Tizayuca, Mexico
Region: Hidalgo
Geographic Coordinates: 19.833300, -98.983300
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 35.0°C (50°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 119442
Language: Spanish
Tizayuca is a small Mexican town located in the state of Hidalgo, About 60 kilometers north of Mexico City. It is a quiet and peaceful place with a population of around 50, 000 people. The town has a rich history dating back to pre-Hispanic times when it was inhabited by the Otomi people. Later, During the colonial period, It became an important agricultural center and played a significant role in Mexico’s struggle for independence. One of the main attractions in Tizayuca is its beautiful colonial architecture.
The town’s historic center features several well-preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, Including the San Juan Bautista Church, Which dates back to 1771. This church is known for its impressive Baroque-style façade and stunning interior decorations. Another popular attraction in Tizayuca is its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and valleys that offer breathtaking views of the countryside. Visitors can take leisurely walks through these picturesque landscapes or go on more challenging hikes to explore deeper into nature.
Tizayuca also has an interesting cultural scene with several museums and art galleries showcasing local artists’ works. One notable museum worth visiting is the Museo Casa Grande de Tizayuca, Which displays artifacts from different periods of Mexican history. For those interested in outdoor activities, Tizayuca offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports such as hiking, Mountain biking, Horseback riding or rock climbing at nearby parks like El Chico National Park or Los Mármoles Natural Reserve.
foodies will appreciate Tizayuca’s delicious traditional cuisine that includes dishes like barbacoa (slow-cooked lamb), Carnitas (fried pork), Chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers) and tamales (corn dough filled with meat or vegetables). These dishes are often served with handmade tortillas and accompanied by refreshing drinks like horchata (rice milk) or jamaica (hibiscus tea). Tizayuca is a charming town that offers a unique blend of history, Culture, Nature and gastronomy. It is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and immerse themselves in Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
Important Landmarks
- Ex-Convent of San Francisco de Asis
- Tizayuca Archaeological Zone
- Ecological Park Las Plazas
- Santa Ana Catholic Church
- Parque Ecologico Cubitos de Tizayuca
- Plaza Principal
- Museo del Ferrocarril de Tizayuca
- Casa de la Cultura Joaquin Arcadio Pagaza
Primary Industries
- Manufacturing: Tizayuca has a significant manufacturing industry that produces various products such as textiles, shoes, furniture, and construction materials.
- Agriculture: The town is known for its agricultural production of crops such as corn, beans, and chili peppers.
- Construction: With the growing population in the area, there is a high demand for new housing and infrastructure development.
- Retail: There are several supermarkets and retail stores in Tizayuca that cater to the needs of the local population.
- Service sector: The town also has a thriving service sector with businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities.
- Logistics: Due to its strategic location between Mexico City and Pachuca de Soto (the capital of Hidalgo state), Tizayuca serves as an important transportation hub for goods moving between these two cities.
Noteable History
- The founding of the town in 1529 by Spanish conquistadors.
- The Battle of Tizayuca in 1812 during the Mexican War of Independence, where insurgent forces led by José María Morelos defeated royalist troops.
- The birthplace of revolutionary leader Emiliano Zapata, who was born in Anenecuilco, a nearby village that is now part of Tizayuca municipality.
- The construction of the Santa Maria Magdalena Church in the 18th century, which is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Mexico.
- The establishment of Hacienda de Santa Ana Tlayacapan by Spanish colonizers in 1538, which played a significant role in shaping the region’s economy and social structure.
- The development of agriculture and livestock farming as major industries throughout the town’s history.
- In recent years, Tizayuca has become known for its annual Feria de la Pirotecnia (Fireworks Fair), which showcases traditional Mexican pyrotechnics and attracts visitors from around the world.
Museums and Things To See
- Casa de la Cultura Tizayuca – a cultural center that hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year.
- Parroquia de San Juan Bautista – a beautiful church with stunning architecture.
- Palacio Municipal – the town hall of Tizayuca known for its colonial-style architecture.
- Museo del Ferrocarril Hidalgo – a museum dedicated to the history of railways in Hidalgo state.
- Parque Ecoturístico Xochitla – a nature park with hiking trails, gardens, and recreational activities for all ages.
- Ex-Convento Franciscano de San Miguel Arcángel – an ancient monastery dating back to the 16th century.
- Plaza Principal de Tizayuca- the main square of Tizayuca where you can find local vendors selling traditional food and handicrafts.
- Zona Arqueológica El Conde- an archaeological site showcasing pre-Hispanic ruins from different eras of Mexican history.
- Santuario del Señor del Cerrito- A religious sanctuary located on top of a hill offering scenic views of the town below.
- Balneario Los Manantiales- A waterpark featuring pools, slides and other aquatic attractions perfect for family outings during hot weather days.
Cultural Events
- Carnival of Tizayuca – A vibrant carnival celebrated in February or March with colorful parades, music, dance performances and traditional food.
- Day of the Dead – A significant Mexican festival held on November 1st and 2nd to honor deceased loved ones with altars decorated with flowers, candles and offerings.
- Feria de Tizayuca – An annual fair held in September that features amusement rides, food stalls selling local delicacies and live music concerts.
- Feast of San Antonio de Padua – Celebrated on June 13th every year to honor Saint Anthony with a procession through the streets of Tizayuca followed by a mass at his church.
- Independence Day – Celebrated on September 16th across Mexico including Tizayuca with patriotic parades, fireworks displays and street parties.
- Christmas Posadas – A nine-day celebration before Christmas Eve where people re-enact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter by going door-to-door singing carols asking for lodging until they reach their final destination at a nativity scene where they pray together.
Note: It is always recommended to check local event calendars or tourism websites for updated information regarding events before planning your travel itinerary or attending any cultural event/festival anywhere in the world during COVID-19 pandemic times as many such gatherings might be cancelled/postponed/restricted due to safety concerns or government regulations imposed by authorities from time-to-time based on prevailing situations/conditions/risks associated with large public gatherings etc.
Cuisine
- Barbacoa: slow-cooked meat (usually lamb or beef) served with tortillas and various toppings.
- Tacos al pastor: marinated pork cooked on a spit and served in tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
- Chilaquiles: fried tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese, and sometimes meat or eggs.
- Pozole: a hearty soup made with hominy (dried corn kernels), meat (usually pork), and various spices.
Some popular restaurants in Tizayuca that serve these dishes include:
- Taqueria El Paisa
- La Casa de la Barbacoa
- El Rincon de los Sabores
- Los Compadres de la Viga
Parks and Recreation
- Parque Ecológico Cubitos: This large park has walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing.
- Parque Recreativo El Caracol: A park with a swimming pool, water slides, sports fields, and picnic areas.
- Parque La Floresta: An urban park with walking paths, playgrounds, basketball courts and soccer fields.
- Balneario San Antonio Tizayuca: A water park with several pools of different sizes and depths for all ages to enjoy.
- Deportivo Tizayuca: This sports complex offers various activities such as basketball courts, soccer fields and a gymnasium.
- Centro Cultural y Deportivo El Punto: A cultural center that offers classes in dance and music as well as sports facilities like tennis courts.
- Rancho Las Palomas Ecotourism Park: An ecological reserve that offers horseback riding tours through the countryside of Hidalgo state.
- Balneario Ojo de Agua Santa Ana Tlalpa : Another water park located near Tizayuca which has swimming pools of different sizes along with slides for children to enjoy.