Santa María Texmelucan, Mexico
Region: Puebla
Geographic Coordinates: 19.283300, -98.433300
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 30.0°C (50°F to 86°F)
Population: 175518
Language: Spanish
Santa María Texmelucan is a city in the Mexican state of Puebla, Known for its vibrant culture, Rich history, And stunning architecture. The city has a population of approximately 120, 000 people and is located about 35 miles southeast of the state capital, Puebla. One of the most striking features of Santa María Texmelucan is its beautiful colonial architecture. Many buildings in the city date back to the 16th century and feature intricate stonework, Colorful facades, And ornate balconies.
Notable examples include the Church of San Bernardino de Siena built in 1570 with a stunning Baroque facade; and Municipal Palace constructed in 1844 now housing government offices. In addition to architectural wonders, Santa María Texmelucan also boasts rich cultural heritage with several museums showcasing local history and art like Museum of Popular Art (Museo de Arte Popular) featuring exhibits on traditional crafts such as pottery making, Weaving, Embroidery. Another important aspect is cuisine; famous dishes include mole poblano (savory sauce made with chili peppers) and chiles en nogada (stuffed peppers topped with walnut sauce).
Visitors can sample these delicious dishes at local restaurants or food festivals held throughout the year. Despite challenges related to crime/security reports on thefts from cargo trucks passing through town as well as incidents involving drug trafficking gangs operating nearby authorities are working hard to address issues through increased police presence/community outreach programs. Overall, Santa María Texmelucan offers visitors a unique blend of history, Culture, Cuisine, And natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring colonial architecture or trying new foods, This destination worth considering.
- San Juan Bautista Church: This beautiful church dates back to the 16th century and is an important religious site for locals.
- The Municipal Palace: Located in the city center, this palace has a colonial-style architecture and houses government offices.
- The Regional Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Santa María Texmelucan and its surroundings.
- El Cristo de la Capilla: A religious statue located on top of a hill that offers stunning views of the city.
- The Balloon Festival: This annual event takes place in November and features hot air balloons from all over Mexico.
- The Market: Santa María Texmelucan’s market is known for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and food products like mole sauce.
- The Xochitlán Archaeological Site: Located just outside Santa María Texmelucan, this ancient site dates back to pre-Columbian times and features pyramids, temples, and other structures from different periods in history.
- La Malinche National Park: A natural reserve located near Santa María Texmelucan that offers hiking trails with stunning views of nearby mountains like Popocatepetl volcano.
Note that due to COVID-19 restrictions some attractions may be closed or have limited access at this time; it’s always advisable to check beforehand if you plan on visiting any specific location during your trip to Santa Maria Texmelucan or anywhere else in Mexico.
- Manufacturing: The city is known for its manufacturing industry, particularly the production of textiles, clothing, and footwear.
- Agriculture: The surrounding region is rich in agricultural resources such as corn, beans, wheat, and vegetables.
- Oil and Gas: Santa María Texmelucan is located near Mexico’s largest oil refinery complex which provides employment opportunities for locals.
- Commerce: The city has a thriving commercial sector with numerous shops selling a variety of goods including electronics, household appliances, furniture and more.
- Services: There are several service-based industries in the area such as transportation services (taxis), restaurants and cafes that cater to both residents and tourists alike.
- Santa María Texmelucan was founded by Spanish colonizers in the 16th century.
- The Battle of Texmelucan took place during the Mexican War of Independence in 1812, between Mexican insurgents and Spanish royalist forces.
- Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín, a famous Mexican general who played a key role in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 (Cinco de Mayo), was born in Santa María Texmelucan.
- American businessman Edward L. Doheny established the first oil refinery in Mexico in Santa María Texmelucan in 1900.
- On December 20, 2016, there was a major explosion at a fireworks market that killed over thirty people and injured dozens more.
- Notable people from Santa María Texmelucan include artist and muralist Federico Cantú Garza and soccer player José Luis Real Casillas.
- The town is known for its production of textiles, particularly rebozos (shawls), which are sold throughout Mexico and internationally.
- Casa de la Cultura: An art center that showcases the cultural heritage of the region through various exhibitions and events.
- Templo de San Juan Bautista: A historic church built in the 16th century that features beautiful architecture and religious artifacts.
- Museo del Ferrocarril: A railway museum that displays antique trains and locomotives used during the early days of transportation.
- Parque Ecológico Xochitla: A nature park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a variety of flora and fauna to explore.
- Plaza Principal: The main square of Santa María Texmelucan where locals gather for festivals, concerts, and other cultural events.
- Monumento al Maíz: A monument dedicated to corn cultivation which is a significant part of Mexican culture and cuisine.
- Mercado Municipal: A traditional market where visitors can find local handicrafts, fresh produce, and authentic Mexican food.
- Ex-Hacienda San Francisco Toxpan: An old hacienda turned into a museum that offers guided tours showcasing its rich history as a sugar cane plantation during colonial times.
- Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe y San Antonio Abad: A beautiful church with intricate architectural details that is worth visiting for its beauty alone.
- Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park: Located about an hour away from Santa María Texmelucan is this stunning national park known for its impressive cave system filled with stalactites and stalagmites among other natural wonders to explore by foot or boat tour inside the caves themselves!
- Feria de la Candelaria: A religious festival held every February 2nd to honor the Virgin of Candelaria.
- Fiesta de San Juan Bautista: A religious festival held on June 24th to honor Saint John the Baptist.
- Festival de la Primavera: A spring festival celebrated every March with music, dance, food, and cultural activities.
- Carnaval Santa María Texmelucan: A carnival celebration held before Lent featuring parades, costumes, music and dance.
- Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos): A traditional Mexican holiday that honors ancestors who have passed away which takes place from October 31st to November 2nd every year.
It’s important to note that these events may be subject to change or cancellation due to COVID-19 restrictions or other unforeseen circumstances. It’s always best to check with local authorities or event organizers for updates on specific dates and details for any upcoming cultural events or festivals in Santa María Texmelucan or any other location you plan on visiting.
- Tacos al pastor – a traditional Mexican dish made with marinated pork cooked on a spit and served in soft corn tortillas.
- Chiles en nogada – a seasonal dish made with poblano peppers stuffed with meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds.
- Mole poblano – a rich sauce made from chili peppers, chocolate, and other ingredients served over chicken or turkey.
- Tamales – steamed corn dough filled with various meats or vegetables wrapped in corn husks.
Some popular restaurants in Santa María Texmelucan that serve these dishes include:
- El Rincón de los Sabores – known for their delicious tacos al pastor and chiles en nogada.
- La Casa del Mole Poblano – specializes in the famous mole poblano dish.
- Las Cazuelas de la Abuela – serves traditional Mexican dishes such as tamales and enchiladas.
- El Portón de Celaya – offers a variety of regional dishes including tacos al pastor and chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers).
- Parque Juárez: A popular park with green spaces, playgrounds, and a fountain.
- Parque de la Constitución: A central park with a large gazebo, benches, and a playground.
- Centro Deportivo y Recreativo La Loma: A sports complex with basketball courts, soccer fields, and a swimming pool.
- Parque Ecológico El Ameyal: An ecological park with hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and picnic areas.
- Pista de Hielo Texmelucan: An ice-skating rink open year-round for public skating sessions.
- Cinepolis Santa María Texmelucan: A movie theater showing the latest releases in both Spanish and English.
- Plaza Comercial La Joya: A shopping center with stores selling clothing, electronics, groceries, and more.
- Museo Casa del Títere Rosete Aranda: A museum dedicated to the art of puppetry featuring exhibits on local history as well as performances by puppeteers from around Mexico.
