Atlixco

Atlixco is a beautiful town located in the southwest region of Puebla, its name comes from the Nahuatl language which means “Water Valley”. This city is also known as Atlixco de las Flores for offering great weather throughout the year which provides the perfect environment for flower- growth production, an important commercial activity; flowers can also be observed as they frame public parks and the main square.

Atlixco is located only a 25-mile drive from the Mexican city of Puebla, from where an amazing natural backdrop can be enjoyed, as well as picturesque streets and colonial-style buildings from the viceregal period.

Photo: Turismo Atlixco

What to do in Atlixco

Since 2015, Atlixco has been recognized as Magical Town for featuring a great cultural background, combined with history and an amazing array of touristic landmarks, as well as for the amazing activities you can enjoy while in Atlixco.

Cerro de San Miguel

The Cerro de San Miguel (the hill of San Miguel) is one of the most iconic spots in Atlixco you cannot miss during your travel itinerary in Puebla. On top of the mountain, you will be able to visit four scenic overlooks featuring breathtaking views of the famous volcano known as the Popo, the city or the surrounding area.

While on the San Miguel mountain in Atlixco, Puebla you can also pay a visit to the shrine of Saint Michael archangel which is believed was built over a Pre-Columbian archaeological site dedicated to Quetzalcoatl. 

Ex-Convento of Saint Francis

Wrapped in a tiny town atmosphere, the Ex-Convent of Saint Francis is located a few feets away from the San Miguel mountain. Get to admire an impressive Gothic and Mudejar style that invites you to visit the Marian-inspired paintings in gold located at its interior.

The Ex-Convent of Saint Francis is an icon of the Magical Town of Atlixco’s culture, so if you are an art lover while visiting you can also delight with fresco-style paintings placed all over the walls, including The Agony in the Garden and the Flagellation of Christ.

La Casa de la Ciencia

La Casa de la Ciencia (House of Science) is a venue dedicated to technological and scientific education for children and teens in Atlixco, however, along this precinct, there are several science rooms, such as the Vulcanology, visitors can get to admire many murals, including the La Ciencia, painted by Jorge Figueroa Acosta.

The Huey Atlixcayotl Feast

The Huey Atlicayotl Feast is an authentic tradition in Atlixco which dates from 300 years ago and is performed on the last Sunday of the month of September, honoring the Saint Michael archangel, which is also celebrated on the top of Saint Michael mountain (Cerro de San Miguel).

Live up and amazing experience surrounded in a colorful feast, traditional dances, and costumes!

Greenhouses at the Cabrera Neighborhood

Discover a fascinating flower array at the famous greenhouses of the Cabrera neighborhood in Atlixco, which covers lots of flower species, including roses, daisies, Marians, among others. Visting this Magical Town in Puebla is a great way to discover impressive landscapes framed by flowers. If you are a flower lover, the Greenhouses at the Cabrera neighborhood will become for sure some of your favorite places in Atlixco, Puebla

Please bear in mind that some flowers and plants’ species are only available on some seasons in Atlixco. However, if you are interested in getting immersed in the world of flowers and have no experience at all, the florists at the Greenhouses at Cabrera will assist you to discover your special flower, as well as its special care and tips to make the most of your flowers.

Top Attactions in Atlixco

You will always find something to do in Atlixco, so depending on your tastes, we also recommend visiting some of the following attractions in the Magical Town of Atlixco:

  • Admire the beautiful architecture of buildings such as the San Juan de Dios Municipal Hospital and the Municipal Palace
  • Visit the Main Square
  • Make an express visit to the towns of Huaquechula and Tochimilco
  • Visit the Church of La Merced, a true example of the Baroque style. Inside it is also possible to see paintings by artists of the 18th century and murals dedicated to the Virgen de la Merced (Virgin of Mercy)
  • Depending on the season, you can also enjoy different events such as the feast of kings, the Illuminated Villa and the festival of skulls
Photo: El Universal

Gastronomy and Culinary Tradition of Atlixco

Traveling to a new destination is always exciting as you can get to know the culture, including its gastronomy. Atlixco offers an intense culinary journey that combines ancestral ingredients such as avocado that result in a wide range of dishes.

Among the dishes that you can enjoy in Atlixco, it’s worthy to mention the iconic Atlixquense broth that is prepared with chicken, cheese, avocado and chipotle chili. For meat lovers, the traditional Cecina de Atlixco Festival is celebrated in July.

Discover the Magical Town of Atlixco in Puebla and venture to visit impressive tourist sites. Have you ever visited Atlixco before?