due to the collapse of the vaults of limestone caves. The presence of underground rivers was also noted. After some thought, the architect decided with his friends not to build a house, but to open a park. Today, monuments of ancient culture flaunt there, magnificent beaches. A feature is the tropical nature, animals that live almost in the wild. Keep in mind that bright evening performances are often organized in the park with the participation of professional artists, they are dedicated to historical topics.

9. Cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula

This landmark of Mexico is amazing formations natural origin. The secret is that the entire peninsula is riddled with underground rivers, lakes, and from the inside. It is customary to call cenotes naturally formed wells and tunnels that contain clear water. Such areas are obtained when limestone soils fail. It is believed that if you dive into the cenote, you can swim out into the open sea.

10 Mescaltitan Island

The name of this attraction in Mexico is translated as "abounding with mezcal". According to the latest data, a little more than 800 people inhabit the land island. The legend says that at one time the Aztecs left it in order to find a better place to live. The island itself is located in a swampy area, and its diameter does not even exceed 400 m. When reviewing, I would like to note that from August to September, which is the rainy season, the village literally turns into Venice. On the streets filled with water, you can only move by boat. positive feature small town is the complete absence of crime.

11. Palace of Fine Arts

This is available in many countries, not an exception is Mexico. Recommendations from this place are positive, not surprising, because this is one of the main symbols of the capital. The interior space is mainly occupied by concert halls. opera house, which means that in the palace you can enjoy opera and ballet performances performed by local artists. The photos will turn out great, no doubt, because the interior decoration of the majestic building is simply amazing.

12. Palenque

Don't know what to see in Mexico in 1 day? We offer you the largest ruins of one of the most ancient cities, they are located in the north-east of the state of Chiapas. These are hundreds of buildings located on a total area of ​​15 km2. To date, only a part of it has been possible to study and restore as much as possible. There is also modern Palenque, it is located a few kilometers to the east. The history and culture of this place is very interesting, many people know about it, it is worth using their services.

13. Mayan city of Tulum

This point was also once inhabited by the ancient Maya, and it was erected in the pre-Columbian era. Throughout the coastline, this city is considered well preserved. Travelers from America and England were the first to tell about it, which happened in 1843. A little later, studies were carried out, during which it was possible to determine the approximate date of the city's emergence. By the end of the 16th century, it gradually became empty and was completely abandoned by the inhabitants. Now the city is open to guests of the country, it is included in the list of the best attractions.

14. San Francisco de Campeche

The city is the capital of the state of Campeche and administrative center municipality of the same name. Previously, it was an ordinary Mayan settlement, but after its capture by the conquistadors, it was given the status of an important center in the transport industry. Due to the fact that trade developed in the city, he quickly became rich, which allowed the construction of more than a thousand buildings of magnificent design in pastel shades, the style was chosen as baroque. They have been preserved to this day. As you can see, there are no problems with where to go in Mexico, there are enough interesting and beautiful places.

15. Museum of Underwater Sculptures

This attraction of Mexico will definitely appeal to divers. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that numerous sculptures are installed at the bottom of the Caribbean Sea. You must wear scuba gear to visit the museum. special equipment you will be able to enjoy only a small part of the beautiful creation of art. To date, under water, namely at a depth of 8-10 m, 403 voluminous works of art have been collected. It seems that civilization has suddenly gone to the bottom. This is one of the best places what to visit in mexico.

Attractions in Mexico: what else to visit in Mexico?

There are enough interesting places on the territory of the United Mexican States, if you plan your trip correctly, you will not lose sight of anything important. Do not forget about hotels in Mexico, you can book rooms using online services, but verified ones.

16. Island of Dead Dolls

Its area is small, but despite this, it attracts a lot of attention. Don't know what else to see in Mexico? If you are one of the horror lovers, then you Dead island dolls, where all the trees are hung with them. It cannot be said that this landmark of Mexico was created by a fully adequate person. The author of the idea was a hermit who lived on the island. Once in the river, he found a doll, as it turned out, it belonged to a drowned girl. Since then, he began to collect toys and hang them around the island. Keep in mind, this is just a legend.

17. Giant Crystal Cave

This Mexican attraction has natural origin. It is no exaggeration to say that it is unique. It is an interweaving of huge transparent crystals of selenite, and they reach simply incredibly huge sizes. There is no doubt about the beauty and uniqueness of the cave, and it was discovered in 2000, during the study of a new drained passage. Studies have shown that selenite crystals began to form half a million years ago.

18. Cancun

What to visit in Mexico? Of course, the ideal resort with white sandy beaches, turquoise water, palm trees with emerald tops. By the way, from the window of the plane, Cancun looks like a seven, a kind of squiggle. At the resort, you can not only sunbathe on the beach, but also fish, shop, dive, and spend time in spas with benefit. Tourists are waiting for walks through the jungle, swimming with turtles and much more.

19. Xplor Amusement Park

Do you like outdoor activities and extreme sports? Prefer not to sit still? Then Xplor will become perfect place great pastime. What to see in Mexico, namely in the amusement park? There you don’t need to look, but do: fly on a bungee, swim in underground river, ride a jeep through the caves. This is far from a complete list. extreme entertainment, during the rest you can still enjoy real Mexican cuisine. You can get to your destination from any hotel in the coastal tourist area of ​​the Riviera Maya.

20. House Museum of Leon Trotsky

At one time it was a haven for a revolutionary figure of the 20th century, concurrently he was the head of the Red Army, a political figure. There he spent the last months of his life. In 1990, the official opening of the museum took place, and now there is also a public library. The politician managed to keep his personal belongings intact, the same applies to the chicken coop in which Trotsky bred poultry. It is worth paying attention to the wall with traces of bullets that remained after the first unsuccessful attempt on Leo. The revolutionary and his wife are buried in the yard, now it looks like a garden.

The exposition of the Mexican National Anthropological Museum is dedicated to the origin and history of ancient pre-Hispanic civilizations. Among the exhibits of the museum are a stone on which thousands of people were sacrificed, the treasures of the tomb of the great king Pacal, huge sculptures of Atlanteans from Tula, monuments dedicated to the gods of water and much more.

Basilica of the Blessed Virgin of Guadalupe

Every year on December 12, two million pilgrims from all states come to the capital of Mexico for two days to visit the temple of Maria de Guadalupe. According to Mexican legend, it was here, on Tepeyac Hill, that in 1531 the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to a simple Indian, Juan Diego.

Museums of Frida Kahlo and Leon Trotsky

The blue house in the colonial area of ​​Koyokane, where the artist lived from birth to death, accurately preserved the atmosphere created by his extravagant mistress. A few blocks away is the house-museum of Leon Trotsky, with whom Frida and her husband Diego Rivera were friends.

Zocalo and Templo Mayor

Constitution Square in Mexico City (also known unofficially as the Zocalo) is one of the largest areas in the world and is located in the historic center of the city. Surrounded by the Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, decorated with frescoes by the famous Mexican artist Diego Rivera. Palacio National Square is located near the ritual center of the Aztecs, where the Templo Mayor pyramid used to be, which is not only a museum, but also an archaeological site.

Teotiukan

50 km northeast of the center of Mexico City are the ruins of the ancient city Mesoamerica - Teotihuacan, which in the VI century was inhabited by about 200 thousand inhabitants. Then Teotihuacan was the most big city in the world and influenced the development and culture of other pre-Hispanic civilizations. The list of its attractions includes: the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, the Street of Death, the Temple of the Feathered Serpent with an ornament in the form of huge snake heads, etc. Teotihuacan means "the place where the gods are born", or "the place of apotheosis". The cited passage from the magnificent Nahuatl text confirms the versions that existed during the time of the Conquista, that from ancient times there was a tradition that the first gods, the Sun and the Moon, were created in Teotihuacan.

Xochimilco

Xochimilco, located in the south of modern Mexico City, where floating island-gardens - chinampas - have been preserved since ancient times, are the only water channels of the pre-Spanish city of Tenochtitlan built by the Aztecs, where you can get acquainted with the main craft of this entire zone - the cultivation of flowers and plants.

Xochimilco is a quiet and peaceful area, full of rustic flavor, it is in stark contrast to the noisy neighborhoods in the central part of the city.

In the middle of the main square rises the magnificent temple of San Bernardino, part of the fortified Franciscan monastery (end of the 16th century). The facade of the church is designed in a classical style with baroque elements. Behind the altar partition are decorated with paintings and sculptures depicting saints and apostles. Others, behind the altar panels, feature magnificent colonial-era paintings by such prominent painters as Cristobal de Villalpando and Juan Correa.

Cuernavaca

It is the capital and largest city in the state of Morelos. Connects to Mexico City by rail and highway. Cuernavaca is a major Mexican tourism center. The Teopansolco pyramid with the ruins of two temples reminds of the Aztecs, the palace of Cortes (XVI century, frescoes by D. Riviera) reminds of the conquistadors. Churches of the 16th-18th centuries have been preserved. In the XX century. in the city, a majestic reinforced concrete “Monument” was erected by the architects G. Rossel and Mu de la Rosa.

puebla

Puebla Big City in Mexico, 110 km southeast of Mexico City. An important cultural, scientific and economic center of the country. Puebla is also considered the "cradle of the Mexican Baroque" in both architecture and decorative arts, and one of the five most important colonial cities in Mexico. Historical and cultural value Puebla is one of the main reasons why it was chosen as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Various architectural styles such as baroque, classical and renaissance are represented here in over 5,000 buildings. The historic center of the city is filled with magnificent churches, monasteries and mansions in colonial style, whose facades are decorated with talavera ceramic tiles, typical for this region.

The city is also famous for its cuisine and is considered the gastronomic capital of the country. It is believed that it was here that "Mole (Mole)" - the famous Mexican hot sauce was invented.

Known as the "City of Angels" and is the capital of the state of the same name. Main attractions: The Cathedral, churches and squares, the Talavera craft - the tree of life (paintings on the bark with a bizarre design of onyx and marble), the national parks of La Malinche, Itza Popo, etc. The historical center of Puebla is listed as a cultural heritage of mankind.

Taxco

Listed as one of the Magic Cities of Mexico. The silver capital of the world is located in southern region, 151 km south of Mexico City. It is unique in the beauty of its architecture and is considered one of the most picturesque cities in Mexico. Main attractions: Santa Prisca Cathedral, Humboldt and Borda houses-museums, colonial art and silver, national park with sonmi and oaks, etc. Silver City, located three hours from the capital of Mexico, is widely known as the "souvenir city". That's how it's advertised. And indeed, as a memorable gift, you take away from Taxco in the soul of its beauty, and in addition, a creation made of silver is a must. No one remembers when silversmithing was born here. At least in the 16th century, when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico, this craft was already practiced in Taxco. And no wonder: generous deposits of silver were discovered in the vicinity of the city. ABOUT natural resources this area was known as early as the time of the Aztec ruler Moctezuma. There were legends that the local Indians paid tribute to the ruler with gold bars. When these rumors reached the conqueror of the Aztec state, Hernan Cortes, he urgently sent his soldiers there. The Spanish conquistadors did not find gold, but brought Cortes no less good news about the rich deposits of silver. Then, by order of the leader of the Spaniards, the first mine, called the Royal, was built here. The current Taxco grew up around her.

Tepoztlan

A town in the Mexican state of Morelos. The mythical homeland of the god Quetzalcoatl, a mystical place with amazing energy, beautiful scenery. Tepoztlan is one of the most popular places weekend getaway for residents of Mexico City. From the capital, it’s only an hour’s drive here (from the east or southern bus station). There is even a clear linguistic division: the indigenous aborigines who were born and raised here are called “tepostekos”, and those who rent housing (poets, artists and psychics tend to live here for a long time) are called “tepostisos” There is something to see in Tepoztlan. For starters, an Augustinian monastery (1560-88) with frescoes and an archaeological museum. During the revolutionary extravaganza of Zapata (1910-19), the monastery was used by the rebels as a fortress, and there are traces of shelling. The arch leading to the monastery from the side of the market, according to the Mexican tradition, is painted with a small-town patriotic mural (Aztecs, conquista and modernity with local specifics). Mu-ral, by the way, is updated every year. Then it is worth climbing the hill closest to the village, to the temple of the god pulque Tepoztecatl. It was built in the XIII-XIV centuries in the form of a pyramid on a platform 10 meters high.

Tula

Tula - ancient capital Toltecs, one of the main pre-Columbian cultures of Mesoamerica. It is often identified with mythical city Tollan. Archaeological complex, the ancient capital of the Toltecs, located 65 kilometers northwest of Mexico City. The most famous of the surviving structures is the Pyramid of the Morning Star, on the platform of which stands a group of five-meter stone warriors who once carried the roof of the temple.

Palenque

Perhaps the most beautiful archaeological zone, which is part of a national park in the northeast of the Mexican state of Chiapas, the political and cultural center of the Maya in the 3rd-8th centuries. Palenque at first sight captivates with an unusually beautiful location. A few meters behind the pyramids and the extraordinary palace rise mountains covered with dense greenery. The virgin forest declares itself everywhere. The back walls of the Palenque buildings rest against the Tumbol Mountains (one of the spurs of the Central American Cordilleras). From the side of the facades of buildings, from the doors of palaces and shrines opens great view on an endlessly green carpet - on a sea of ​​impenetrable forests that stretches 130 kilometers and ends at a real sea - Gulf of Mexico. In the official part of the city there are many buildings that had great importance in the social and religious life of the Maya Indians: the Pyramid (or temple) of the Inscriptions, the palace, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Count, the Temple of the Skulls, the Temple of the Cross, the Temple of the Prosperous Cross, the field for the ball game.

Uxmal- the pearl of the architecture of the Mayan civilization. The name of this city sounded before as Osh-Mal, "built three times." The time of foundation and ancient history so far unknown. Uxmal is one of the cultural and political centers of the ancient Maya in the Yucatan Peninsula. The main attraction of Uxmal is the Wizard's Pyramid, which rises 37 meters above the ground and is crowned with a temple.

According to legend, the pyramid was built in one night by a powerful dwarf wizard, who after that became the ruler of Uxmal. Behind the temple of the Wizard (to the west of it) on a hill is the so-called Convent. All buildings are made up of small rooms, total number which is equal to 74. When the first Europeans (and these were Spanish monks) saw these rooms, they mistook them for cells, and the buildings themselves for a monastery. Hence the name - the Convent. Another attraction is the Turtle House, which got its name from the ornament along the top of the building, made in the form of turtles.

Chichen Itza

Political and Cultural Center Maya in the north of the Yucatan Peninsula. holy city Itza people, located 120 km. East of the city of Merida, the capital of the Yucatan. "The well of the Itza tribe" - this is how the name sounds in translation from the language local residents. The city was founded presumably in the VI-VII centuries AD. e. The choice of location was influenced by two large, never-drying sources of drinking water. At the end of the 10th century, Chichen Itza was captured by the Toltecs and turned it into their capital. Main attractions: Despite the age stone structures many of them have been preserved in very good condition. The special pride of Chichen Itza is the pyramid of Kukulkan, on top of which is located ancient temple. Four steep stairs lead to it, ninety-one steps in each. No less interesting is the Temple of Warriors. It is based on a four-level pyramid, and in front of it is a platform with four rows of stone columns depicting Toltec warriors. Sacrificial platforms and the "Well of Death" testify to the fact that in Chichen Itza it was common to sacrifice people. Chichen Itza is recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site.

Mexico is a country located on the mainland North America. It is famous among tourists different countries with its ancient culture, superb Caribbean beaches and unique jungle animals.

Mexico is amazing and mysterious. Its sights are diverse, so the traveler will definitely not be bored: Mayan Indian settlements, crocodile farms, an amusement park, rafting on an underground river - all this is at your service.

These pyramids are world famous. Created such amazing structures in the Valley of Mexico, the Aztecs, around 100 AD. e. From the capital of Mexico, they are located at a distance of only 40 km. There are several ancient pyramids here, but the main among them is the Pyramid of the Sun. There is also the Pyramid of the Serpent, the Moon and others. Many consider Teotihuacan to be the calling card of the country.

National Anthropological Museum

The Anthropological Museum is located in Mexico City. It includes archaeological and ethnographic sections. His collection is very impressive. Pre-Columbian items are stored here, for example, the famous Aztec calendar and archeological finds belonging to various Mexican tribes.

cenotes

Cenotes are the natural attractions of Mexico in the Yucatan. These are 50 meter limestone wells. natural origin, often with water inside. The Indians used them to replenish their water supplies and make sacrifices. They considered these deep wells sacred and called them "the gates to the Kingdom of the Dead". Today, some Yucatán cenotes are used for diving by divers, and you can even swim in them by going down the stairs.

This is one of the highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula. "City of Dawn" is a building of the Mayan civilization. Tulum is surrounded by a high wall. Of all the buildings closest to the coast is the temple-fortress of El Castillo. It is assumed that this ancient lighthouse. The Temple of Frescoes is also interesting for inspection. In addition to the ruins, tourists can visit the Indian village of Tulum Pueblo, as well as the tourist and entertainment area on the coast.

Xcaret Park

This famous Mexican amusement park located in Cancun covers an area of ​​80 hectares. It is also the "home" of many wild animals. Here tourists will find several beaches, a turtle farm, an aquarium, a butterfly park, an excursion along the underground river. Historical performances are held every evening. The park has everything for children and adults.

Copper Canyon National Park

A group of six canyons in the Mexican state of Chihuahua enjoys constant popularity among tourists. They are amazing and not a real spectacle. The name comes from their greenish-copper color. The most comfortable way to tour this place is a trip along railway from Chihuahua to Al Pacifico. In the park you will meet the highest waterfalls in Mexico. Rock climbers from different countries love to climb in these places. An ancient Indian settlement is located in the park.

Palenque

An archaeological site in the state of Chiapas is the ruins of an ancient Mayan city. Tourists are attracted by the mystery and mystical power of this place: tombs, temples, ancient ruins. Inside the palace, you can see preserved paintings, stucco and sculptures.

Guanajuato

This is the most beautiful city in Mexico and the capital of the namesake state, only about 400 km from Mexico City. The name of the city is translated as "place of frogs". This animal is a local symbol. The city is built on a very hilly terrain and this adds a certain charm to it. The uniqueness of Guanajuato is given by underground tunnels and beautiful colonial buildings.