Cuernavaca is a central geographic point from which many tourist attractions can easily be reached. There are numerous visitor attractions. Most popular are: **The Zocalo (Main Plaza/Square) - Old Colonial architecture - ** Hernan Cortes Palacio/Museum - Teopanzolco Pyramids - El Castillito Historic Photo Museum - Barranca Amanalco (Ravine Amanalco) - Ethnobotanical Garden & Museum - **Xochicalco Pyramids - Ocotepec Cemetery - Mummified bodies found in a convent - Las Estacas Balneario (Jungle Water park / Tarzan filmed here) - **"Taxco" the world's Silver City - **Water Fall - **Cacahuamilpa Caves - El Popo the live & usually snow capped Volcano - Spas/Massages - **The Borda house & Museum - **The Brady house - **Cathedral - Many Museums - **The Trout Restaurant built on the Mountain Side - Lake Tequesquitengo (With Water sports & popular Ship-Disco-Restaurant Lake Tour) - A Unique open-air church - **Plantation (Hacienda) converted to 4 star Hotel - Malinalco (Pyramids, Trout & Exotic Birds) - Beautiful flowers - Authentic Mexican food everywhere - Natural hot & cold mineral water Springs(Balnearios) - Ceramics / Pottery - and more ....
(I recommend you not miss the attractions marked with **) .
- SEE EXPLANATIONS OF EACH BELOW -
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"ZOCALO" / MAIN PLAZA / Downtown...
10.9 km or (6.8 mi x 2 = 13.6 Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos Sur/Benito Juarez)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xavHkAk2hQY
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=cuernavaca+Zocalo&fr=my-myy&toggle=1&cop=&ei=UTF-8
Zocalo
Zocalo & JardÌn Morelos (side by side)
Location: Centro Historico
The only zocalo in Mexico which does not feature a Cathedral. The Zocalo is the social heart of the city. Here you will view magnificent colonial architecture - including the Plaza de Armas, and Palacio de Gobierno, and Palacio de Cortes, now housing the Museo Cuauhnahuac.
Most nights of the week you can enjoy dancers, musicians, acrobats and a lot of locals who use the plaza by day and night as a place to hang out, meet friends and be entertained by local artists and entertainers. The square and adjacent area is full of street vendors selling everything from bead work to hot dogs, fresh fruit juices, corn on a stick and tacos.
Also from here, catch the Tren TurÌstico, a trolley-like vehicle which offers driving tours by Cuernavaca historical sights. A table with tourist information can usually be found in the zocalo.
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=cuernavaca+Zocalo&fr=my-myy&toggle=1&cop=&ei=UTF-8
Zocalo
Zocalo & JardÌn Morelos (side by side)
Location: Centro Historico
The only zocalo in Mexico which does not feature a Cathedral. The Zocalo is the social heart of the city. Here you will view magnificent colonial architecture - including the Plaza de Armas, and Palacio de Gobierno, and Palacio de Cortes, now housing the Museo Cuauhnahuac.
Most nights of the week you can enjoy dancers, musicians, acrobats and a lot of locals who use the plaza by day and night as a place to hang out, meet friends and be entertained by local artists and entertainers. The square and adjacent area is full of street vendors selling everything from bead work to hot dogs, fresh fruit juices, corn on a stick and tacos.
Also from here, catch the Tren TurÌstico, a trolley-like vehicle which offers driving tours by Cuernavaca historical sights. A table with tourist information can usually be found in the zocalo.
PALACIO DE CORTES Y MUSEO DE CUAUHNAHUAC / Downtown
10.9 km or (6.8 mi x 2 = 13.6 Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos Sur/Benito Juarez)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qIOdvFutlg&list=PL88C6EC34DBC1D579
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoYC7N8BPQn8AjUOJzbkF?p=PAlacio+de+cortes&fr=my-myy&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&y=Search
Location Leyva 100 Centro Historico. Fee required. Open: Tuesday thru Sunday from 9:00 to 17:00 hrs.
The palacio with 16 halls is the former residence of conquistador Hernan Cortes. Construction started in 1530 on the site of a Tlahuica Indian ceremonial center and was finished by the conquistador's son. The palace later served as the legislative headquarters for the state of Morelos. In 1974 the palace was inaugurated as a regional museum documenting the history of the Cuernavaca area. Among items of interest are pre-Hispanic and colonial pieces, and famous murals by Diego Rivera painted in 1929 and 1930 commissioned by the then U.S. ambassador Dwight Morrow, father-in-law of the transatlantic flyer Charles Lindbergh. They depict scenes from the Conquest, the history of Cuernavaca, the War of Independence and the Mexican Revolution. The image of Emiliano Zapata leading Hernan Cortes' white horse symbolizes the people's re-appropriation of the land. Be sure to visit the museum bookstore next door to the main entrance.
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoYC7N8BPQn8AjUOJzbkF?p=PAlacio+de+cortes&fr=my-myy&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&y=Search
Location Leyva 100 Centro Historico. Fee required. Open: Tuesday thru Sunday from 9:00 to 17:00 hrs.
The palacio with 16 halls is the former residence of conquistador Hernan Cortes. Construction started in 1530 on the site of a Tlahuica Indian ceremonial center and was finished by the conquistador's son. The palace later served as the legislative headquarters for the state of Morelos. In 1974 the palace was inaugurated as a regional museum documenting the history of the Cuernavaca area. Among items of interest are pre-Hispanic and colonial pieces, and famous murals by Diego Rivera painted in 1929 and 1930 commissioned by the then U.S. ambassador Dwight Morrow, father-in-law of the transatlantic flyer Charles Lindbergh. They depict scenes from the Conquest, the history of Cuernavaca, the War of Independence and the Mexican Revolution. The image of Emiliano Zapata leading Hernan Cortes' white horse symbolizes the people's re-appropriation of the land. Be sure to visit the museum bookstore next door to the main entrance.
BORDA GARDENS - JARDIN BORDA / Downtown
10.7 km or (6.6 mi x 2 = 13.2 Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos Sur)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4olGreskTk&list=PL88C6EC34DBC1D579
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoQ62dcJPTT4A0LWjzbkF?p=the%20borda%20gardens&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&tab=organic&fr2=sg-gac&sado=1
Tues-Sun 10am-5:30pm (Sun best day)
Location: Hidalgo and Morelos, Centro Historico
Fee required
Diagonally opposite the cathedral are the gardens of Jose de la Borda, once the Taxco silver kings vacation home. Built in the late 1700s it was transformed into a botanical garden upon Borda's death in 1778. In 1865 Maximilian and Empress Carlota took it over as their private summer home, offering concerts in the gardens to nobility and other distinguished guests from around the world.
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoQ62dcJPTT4A0LWjzbkF?p=the%20borda%20gardens&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&tab=organic&fr2=sg-gac&sado=1
Tues-Sun 10am-5:30pm (Sun best day)
Location: Hidalgo and Morelos, Centro Historico
Fee required
Diagonally opposite the cathedral are the gardens of Jose de la Borda, once the Taxco silver kings vacation home. Built in the late 1700s it was transformed into a botanical garden upon Borda's death in 1778. In 1865 Maximilian and Empress Carlota took it over as their private summer home, offering concerts in the gardens to nobility and other distinguished guests from around the world.
CUERNAVACA CATHEDRAL / Downtown
10.7 km or (6.6 mi x 2 = 13.2 Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos Sur)
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0oG7kDMqr9PfSkABTBXNyoA?p=cuernavaca+cathedral&fr=my-myy&fr2=piv-web
Cuernavaca Cathedral / Catedral de la Asuncion de MarÌa
Daily 8am-2pm and 4-10pm
Location: Hidalgo and Morelos, Centro Historico
Known as la Catedral, construction for this one time Franciscan friary began in 1529, just a few years after Cortes conquered what is now known as Mexico City from the Aztec. This fortress/church was completed in 1552 and is one of the oldest churches in Mexico. Frescoes inside were discovered during refurbishing in the 1960s and they date from the 1500s. Having an Asian style, they depict the execution of St. Felipe de Jesus, Mexico's first Martyr and Saint, in Japan. Mariachi masses are held on Sundays at 11 a.m.
Cuernavaca Cathedral / Catedral de la Asuncion de MarÌa
Daily 8am-2pm and 4-10pm
Location: Hidalgo and Morelos, Centro Historico
Known as la Catedral, construction for this one time Franciscan friary began in 1529, just a few years after Cortes conquered what is now known as Mexico City from the Aztec. This fortress/church was completed in 1552 and is one of the oldest churches in Mexico. Frescoes inside were discovered during refurbishing in the 1960s and they date from the 1500s. Having an Asian style, they depict the execution of St. Felipe de Jesus, Mexico's first Martyr and Saint, in Japan. Mariachi masses are held on Sundays at 11 a.m.
ROBERT BRADY HOUSE - MUSEUM / Downtown
10.6 km or (6.6 mi x 2 = 13.2 Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos Sur)
Hours Tues-Sun 10am-6pm
Address Calle Netzahualcoyotl 4
Location between Hidalgo and Abasolo
Fee required
Robert Brady was born in the United States and after living in Venice, Italy settled in Cuernavaca in 1962. An artist and collector, his former Cuernavaca home now is a colorful private museum containing more than 1,300 works of art including pre-Hispanic and colonial pieces. Paintings by Frida Kahlo and Rufino Tamayo are on display as well as furniture and decorative arts from America, Africa, Asia, and India. The rooms in this Colonial Spanish home are as Brady left them at the time of his death in 1986. Located behind the Cathedral of Cuernavaca, the home was once part of a XVI century Franciscan Monastery.
Address Calle Netzahualcoyotl 4
Location between Hidalgo and Abasolo
Fee required
Robert Brady was born in the United States and after living in Venice, Italy settled in Cuernavaca in 1962. An artist and collector, his former Cuernavaca home now is a colorful private museum containing more than 1,300 works of art including pre-Hispanic and colonial pieces. Paintings by Frida Kahlo and Rufino Tamayo are on display as well as furniture and decorative arts from America, Africa, Asia, and India. The rooms in this Colonial Spanish home are as Brady left them at the time of his death in 1986. Located behind the Cathedral of Cuernavaca, the home was once part of a XVI century Franciscan Monastery.
SAN ANTON WATERFALL / West of Centro
12.2 km or (7.6 mi x 2 = 15.2 Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos Sur)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9tAfcgmYGc&list=PL88C6EC34DBC1D579
Salto de San Anton
Weekdays 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Location: Colonia San Anton
You will walk along a trail through lush vegetation to Salto de San Anton, a 98 foot cascading waterfall located within the western city limits of Cuernavaca in Colonia San Anton. This waterfall is fed by one of many ravines cut deep into the terrain by the constantly melting snow & Ice atop The El Popo live volcano, approximately 55 miles NE of Cuernavaca. Local rainfall increases the volume and volicity considerably.
Salto de San Anton
Weekdays 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
Location: Colonia San Anton
You will walk along a trail through lush vegetation to Salto de San Anton, a 98 foot cascading waterfall located within the western city limits of Cuernavaca in Colonia San Anton. This waterfall is fed by one of many ravines cut deep into the terrain by the constantly melting snow & Ice atop The El Popo live volcano, approximately 55 miles NE of Cuernavaca. Local rainfall increases the volume and volicity considerably.
TEOPANZOLCO PYRAMID / In the City
15.1 km or (9.4 mi x 2 = 18.8 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Plan de Ayala/Teopanzolco)
Piramide de Teopanzolco
Weekdays 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Location: Colonia de Vista Hermosa
Fee required. Open: Monday thru Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs.
More than one thousand archaeological sites have been discovered in Morelos, but only seven are open to the public. One of them is Teopanzolco, in the northern part of Cuernavaca . The importance of this ancient ceremonial center lies in the multitudinous human sacrifices that were held in the pyramid. It has other temples for Huitzilopochtli -the war God – and for Tláloc -the rain God –as well as other platforms in honor of various minor gods; it is also known as "La Casa del Diablo" or The Devil’s House.
On this site there are actually two pyramids, one inside the other. Climb up the outer base to see the older pyramid within. Several other smaller platform structures surround the double pyramid which is considered one of the most important temples of the pre-Hispanic culture in the region.
It's a mystery why It was abandoned, but today it does give us an insight into an earlier period which we may not have understood. It also gives us a glimpse into lies and intrigue that would later come to light with a shocking discovery. With the excavation of platform #3 a mass grave site was discovered here, with 92 men, women and children. Many of the bodies were mutilated, and ritual utensils were found that no doubt were a part of a sacrificial system.
Today, the main structure is the large double pyramid, built in the same style as larger pyramids in central Mexico, such as Templo Mejor (in Mexico City). You can still see where two gods were worshiped, Tlaloc in the northern temple and Huitzilopochtli in the southern. There are two stages of construction here, one was never completed.
Weekdays 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Location: Colonia de Vista Hermosa
Fee required. Open: Monday thru Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs.
More than one thousand archaeological sites have been discovered in Morelos, but only seven are open to the public. One of them is Teopanzolco, in the northern part of Cuernavaca . The importance of this ancient ceremonial center lies in the multitudinous human sacrifices that were held in the pyramid. It has other temples for Huitzilopochtli -the war God – and for Tláloc -the rain God –as well as other platforms in honor of various minor gods; it is also known as "La Casa del Diablo" or The Devil’s House.
On this site there are actually two pyramids, one inside the other. Climb up the outer base to see the older pyramid within. Several other smaller platform structures surround the double pyramid which is considered one of the most important temples of the pre-Hispanic culture in the region.
It's a mystery why It was abandoned, but today it does give us an insight into an earlier period which we may not have understood. It also gives us a glimpse into lies and intrigue that would later come to light with a shocking discovery. With the excavation of platform #3 a mass grave site was discovered here, with 92 men, women and children. Many of the bodies were mutilated, and ritual utensils were found that no doubt were a part of a sacrificial system.
Today, the main structure is the large double pyramid, built in the same style as larger pyramids in central Mexico, such as Templo Mejor (in Mexico City). You can still see where two gods were worshiped, Tlaloc in the northern temple and Huitzilopochtli in the southern. There are two stages of construction here, one was never completed.
Ocotepec Cemetery in Cuernavaca
21.8 km or (13.5 mi x 2 = 27 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Autopista)
Photo on Day of the Dead
21.8 km or (13.5 mi x 2 = 27 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Autopista)
Photo on Day of the Dead
El Castillito / In the city
11.8 km or (10 mi x 2 = 20 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos)
El Castillito (Next to Barranca Amanalco below)
Daily (hours vary) Open: Monday thru Friday from 9:00 to 15:00 hrs. Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00
Location: 1 AgustÌn Guemes Celis, Centro Historico
Resembling a small castle, and made of brick, this is home to the Photographic Museum of Cuernavaca. Inaugurated in 1986, photos exhibit part of the history and development of Cuernavaca
Daily (hours vary) Open: Monday thru Friday from 9:00 to 15:00 hrs. Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00
Location: 1 AgustÌn Guemes Celis, Centro Historico
Resembling a small castle, and made of brick, this is home to the Photographic Museum of Cuernavaca. Inaugurated in 1986, photos exhibit part of the history and development of Cuernavaca
BARRANCA AMANALCO (Ravine Amanalco) / In the City
11.8 km or (10 mi x 2 = 20 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Morelos
(Next to El Castillito above) A scenic 3 kilometers walk along a deep wooded ravine. This trail was recently conditioned as a tourist walk by the City Council of Cuernavaca. Available: Monday thru Sunday from 9:00 to 18:00 hrs.
Cuernavaca has developed an elevated trail, suspended about halfway up the canyon walls. The path begins just below - to the east of - the El Calvario church and proceeds first through a stepped garden built to resemble, symbolically, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The garden was built during the Porfiriato. Following the gardens, the path drops into the ravine proper and goes under the graceful arch of a very tall stone bridge, which was Cuernavaca's first - also built by order of Diaz. The path continues winding down through the almost jungle ravine, hanging roots drape down into the deep ravine; larger roots holding ravine walls as they descend 100 meters into the creek below. It is hard to imagine that you are in the middle of a city of a million people.
I highly recommend this attraction for the physically fit only as the steps go down deep then you must climb back up the same distance to return to the surface.
Cuernavaca has developed an elevated trail, suspended about halfway up the canyon walls. The path begins just below - to the east of - the El Calvario church and proceeds first through a stepped garden built to resemble, symbolically, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The garden was built during the Porfiriato. Following the gardens, the path drops into the ravine proper and goes under the graceful arch of a very tall stone bridge, which was Cuernavaca's first - also built by order of Diaz. The path continues winding down through the almost jungle ravine, hanging roots drape down into the deep ravine; larger roots holding ravine walls as they descend 100 meters into the creek below. It is hard to imagine that you are in the middle of a city of a million people.
I highly recommend this attraction for the physically fit only as the steps go down deep then you must climb back up the same distance to return to the surface.
ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN & MUSEUM OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE & HERBOLARIA / In the City 10 km or (6.2 mi x 2 = 12.4 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Autopista / Tabachines exit / Norciso Mendoza / Nicolas Bravo / Lopez Mateos / Mariano Matamoros)
Also known as: "La Casa de la India Bonita" or "el jardin botanico." or "El Olvido"
The Cuernavaca Ethnobotanical Garden -- at Matamoros 14, Col. Acapantzingo -- is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm and is free of charge. Guided tours are available upon request and other activities -- such as horticulture classes for kids -- are organized by the staff. By car from downtown Cuernavaca, drive south on Humboldt Street toward Col. Acapantzingo past Rufino Tamayo St. and two blocks further south is Matamoros Street
The Cuernavaca garden features the Museum of Traditional Medicine and Herbolarium, dedicated since its foundation (in 1976) to the preservation of and study of plants native to the state of Morelos (Cuernavaca is the state capital) and in Mexico in general. The museum offers well-presented displays dedicated to regional plants and flora -- with considerable emphasis on medicinal, nutritional, decorative and traditional properties and usages.
The garden grounds are of historical interest as well. The property -- then known as "El Olvido" -- was owned by Emperor Maximilian in the 1860s. There he kept an Indian mistress whom he would visit when staying in Cuernavaca, usually at "El Jardin Borda" (the Borda Gardens). The house which today houses the museum is fondly known as "La Casa de la India Bonita" (the house of the pretty Indian girl).
The simply stated goal of the Ethnobotanical Garden is to preserve, study and cultivate a comprehensive selection of plants and flowers native to the valley of Morelos, as well as other parts of Mexico. This includes some non-indigenous plants now popular in the country.
The spacious garden is entered through a small grove of trees beyond the museum. A color-coded map made of painted tiles offers useful information; the groupings of the various specimens are identified, including medicinal, decorative, xerophytes, and a section solely devoted to orchids.
Strolling through the garden need not be just a visual and aromatic experience. Most of the plants are accompanied by small signs indicating common name, indigenous (Nahuatl) name -- where applicable -- its scientific name, its botanical family, its species and some of its properties and usages.
The garden's collection of medicinal plants is regarded as the most important section. The garden directors made a commitment to the Mexican Botanical Gardens Association, agreeing to permanently preserve a comprehensive collection of the nation's medicinal flora.
Featured here is the ocotillo (chapulistle, in Nahuatl), a native shrub whose wood is used as a combustible and in the elaboration of tools. Its traditional medicinal usage was to treat circulatory and muscular problems, as well as to control fever. The Guamuchil (huamuchitl, in Nahuatl), also known as the Camachile tree is a tall, native tree which produces edible fruit. Its bark is used in traditional medicine to cleanse external wounds or ulcers.
Also here is the Ginkgo tree -- native to China and Japan -- that is cultivated in Mexico mostly for ornamental purposes, though traditional Oriental medicine makes use of its leaves.
The orchid section is also quite important and boasts an impressive array of wild Mexican orchids. Since many Mexican orchids are considered endangered species, this collection -- featuring orchids from Veracruz, Guerrero, Michoacán, the State of Mexico, as well as Morelos -- is of special significance. Each orchid is carefully cared for and monitored by the expert staff on hand. Each plant is identified only by number, instead of species, but the garden has specimens of Encyclia, Lycaste and Epidendrum cilare.
Another notable section is the xerophyte -- plants adapted for growth with limited water, such as cactus -- section. Mexico's wide variety of species (quantification necessary, i.e. world ranking or a number) include several suffering from excessive harvesting, both legal and illegal, in their natural environments. Mexico's cacti are noted for their medicinal, nutritional, decorative and industrial purposes, though information markers were lacking in this section.
The edible plant section -- the largest in the garden -- includes familiar vegetables, tropical food plants and other species cultivated as condiments. Here again, information markers -- names, properties and traditional uses, et al -- were provided. Non-native edible plants now cultivated in Mexico were also on display: i.e. the macadamia tree (Australia), the pistachio tree (Europe). Indigenous plants include the Xocoxochitl tree (native to Mesoamerica) from which black pepper is derived and whose traditional usage ranged from use in childbirth to facilitating digestion; the jicama plant (native to Mexico and Central America, too) whose root is quite delicious when eaten with lime and chile powder and was used by pre-Conquest Morelos natives to treat kidney problems and as a contraceptive.
Distributed throughout the garden and as borders to the several sections are ornamental plants, trees and shrubs. Featured are the Flor de Mayo (cacaloxochitl, in Nahuatl), a wild shrub domesticated for decorative purposes; the bird of paradise, poinsettias and a variety of lilies.
The Cuernavaca Ethnobotanical Garden -- at Matamoros 14, Col. Acapantzingo -- is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm and is free of charge. Guided tours are available upon request and other activities -- such as horticulture classes for kids -- are organized by the staff. By car from downtown Cuernavaca, drive south on Humboldt Street toward Col. Acapantzingo past Rufino Tamayo St. and two blocks further south is Matamoros Street
The Cuernavaca garden features the Museum of Traditional Medicine and Herbolarium, dedicated since its foundation (in 1976) to the preservation of and study of plants native to the state of Morelos (Cuernavaca is the state capital) and in Mexico in general. The museum offers well-presented displays dedicated to regional plants and flora -- with considerable emphasis on medicinal, nutritional, decorative and traditional properties and usages.
The garden grounds are of historical interest as well. The property -- then known as "El Olvido" -- was owned by Emperor Maximilian in the 1860s. There he kept an Indian mistress whom he would visit when staying in Cuernavaca, usually at "El Jardin Borda" (the Borda Gardens). The house which today houses the museum is fondly known as "La Casa de la India Bonita" (the house of the pretty Indian girl).
The simply stated goal of the Ethnobotanical Garden is to preserve, study and cultivate a comprehensive selection of plants and flowers native to the valley of Morelos, as well as other parts of Mexico. This includes some non-indigenous plants now popular in the country.
The spacious garden is entered through a small grove of trees beyond the museum. A color-coded map made of painted tiles offers useful information; the groupings of the various specimens are identified, including medicinal, decorative, xerophytes, and a section solely devoted to orchids.
Strolling through the garden need not be just a visual and aromatic experience. Most of the plants are accompanied by small signs indicating common name, indigenous (Nahuatl) name -- where applicable -- its scientific name, its botanical family, its species and some of its properties and usages.
The garden's collection of medicinal plants is regarded as the most important section. The garden directors made a commitment to the Mexican Botanical Gardens Association, agreeing to permanently preserve a comprehensive collection of the nation's medicinal flora.
Featured here is the ocotillo (chapulistle, in Nahuatl), a native shrub whose wood is used as a combustible and in the elaboration of tools. Its traditional medicinal usage was to treat circulatory and muscular problems, as well as to control fever. The Guamuchil (huamuchitl, in Nahuatl), also known as the Camachile tree is a tall, native tree which produces edible fruit. Its bark is used in traditional medicine to cleanse external wounds or ulcers.
Also here is the Ginkgo tree -- native to China and Japan -- that is cultivated in Mexico mostly for ornamental purposes, though traditional Oriental medicine makes use of its leaves.
The orchid section is also quite important and boasts an impressive array of wild Mexican orchids. Since many Mexican orchids are considered endangered species, this collection -- featuring orchids from Veracruz, Guerrero, Michoacán, the State of Mexico, as well as Morelos -- is of special significance. Each orchid is carefully cared for and monitored by the expert staff on hand. Each plant is identified only by number, instead of species, but the garden has specimens of Encyclia, Lycaste and Epidendrum cilare.
Another notable section is the xerophyte -- plants adapted for growth with limited water, such as cactus -- section. Mexico's wide variety of species (quantification necessary, i.e. world ranking or a number) include several suffering from excessive harvesting, both legal and illegal, in their natural environments. Mexico's cacti are noted for their medicinal, nutritional, decorative and industrial purposes, though information markers were lacking in this section.
The edible plant section -- the largest in the garden -- includes familiar vegetables, tropical food plants and other species cultivated as condiments. Here again, information markers -- names, properties and traditional uses, et al -- were provided. Non-native edible plants now cultivated in Mexico were also on display: i.e. the macadamia tree (Australia), the pistachio tree (Europe). Indigenous plants include the Xocoxochitl tree (native to Mesoamerica) from which black pepper is derived and whose traditional usage ranged from use in childbirth to facilitating digestion; the jicama plant (native to Mexico and Central America, too) whose root is quite delicious when eaten with lime and chile powder and was used by pre-Conquest Morelos natives to treat kidney problems and as a contraceptive.
Distributed throughout the garden and as borders to the several sections are ornamental plants, trees and shrubs. Featured are the Flor de Mayo (cacaloxochitl, in Nahuatl), a wild shrub domesticated for decorative purposes; the bird of paradise, poinsettias and a variety of lilies.
EX HACIENDA de Cortes (Plantation) / East side of the city
12.7 km or (7.9 mi x 2 = 15.8 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Autopista / Tabachines exit / Diaz Ordaz / Atlacamulco / Chapultepec)
http://www.hotelhaciendadecortes.com.mx/english/restaurante.php
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=HACIENDA+de+Cortes&fr=my-myy&toggle=1&cop=&ei=UTF-8
Anna said: The place is wonderful. Visting the Ex-Hacienda de Cortes is a romantic experience. In my opinion this former home of the Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes is one of the most authentic of the Mexican haciendas. Located in Cuernavaca "the city of eternal spring" makes it more special. Highly recommended by a well travelled Finnish person, Anna Ollikainen
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=HACIENDA+de+Cortes&fr=my-myy&toggle=1&cop=&ei=UTF-8
Anna said: The place is wonderful. Visting the Ex-Hacienda de Cortes is a romantic experience. In my opinion this former home of the Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes is one of the most authentic of the Mexican haciendas. Located in Cuernavaca "the city of eternal spring" makes it more special. Highly recommended by a well travelled Finnish person, Anna Ollikainen
XOCHICALCO PYRAMID CITY / South
32.6 km or (20.3 mi x 2 = 40.6 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Fed. Hwy 95 to Alpuyeca then Hwy 166,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmTNEfbbeik&list=PL88C6EC34DBC1D579
The site is open to visitors all week, from 10 am to 5 pm, although access to the observatory is only allowed after noon.
The architecture and iconography of Xochicalco show affinities with Teotihuacan, the Maya area, and the Matlatzinca culture of the Toluca Valley. Today some residents of the nearby village of Cuentepec speak Nahuatl.
The main ceremonial center is atop an artificially leveled hill, with remains of residential structures, mostly unexcavated, on long terraces covering the slopes. The site was first occupied by 200 BC, but did not develop into an urban center until the Epiclassic period (AD 700 – 900). Nearly all the standing architecture at the site was built at this time. At its peak, the city may have had a population of up to 20,000 people.
Monuments
Of special interest are sculptured reliefs on the sides of some buildings. The Temple of the Feathered Serpent has fine stylized depictions of that deity in a style which includes apparent influences of Teotihuacan and Maya art. The high taluds of the pyramid bear relief carvings that depict towns that paid tribute to Xochicalco as well as several seated figures that look Mayan.[1] It has been speculated that Xochicalco may have had a community of artists from other parts of Mesoamerica.
Other monuments at the site include several other step-pyramid temples, palaces, three ballcourts, sweat-baths, an unusual row of circular altars, and a cave with steps carved down into it. The site also has some free-standing sculptured stelae; others were removed from their original location and are now on display in the INAH museum in Mexico City and at the site museum.
History and Exploration
Xochicalco was founded in about 650 AD by the Olmeca-Xicallanca, which are a Mayan group of traders from Campeche, at a site that gave them an excellent position along several of the major Mesoamerican trade routes. The city-state had a population of 10,000 to 15,000 people, many of whom were engaged in craft production and long-distance trade. [2] It was an important fortressed commercial and religious center following the decline of the great Meso-American city states. The poor farming conditions in the area show that it was likely built for defense purposes and trading. The ruins were first described by explorer Antonio Alzate in 1777. Alexander von Humboldt published illustrations and a description of Xochicalco in 1810. Emperor Maximilian of Mexico visited the ruins. The Temple of the Feathered Serpent was restored by Mexican archaeologist Leopoldo Batres in 1910. Major archaeological excavations and further restorations were done in a project from the 1940s through the 1960s by Eduardo Noguera and César Saenz. Jaime Litvak King also worked at the site. In 1976 archaeologist Kenneth Hirth of Pennsylvania State University began a multi-season fieldwork project in which he mapped the entire site and conducted excavations of houses and obsidian workshops. In 1988 a large-scale program of excavation of monumental architecture was initiated by Norberto González Crespo and Silvia Garza of the INAH. A new museum was built to house the spectacular finds of this project.
Destruction of the city
At some point around AD 900 the city of Xochicalco was burned and destroyed. Many of the excavated houses and temples have layers of burning and destruction that cover the deposits from the main Epiclassic occupation. Underneath destruction layers, numerous objects were left in place in the houses, indicating that the site was destroyed and abandoned quickly. A small remnant population lived on, however, on the lower slopes of the hill. Later, around 1200, the site was recolonized by the Nahuatl-speaking Tlahuica peoples, ancestors to the Nahuatl-speaking populations of the modern state of Morelos.
Xochicalco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tourist destination. The site also has a well-stocked museum.
Astronomical observatory
The observatory is a cave modified to allow study of the movement of the sun. The cave was covered with stucco and painted black, yellow and red with a chimney that measured from the base to the surface 8.7 meters, and which is hexagonal in the top. The chimney has a slight slope allowing the sun's rays to be to projected on the floor of the cave.
In the 105 days running from 30 April to 15 August, the sun shines into the cave. In the sun's movement towards the Tropic of Cancer and upon their return, respectively, on 14/15 May and 28/29 July, the sun is at its zenith and the astronomical noon, the beam of light falls directly through the chimney showing the image of the sun on the floor of the cave. Surely, taking advantage of the solar phenomenon, the site was also used for religious ceremonies.
The site is open to visitors all week, from 10 am to 5 pm, although access to the observatory is only allowed after noon.
The architecture and iconography of Xochicalco show affinities with Teotihuacan, the Maya area, and the Matlatzinca culture of the Toluca Valley. Today some residents of the nearby village of Cuentepec speak Nahuatl.
The main ceremonial center is atop an artificially leveled hill, with remains of residential structures, mostly unexcavated, on long terraces covering the slopes. The site was first occupied by 200 BC, but did not develop into an urban center until the Epiclassic period (AD 700 – 900). Nearly all the standing architecture at the site was built at this time. At its peak, the city may have had a population of up to 20,000 people.
Monuments
Of special interest are sculptured reliefs on the sides of some buildings. The Temple of the Feathered Serpent has fine stylized depictions of that deity in a style which includes apparent influences of Teotihuacan and Maya art. The high taluds of the pyramid bear relief carvings that depict towns that paid tribute to Xochicalco as well as several seated figures that look Mayan.[1] It has been speculated that Xochicalco may have had a community of artists from other parts of Mesoamerica.
Other monuments at the site include several other step-pyramid temples, palaces, three ballcourts, sweat-baths, an unusual row of circular altars, and a cave with steps carved down into it. The site also has some free-standing sculptured stelae; others were removed from their original location and are now on display in the INAH museum in Mexico City and at the site museum.
History and Exploration
Xochicalco was founded in about 650 AD by the Olmeca-Xicallanca, which are a Mayan group of traders from Campeche, at a site that gave them an excellent position along several of the major Mesoamerican trade routes. The city-state had a population of 10,000 to 15,000 people, many of whom were engaged in craft production and long-distance trade. [2] It was an important fortressed commercial and religious center following the decline of the great Meso-American city states. The poor farming conditions in the area show that it was likely built for defense purposes and trading. The ruins were first described by explorer Antonio Alzate in 1777. Alexander von Humboldt published illustrations and a description of Xochicalco in 1810. Emperor Maximilian of Mexico visited the ruins. The Temple of the Feathered Serpent was restored by Mexican archaeologist Leopoldo Batres in 1910. Major archaeological excavations and further restorations were done in a project from the 1940s through the 1960s by Eduardo Noguera and César Saenz. Jaime Litvak King also worked at the site. In 1976 archaeologist Kenneth Hirth of Pennsylvania State University began a multi-season fieldwork project in which he mapped the entire site and conducted excavations of houses and obsidian workshops. In 1988 a large-scale program of excavation of monumental architecture was initiated by Norberto González Crespo and Silvia Garza of the INAH. A new museum was built to house the spectacular finds of this project.
Destruction of the city
At some point around AD 900 the city of Xochicalco was burned and destroyed. Many of the excavated houses and temples have layers of burning and destruction that cover the deposits from the main Epiclassic occupation. Underneath destruction layers, numerous objects were left in place in the houses, indicating that the site was destroyed and abandoned quickly. A small remnant population lived on, however, on the lower slopes of the hill. Later, around 1200, the site was recolonized by the Nahuatl-speaking Tlahuica peoples, ancestors to the Nahuatl-speaking populations of the modern state of Morelos.
Xochicalco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tourist destination. The site also has a well-stocked museum.
Astronomical observatory
The observatory is a cave modified to allow study of the movement of the sun. The cave was covered with stucco and painted black, yellow and red with a chimney that measured from the base to the surface 8.7 meters, and which is hexagonal in the top. The chimney has a slight slope allowing the sun's rays to be to projected on the floor of the cave.
In the 105 days running from 30 April to 15 August, the sun shines into the cave. In the sun's movement towards the Tropic of Cancer and upon their return, respectively, on 14/15 May and 28/29 July, the sun is at its zenith and the astronomical noon, the beam of light falls directly through the chimney showing the image of the sun on the floor of the cave. Surely, taking advantage of the solar phenomenon, the site was also used for religious ceremonies.
CACAHUAMILPA CAVES (GRUTAS) / South West
64.9 km or (40.4 mi x 2 = 80.8 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Fed. Hwy 95 to Puente de Ixtla then Hwy 55 N.)
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoYDBsb9P5ksAjESJzbkF?p=grutas%20de%20cacahuamilpa&fr=my-myy-s&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&fr2=sg-gac&sado=1
Cacahuamilpa is one of the largest cave systems in the world.[4] It is a "live" cave system, meaning that groundwater still filters down into it, and that the formations there are still growing.[3] Inside the cavern system are ninety large "salons" separated by large natural rock walls and connected to one another via a central gallery.[4] However, only about twenty of these are fully explored and open to the public.[8] Most of these salons are located under the Cerro de la Corona, a limestone mountain ridge. These salons average about forty meters wide,[6] and vary in height from twenty to 81 meters.[2] Most have names which reflect the major formations found in them such as the Goat Salon, the Throne Salon and the Cathedral Salon.[4] All the openings have numerous rock formations growing from both the ceiling and the floor.[4][6] One of the drier salons has been dubbed the “Auditorium”. It has a large flat floor and has been outfitted with seats. It is rented out for events,[2] and has been the site for a number of concerts including one in 2007 by Miguel Bosé[9] and one by the Acapulco Philharmonic Orchestra in 2009.[10]
Tours of the open cave system run every hour and last about two hours.[3] On the walkway to the entrance there are a couple of amate trees (Ficus insipida) with their roots wound around the rocky walls of Limontitla Canyon.[11] The entrance is a large arch about forty meters wide and twelve meters tall. From the entrance, one descends about twenty meters to the level of the caverns. The path has a mostly level cement walkway, and there is artificial illumination on both the path and parts of the salons. However, since it is a live cave, the high humidity can make the trek uncomfortable for some people.[4]
Cacahuamilpa is one of the largest cave systems in the world.[4] It is a "live" cave system, meaning that groundwater still filters down into it, and that the formations there are still growing.[3] Inside the cavern system are ninety large "salons" separated by large natural rock walls and connected to one another via a central gallery.[4] However, only about twenty of these are fully explored and open to the public.[8] Most of these salons are located under the Cerro de la Corona, a limestone mountain ridge. These salons average about forty meters wide,[6] and vary in height from twenty to 81 meters.[2] Most have names which reflect the major formations found in them such as the Goat Salon, the Throne Salon and the Cathedral Salon.[4] All the openings have numerous rock formations growing from both the ceiling and the floor.[4][6] One of the drier salons has been dubbed the “Auditorium”. It has a large flat floor and has been outfitted with seats. It is rented out for events,[2] and has been the site for a number of concerts including one in 2007 by Miguel Bosé[9] and one by the Acapulco Philharmonic Orchestra in 2009.[10]
Tours of the open cave system run every hour and last about two hours.[3] On the walkway to the entrance there are a couple of amate trees (Ficus insipida) with their roots wound around the rocky walls of Limontitla Canyon.[11] The entrance is a large arch about forty meters wide and twelve meters tall. From the entrance, one descends about twenty meters to the level of the caverns. The path has a mostly level cement walkway, and there is artificial illumination on both the path and parts of the salons. However, since it is a live cave, the high humidity can make the trek uncomfortable for some people.[4]
LAKE TEQUESQUITENGO (3110 Ft. Elev.) / South
39.2 km or (24.4 mi x 2 = 48.8 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Fed. Hwy 95 past Alpuyeca, then Zacatepec Exit toward JoJutla, in Xococotla take right fork to the lake.
Also known as The Sea of Morelos. The only lake of any size around Cuernavaca (formed in an extinct volcano's crater). It is about thirty minutes south of Cuernavaca. between the municipalities of Puente de Ixtla and Jojutla, only 48 kms. from Cuernavaca, its main access being by the Auto Pista.
In the XIX century the Mosso brothers, owners of Hacienda San Jose Vista Hermosa, built a channel and the excess water formed what is now the Lake of Tequesquitengo, submerging the original village. It is the biggest and most important lake in the state, and it is almost 5 kms. in diameter in its widest part, with a surface of 8 sq km and maximum depth of 25 meters. It is possible to see the church tower below the water in the center of the lake from a boat. Water ski, ride in motor boats, jet ski or ride a "banana." The popular ship-disco-restaurant allows one to enjoy a pleasant nautical journey around the lake. On the outskirts there is a light aircraft school, ultra lights and parachute jumping.
http://www.tourbymexico.com/morelos/teques/teques.htm
In the XIX century the Mosso brothers, owners of Hacienda San Jose Vista Hermosa, built a channel and the excess water formed what is now the Lake of Tequesquitengo, submerging the original village. It is the biggest and most important lake in the state, and it is almost 5 kms. in diameter in its widest part, with a surface of 8 sq km and maximum depth of 25 meters. It is possible to see the church tower below the water in the center of the lake from a boat. Water ski, ride in motor boats, jet ski or ride a "banana." The popular ship-disco-restaurant allows one to enjoy a pleasant nautical journey around the lake. On the outskirts there is a light aircraft school, ultra lights and parachute jumping.
http://www.tourbymexico.com/morelos/teques/teques.htm
ACAPULCO / South
290 km or (180 mi x 2 = 360 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Autopista (Plus Tolls)
standby time at $15 usd / hr. (or 1/4 hour fractions thereof)
THE OLD PART OF ACAPULCO
Today, most of the new developments in Acapulco are in the Diamante part of the city, on the airport side of the bay.
In its hey day, when Acapulco was the place for Hollywood stars and other members of the jet set to visit, the fancy places were on the old side. A little exploring around the old Acapulco goes a fair way to explaining why this was so. Acapulco Diamante is essentially flat hence the airport, while on the old side are most of the natural attractions.
The Marina is in old Acapulco, in the most protected part of the bay. Caleta and Caletilla beaches are coves perfectly protected from the ocean by La Roqueta island. The island itself has several inlets that are good places for snorkeling, and a ferry takes you there from Caleta.
On the same side of the bay is La Quebrada, where the famous rock divers perform. And up the hill from Caleta is the hotel Los Flamingos, where the Hollywood gang hung out. A visit to the hotel, of which the Casa Tarzan is the main suite, provides insight into the reasons for its popularity at the time. The hotel looks over some spectacular cliffs on to the ocean, and if no one is renting the suite, it ís possible to look it over, and wander down the path to the ledge for viewing. Los Flamingos with 40 rooms has some of the finest ocean views anywhere. http://hotellosflamingos.com/index.html
The lobby, or more precisely the entrance passage, is a bit of a museum, the walls covered with pictures of Johnny Weissmuller (Tarzan), John Wayne, Fred Mc Murray, Rex Allen, Errol Flyn, Red Skelton, Roy Rodgers, Richard Widmark, Cary Grant and other movie stars who bought the hotel in the 1950s as a getaway haven, a sort of nostalgic look back several decades.
The restaurant and bar also has tables looking out over the ocean, and is an ideal place to watch the sun set over the sea.
In the distance is Pie de la Cuesta, known for its violent waves, sunset views, and beachside restaurants specializing in ceviche a marinated fish prepared using lime juice. Wherever you stay in Acapulco, a visit to these sights is well worth the time.
THE OLD PART OF ACAPULCO
Today, most of the new developments in Acapulco are in the Diamante part of the city, on the airport side of the bay.
In its hey day, when Acapulco was the place for Hollywood stars and other members of the jet set to visit, the fancy places were on the old side. A little exploring around the old Acapulco goes a fair way to explaining why this was so. Acapulco Diamante is essentially flat hence the airport, while on the old side are most of the natural attractions.
The Marina is in old Acapulco, in the most protected part of the bay. Caleta and Caletilla beaches are coves perfectly protected from the ocean by La Roqueta island. The island itself has several inlets that are good places for snorkeling, and a ferry takes you there from Caleta.
On the same side of the bay is La Quebrada, where the famous rock divers perform. And up the hill from Caleta is the hotel Los Flamingos, where the Hollywood gang hung out. A visit to the hotel, of which the Casa Tarzan is the main suite, provides insight into the reasons for its popularity at the time. The hotel looks over some spectacular cliffs on to the ocean, and if no one is renting the suite, it ís possible to look it over, and wander down the path to the ledge for viewing. Los Flamingos with 40 rooms has some of the finest ocean views anywhere. http://hotellosflamingos.com/index.html
The lobby, or more precisely the entrance passage, is a bit of a museum, the walls covered with pictures of Johnny Weissmuller (Tarzan), John Wayne, Fred Mc Murray, Rex Allen, Errol Flyn, Red Skelton, Roy Rodgers, Richard Widmark, Cary Grant and other movie stars who bought the hotel in the 1950s as a getaway haven, a sort of nostalgic look back several decades.
The restaurant and bar also has tables looking out over the ocean, and is an ideal place to watch the sun set over the sea.
In the distance is Pie de la Cuesta, known for its violent waves, sunset views, and beachside restaurants specializing in ceviche a marinated fish prepared using lime juice. Wherever you stay in Acapulco, a visit to these sights is well worth the time.
TAXCO / Silver City / South West
81.4 km or (50.6 mi x 2 = 101.2 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Fed. Hwy 95 all the way.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3Q_EqQxE1Q
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0oGdWtssL9P8h0A.w9XNyoA?p=taxco+guerrero&fr=my-myy-s&fr2=piv-web
When you enter Taxco, you are greeted with a view of cobblestone streets and white houses with red tiles. But what is really amazing is the 200-year-old Cathedral of Santa Prisca, which is designed in true Mexican-Baroque style and has a remarkable façade and interior design.
Of course, the city’s fondness for all things silver can be found in the nearly 1,000 silver stores spread across the city. Taxco silver jewellery makes for a perfect souvenir, and the prices are quite moderate too. The Silver Fair is a month-long event that usually starts in November every year and features local silver artists displaying their work.
Also visit the Humbolt House, which has the Museum of Viceregal Art and is also called House of Mirrors. The quaint sixteenth-century San Bernadino Convent and the De la Borda mansion (which is now called the House of Culture) are also worth a visit, alongside the magnificent Cacalote Falls located just outside of Taxco.
The city was named one of Mexico’s “Pueblos Mágicos” (Magical Towns) due to the quality of the silver work, the colonial construction and the surrounding scenery.
Of the nearly 1,000 silver stores I recommend you not miss visiting "Linda de Taxco" on the Zocolo (Plaza Borda #4). Linda de Taxco has 3 or 4 locations in the same area. My Son and Daughter found their best deals there.
Linda de Taxco
Plaza Borda #4
Col. Centro
Taxco, Guerreo
40200
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0oGdWtssL9P8h0A.w9XNyoA?p=taxco+guerrero&fr=my-myy-s&fr2=piv-web
When you enter Taxco, you are greeted with a view of cobblestone streets and white houses with red tiles. But what is really amazing is the 200-year-old Cathedral of Santa Prisca, which is designed in true Mexican-Baroque style and has a remarkable façade and interior design.
Of course, the city’s fondness for all things silver can be found in the nearly 1,000 silver stores spread across the city. Taxco silver jewellery makes for a perfect souvenir, and the prices are quite moderate too. The Silver Fair is a month-long event that usually starts in November every year and features local silver artists displaying their work.
Also visit the Humbolt House, which has the Museum of Viceregal Art and is also called House of Mirrors. The quaint sixteenth-century San Bernadino Convent and the De la Borda mansion (which is now called the House of Culture) are also worth a visit, alongside the magnificent Cacalote Falls located just outside of Taxco.
The city was named one of Mexico’s “Pueblos Mágicos” (Magical Towns) due to the quality of the silver work, the colonial construction and the surrounding scenery.
Of the nearly 1,000 silver stores I recommend you not miss visiting "Linda de Taxco" on the Zocolo (Plaza Borda #4). Linda de Taxco has 3 or 4 locations in the same area. My Son and Daughter found their best deals there.
Linda de Taxco
Plaza Borda #4
Col. Centro
Taxco, Guerreo
40200
TLAYACAPAN - Mummified bodies found / North East
53.2 km or (33.1 mi x 2 = 66.2 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Fed. Hwy 160 to Cocoyoc then left on hwy 113 in Cocoyoc.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tlayacapan http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0oGkkisssVPdm0AI9FXNyoA?p=tlayacapan+morelos+wikipedia&fr=&fr2=piv-web
Tlayacapan is a town and a municipality located in the northeast part of Morelos state in central Mexico. It is located 60km east from the state capital of Cuernavaca and about 1.5 hours south of Mexico City.[1] It is a rural area, whose way of life has not changed much over the 20th century, with 90% of its population still partially or fully dependent on agriculture. The town has old mansions, houses with red tile roofs and streets paved with stones. Many ravines crisscross the area and are crossed by numerous stone bridges.[2][3] The town was also the filming location for the adventure drama film, La Valentina (1966), starring María Félix and Eulalio González "Piporro". The main landmark is the former monastery of San Juan Bautista, which towers over all the other structures. It was built beginning the 1530s, along with 26 chapels scattered around the original town as part of the “spiritual conquest” of the area. Today, this monastery is part of theMonasteries on the slopes of Popocatépetl (Volcano El Popo), which was made a World Heritage Site in 1994. Culturally, the town is famous for two things: being the origin of the Chinelos dance and the home of the Banda Tlayacapan band, the most important culturally in the state and nationally recognized.
The museum contains a number of naturally mummified remains on display. These were found under the floor of the main nave of the monastery church in 1982, when restoration work was being performed.[4][1] These remains are of several children and one adolescent, each found in its own wooden coffin and in good condition. They were identified as upper-class Spanish due to their dress.[8][9] The belief at that time was to be buried in the church as close to the altar as possible in order to reach heaven sooner.[8] Today they can be viewed in the museum in the room which used to be the dispensary. For this reason and others, photos inside the museum area are strictly prohibited.[9]
Tepoztlan - East
38.8 km or (24.1 mi x 2 = 48.2 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Autopista, Ocotepec, Santa Catarina
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRp7v1y7fK8&list=PL88C6EC34DBC1D579
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoX3gucVPaH0AZfeJzbkF?p=tepoztlan+morelos&fr=&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&y=Search
One of the main attractions of Tepoztlan is the market place. This market has two sections: One which is situated on the main plaza, where one can buy fresh and exotic groceries, as well as trying different traditional dishes and purchase handicrafts. The other takes place on the main road on Saturdays and Sundays, where one can buy regional handicrafts from every corner of the country and handicrafts found nowhere else but here.
Tepoztlan is also known as a mystical center.
Also worth visiting is the beautiful XVI century Augustinian Convent built in honor of our Lady of Annunciation.
At the back of the convent there is an archaeological museum where one can admire the private collection of Carlos Pellicer, donated to the people of Tepoztlan.
To the north of Tepoztlan, is located the Tepozteco Mountain, the top of the Ehecatepets hill. On this mountain is the archaeological site of the same name, it derives from Tepoztecatl, the name of the principal god of the Pulque (an alcoholic beverage made from the sap of the agave).
Deities also adored was the god of Fertility and Harvest.
The site was therefore, considered to be a sacred place where many pilgrims came from as far as Chiapas and Guatemala. This site consists of a monument in honor of Tepoztecatl, also known as the Tepozteco House, it is a pyramid built on a platform 9.50 mts. high. The pyramid can only be reached by a long and narrow flight of steps located on the mountain's South side of the temple. To reach the site, one must follow by foot a sloping path on the north side of the town. (For the physically fit only)
In Tepoztlan, each year on September the 8th, a feast is celebrated in honor to Tepoztecatl with regional dances and songs.
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoX3gucVPaH0AZfeJzbkF?p=tepoztlan+morelos&fr=&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&y=Search
One of the main attractions of Tepoztlan is the market place. This market has two sections: One which is situated on the main plaza, where one can buy fresh and exotic groceries, as well as trying different traditional dishes and purchase handicrafts. The other takes place on the main road on Saturdays and Sundays, where one can buy regional handicrafts from every corner of the country and handicrafts found nowhere else but here.
Tepoztlan is also known as a mystical center.
Also worth visiting is the beautiful XVI century Augustinian Convent built in honor of our Lady of Annunciation.
At the back of the convent there is an archaeological museum where one can admire the private collection of Carlos Pellicer, donated to the people of Tepoztlan.
To the north of Tepoztlan, is located the Tepozteco Mountain, the top of the Ehecatepets hill. On this mountain is the archaeological site of the same name, it derives from Tepoztecatl, the name of the principal god of the Pulque (an alcoholic beverage made from the sap of the agave).
Deities also adored was the god of Fertility and Harvest.
The site was therefore, considered to be a sacred place where many pilgrims came from as far as Chiapas and Guatemala. This site consists of a monument in honor of Tepoztecatl, also known as the Tepozteco House, it is a pyramid built on a platform 9.50 mts. high. The pyramid can only be reached by a long and narrow flight of steps located on the mountain's South side of the temple. To reach the site, one must follow by foot a sloping path on the north side of the town. (For the physically fit only)
In Tepoztlan, each year on September the 8th, a feast is celebrated in honor to Tepoztecatl with regional dances and songs.
LIVE VOLCANO POPOCATEPETL / North East
111 km or (68.9 mi x 2 = 137.8 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via hwy. (160 / 138) then left on hwy 115 in Cuautla, Approaching Amecameca turn right toward San Pedro Nexapa, and Paso de Cortes
POPOCATEPETL VOLCANO Tourist Center. Also known as "EL POPO" (17, 802 ft)
EL POPO is commonly referred to as Popo, El Popo or Don Goyo. The residents of Ozumba de Alzate, are close to Popocatepetl and can enjoy the views of the snowy and glacier-clad mountain almost all year long. At 5,426 mts. or 17, 802 ft. Popo is the second highest peak in Mexico. Popocatepetl is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico, having had more than 20 major eruptions since the arrival of the Spanish in 1519. Popo is currently active. A major eruption occurred in 1947 to begin this cycle of activity. Then, on December 21, 1994 the volcano spewed gas and ash which was carried as far as 25 km away by prevailing winds. The activity prompted the evacuation of nearby towns and scientists to begin monitoring for an eruption. In December 2000, tens of thousands of people were evacuated by the government based on the warnings of scientists. The volcano then made its largest display in thousands of years.
The closest access to view Popo is the Tourist Center at Paso de Cortes (12,139 Ft. or 3700 M.) Oxygen is thin at this altitude. Photo was taken from the Tourist Center.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Popocat%C3%A9petl
http://www.flickr.com/gp/9319929@N05/TcL9n3
EL POPO is commonly referred to as Popo, El Popo or Don Goyo. The residents of Ozumba de Alzate, are close to Popocatepetl and can enjoy the views of the snowy and glacier-clad mountain almost all year long. At 5,426 mts. or 17, 802 ft. Popo is the second highest peak in Mexico. Popocatepetl is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico, having had more than 20 major eruptions since the arrival of the Spanish in 1519. Popo is currently active. A major eruption occurred in 1947 to begin this cycle of activity. Then, on December 21, 1994 the volcano spewed gas and ash which was carried as far as 25 km away by prevailing winds. The activity prompted the evacuation of nearby towns and scientists to begin monitoring for an eruption. In December 2000, tens of thousands of people were evacuated by the government based on the warnings of scientists. The volcano then made its largest display in thousands of years.
The closest access to view Popo is the Tourist Center at Paso de Cortes (12,139 Ft. or 3700 M.) Oxygen is thin at this altitude. Photo was taken from the Tourist Center.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Popocat%C3%A9petl
http://www.flickr.com/gp/9319929@N05/TcL9n3
ALCATRACES, The trout restaurant on the mountainside / West
37.85 km or (23.52 mi x 2 = 47.04 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) via Sibida a Chalma
20 r.t. miles = A relatively inexpensive, rustic Trout Restaurant at Ocuilan, Mex. broiling/Baking and frying live trout. Fish ponds and a small lake are constantly refreshed by a perpetual, natural stream of water flowing from higher up in the mountains. I don't know the type trout but my brother, a fisherman, says they are "Rainbow Trout".
Elevated high in the green, lush mountain side there is usually a cool fresh breeze flowing through the "Open Air" dining deck. No pollution here my friend and the mountain view is spectacular. On the grounds were a few Donkeys and a few horses grazing around. This is one of my favorites of all the attractions I have listed so far.
My Brother wrote back: Mickey, I remember and appreciated the covered outdoor patio dining which is elevated above the ground on one side. From our table we saw our order of fish being netted for the cooks. It was cool and out of the direct sunlight. The casual furniture strewn about the dining area was comfortable and it provided the finishing touches that completed the lethargic ritual which normally occurs after superb dining. This place was the highlight of my tours with you. Buster Patin
Elevated high in the green, lush mountain side there is usually a cool fresh breeze flowing through the "Open Air" dining deck. No pollution here my friend and the mountain view is spectacular. On the grounds were a few Donkeys and a few horses grazing around. This is one of my favorites of all the attractions I have listed so far.
My Brother wrote back: Mickey, I remember and appreciated the covered outdoor patio dining which is elevated above the ground on one side. From our table we saw our order of fish being netted for the cooks. It was cool and out of the direct sunlight. The casual furniture strewn about the dining area was comfortable and it provided the finishing touches that completed the lethargic ritual which normally occurs after superb dining. This place was the highlight of my tours with you. Buster Patin
MALINALCO - Pyramids, Trout Restaurants & Exotic Birds / West
69.1 km or (42.9 mi x 2 = 85.8 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) Autopista, Morelos sur, Subida Chalma, Right turn toward Mexicapan, Acuilan de Arteaga, Malinalco
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0PDoKmsM8BPphIAuhmJzbkF?p=malinalco%20mexico&fr=my-myy&ei=utf-8&n=30&x=wrt&fr2=sg-gac&sado=1
75 R.T. miles = $104 us via FREE road. Breath taking Mountain views.
7 hour round trip assuming 2 hours on site.
Popular for the PYRAMIDS, WEDNESDAY MARKET & FRESH TROUT RESTAURANTS. Walkways to the PYRAMIDS are paved.
Surrounded by mountains, home to a unique Aztec historical site and graced with an abundance of blossoms and birds, Malinalco is a photographer's delight. (Birding is like fishing, you are not guaranteed they will be in the same place at the same time you are. Note: Mickey Patin is not a bird watchers tour guide).
Modern Malinalco is almost as remote as it was in 1501, when the Aztec (Mexica) conquerors began construction of the extraordinary temples and monuments overlooking the city. The city's isolation appealed to the Aztecs, who built a monolithic complex high above on Cerro de los Idolos. The most famous of these is El Cuauhcalli, where Mexica warriors were initiated into a military elite.
The archeological site is the principal tourist attraction in Malinalco. (Much walking required) but visitors also find plenty of other reasons to carry a camera.
The Zocalo (town center square) is the colorful commercial and social center of the town. Shaded by tall trees, residents and tourists alike gather here to sip morning coffee, plan the day or just hang out. Civic events are held here as well, and photographers always find something worth recording.
Malinalco's steep cobbled streets lead down to the zocalo, past hotels like El Marmil, open residences and orange-juice vendors. Crimson Vermillion flycatchers perch on telephone wires, and devil-banning pericon flower crosses adorn windows and doors. September 29 is known as the "devil at large" day, and these hand-made crosses are replaced anew each September 28 to protect houses, businesses and crops.
As colorful as central Malinalco is, photographers will be rewarded by wandering west on Guerrero street to the museum and trekking up Cerro de los Idolos (Hill of the Idols) to the Aztec ruin site.
Other photogenic trees and shrubs in Malinalco include figs, guava, plums, Poinsettia, Palo dulce, Easter lily, Sapodilla, Kapok and the beautiful Cacaloxochitl (Nahuatl for "crow flower"), or Flor de Mayo.
In addition to the orioles, some of the more colorful birds found in Malinalco include Indigo and Varied buntings, Grey silkies, Townsend's, Black and white, Rufous-capped and Colima warblers. Other striking birds include Rose-throated becards, Red-headed tanagers, Black-headed grosbeaks, Slate-throated redstarts, Vermillion flycatchers and Blue mockingbirds.
Colorful hummingbirds are also common, including Blue-throated, Berylline and White-eared. The aptly named Malinalco birds evoke a rainbow's spectrum.
75 R.T. miles = $104 us via FREE road. Breath taking Mountain views.
7 hour round trip assuming 2 hours on site.
Popular for the PYRAMIDS, WEDNESDAY MARKET & FRESH TROUT RESTAURANTS. Walkways to the PYRAMIDS are paved.
Surrounded by mountains, home to a unique Aztec historical site and graced with an abundance of blossoms and birds, Malinalco is a photographer's delight. (Birding is like fishing, you are not guaranteed they will be in the same place at the same time you are. Note: Mickey Patin is not a bird watchers tour guide).
Modern Malinalco is almost as remote as it was in 1501, when the Aztec (Mexica) conquerors began construction of the extraordinary temples and monuments overlooking the city. The city's isolation appealed to the Aztecs, who built a monolithic complex high above on Cerro de los Idolos. The most famous of these is El Cuauhcalli, where Mexica warriors were initiated into a military elite.
The archeological site is the principal tourist attraction in Malinalco. (Much walking required) but visitors also find plenty of other reasons to carry a camera.
The Zocalo (town center square) is the colorful commercial and social center of the town. Shaded by tall trees, residents and tourists alike gather here to sip morning coffee, plan the day or just hang out. Civic events are held here as well, and photographers always find something worth recording.
Malinalco's steep cobbled streets lead down to the zocalo, past hotels like El Marmil, open residences and orange-juice vendors. Crimson Vermillion flycatchers perch on telephone wires, and devil-banning pericon flower crosses adorn windows and doors. September 29 is known as the "devil at large" day, and these hand-made crosses are replaced anew each September 28 to protect houses, businesses and crops.
As colorful as central Malinalco is, photographers will be rewarded by wandering west on Guerrero street to the museum and trekking up Cerro de los Idolos (Hill of the Idols) to the Aztec ruin site.
Other photogenic trees and shrubs in Malinalco include figs, guava, plums, Poinsettia, Palo dulce, Easter lily, Sapodilla, Kapok and the beautiful Cacaloxochitl (Nahuatl for "crow flower"), or Flor de Mayo.
In addition to the orioles, some of the more colorful birds found in Malinalco include Indigo and Varied buntings, Grey silkies, Townsend's, Black and white, Rufous-capped and Colima warblers. Other striking birds include Rose-throated becards, Red-headed tanagers, Black-headed grosbeaks, Slate-throated redstarts, Vermillion flycatchers and Blue mockingbirds.
Colorful hummingbirds are also common, including Blue-throated, Berylline and White-eared. The aptly named Malinalco birds evoke a rainbow's spectrum.
LAS ESTACAS BALNEARIO /Fed by a gushing Artesian Spring / South East
50.2 km or (31.2 mi x 2 = 62.4 mi Round trip from Casa del Sol) N. on Autopista. Exit toward Cuauatla, Right on San Juan, to Las Estacas.
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=las+estacas&fr=my-myy&toggle=1&cop=&ei=UTF-8
At TICUMAN (3238 ft. Elev.) Average 4 hour round trip assuming 2 hours on site.
A beautiful tropical jungle setting, Johnny Weismeuler's "TARZAN MOVIES" were filmed here. Cabins, Pic-nics, Hiking & Bathing in natural spring water. Adult entrance fee is approximatly $20 US., children US$13. Cabins are approximately $50 to $60 US per night. No pets, no glass! Las Estacas' main artesian spring flows at 7,000 liters per second. This natural spring generates 7,500 liters of crystal clear water each second to form a kilometer of river of crystalline waters that give life to a great flora wealth and fauna of diverse species. You'll find several ways to enjoy this magnificient river: swimming, rafting, kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving. Also, children's pool, lap pool, mini-golf, climbing wall, basketball, spa, hotel, hostel, restaurant, snack bar, picnic tables. Lifeguards along the river and guided tours on weekends. http://clickoncuernavaca.com/more%20pages/Estacas.htm
http://www.tourbymexico.com/morelos/tlaltiza/tlaltiza.htm
At TICUMAN (3238 ft. Elev.) Average 4 hour round trip assuming 2 hours on site.
A beautiful tropical jungle setting, Johnny Weismeuler's "TARZAN MOVIES" were filmed here. Cabins, Pic-nics, Hiking & Bathing in natural spring water. Adult entrance fee is approximatly $20 US., children US$13. Cabins are approximately $50 to $60 US per night. No pets, no glass! Las Estacas' main artesian spring flows at 7,000 liters per second. This natural spring generates 7,500 liters of crystal clear water each second to form a kilometer of river of crystalline waters that give life to a great flora wealth and fauna of diverse species. You'll find several ways to enjoy this magnificient river: swimming, rafting, kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving. Also, children's pool, lap pool, mini-golf, climbing wall, basketball, spa, hotel, hostel, restaurant, snack bar, picnic tables. Lifeguards along the river and guided tours on weekends. http://clickoncuernavaca.com/more%20pages/Estacas.htm
http://www.tourbymexico.com/morelos/tlaltiza/tlaltiza.htm
Coral Club Cuernavaca - Spa
Km. 9 Autopista Cuernavaca-Acapulco,
Temixco, Morelos; Fraccionamiento Las Brisas.http://www.coralcuernavaca.com.mx/
Tels: 01(777)326 4131 y 3167
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
As of October 2013 Spa prices began at $350 mxn / $30 usd for a 30 minute massage. Other Therapies, Body Treatments and packages available. The most expensive Package deal was $3,300 mxn / $254 usd. I have no other information, for more info. contact the Hotel/Spa directly at: Verónica Calderón <[email protected]>
Km. 9 Autopista Cuernavaca-Acapulco,
Temixco, Morelos; Fraccionamiento Las Brisas.http://www.coralcuernavaca.com.mx/
Tels: 01(777)326 4131 y 3167
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
As of October 2013 Spa prices began at $350 mxn / $30 usd for a 30 minute massage. Other Therapies, Body Treatments and packages available. The most expensive Package deal was $3,300 mxn / $254 usd. I have no other information, for more info. contact the Hotel/Spa directly at: Verónica Calderón <[email protected]>