QUERÉTARO

Located in Mexico?s central region, Queretaro has an interesting ethnic and cultural heritage that has developed from the integration of pre-Hispanic and European customs.

In the city of Queretaro, the state capital, you?ll see beautiful examples of Baroque architecture. In fact, the buildings there are so impressive that the UNESCO considered declaring the city a World Heritage City. Among the notable edifices are the churches of San Felipe Neri and Santa Rosa Viterbo, quarry stone constructions that house precious altarpieces, and the Teatro de la Republica, where Mexico?s constitution was signed. In this state you can also visit Juriquilla, which has exclusive spa resorts and golf courses, and the surrounding areas of Bernal, which provide ideal conditions for rock climbing and rappelling.

In Tequisquiapan, a town with a unique viceregal feel, you?ll find various trails for mountain biking. In San Juan Del Rio, you can visit Rancho El Siete, where you can take a hot air balloon ride that goes 400 meters (1,320 feet) high. Finally, in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, you can go to El Sotano del Barro, where you can do some paragliding. During your stay, you can also visit the famous Franciscan missions, declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. At all of these places you can enjoy delicious regional cuisine; typical dishes are prepared with such ingredients as corn, chili peppers, cacti and fruits. You?ll also find a wide variety of crafts at the stores and markets, including textiles, furniture, wooden utensils, opal products and stone sculptures.