San Cristóbal de las Casas

This colonial town is the cultural heart of Chiapas, renowned for its colorful streets, indigenous markets, and vibrant cultural scene. Stroll through its historic center, visit the Templo de Santo Domingo, and explore local craft markets.

Cañón del Sumidero (Sumidero Canyon)

Located near the capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, this stunning canyon offers breathtaking views, boat tours along the Grijalva River, and opportunities to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species.

The archaeological site of Palenque

One of the most famous Mayan archaeological sites in Mexico, Palenque is surrounded by dense jungle and is home to some of the most intricate and well-preserved ruins. The Temple of the Inscriptions and the Palace are must-visit highlights.

Agua Azul and Misol-Ha Waterfalls

These natural wonders are located near Palenque and are popular spots for swimming, photography, and relaxation. The turquoise waters of Agua Azul are especially famous, while the towering Misol-Ha waterfall offers a serene jungle setting.

Lacandon Jungle

For adventure lovers, the Lacandon Jungle offers treks through dense rainforests, visits to remote Indigenous villages, and boat trips along the Usumacinta River. This region is perfect for eco-tourism and wildlife spotting.

Montebello Lakes National Park

This beautiful park is famous for its dozens of multicolored lakes, surrounded by pine forests and karst landscapes. Visitors can hike, kayak, or simply enjoy the serene views of these pristine lakes.

When it comes to getting around Chiapas, travelers have several options. Each mode of transport has its pros and cons, depending on where you’re heading and the level of convenience you’re seeking.

Public Transportation

The main cities in Chiapas, such as Tuxtla Gutiérrez, San Cristóbal de las Casas, and Palenque, are well-connected by long-distance buses. ADO is one of the major bus companies offering reliable service across the region.

Colectivos (Shared Vans) are widely used in Chiapas for shorter distances, especially between smaller towns and tourist attractions. They are affordable but can be crowded and have unpredictable schedules.

• Cost-effective and relatively easy to find
• Limited comfort
• Some remote areas are not accessible via public transport

Car Rentals

Renting a car is a popular option for travelers who want more flexibility and independence. Chiapas has decent roads, especially between major cities and attractions, but rural areas may have rougher terrain.

Car rentals are available in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Palenque, and San Cristóbal de las Casas.

• Flexibility to explore at your own pace, especially for remote destinations
• Driving in rural areas requires caution due to winding roads
• Parking in busy towns can be a challenge.

Hiring Local Agencies

Local tour agencies offer convenient transportation services, especially for tourists visiting remote or less accessible places like the Lacandon Jungle or Agua Azul. Many agencies provide guided tours with transportation included.

• Hassle-free includes guided experiences and easier access to remote sites
• Higher costs than public transport or car rentals
• Less flexibility in the itinerary

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in cities and towns like Tuxtla Gutiérrez and San Cristóbal de las Casas. They are convenient for short trips but can become expensive if used for longer distances.

• Convenient for local trips.
• Not suitable for long-distance travel due to high costs.

San Cristobal de las Casas is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes that offer a refreshing escape from the town’s vibrant streets. One of the must-visit attractions is the Sumidero Canyon, located about an hour’s drive from the town.

Embark on a boat tour along the Grijalva River to marvel at the towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls within the canyon.

For nature enthusiasts, the Montebello Lakes National Park is a paradise.

This protected area is renowned for its stunning turquoise lakes nestled amidst lush forests and mountains. Take a hike or rent a canoe to explore the picturesque lakes and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.

Close to San Cristobal de las Casas, you’ll find the El Arcotete Ecotourism Park, a natural wonder with a limestone cave, crystal-clear springs, and a scenic hiking trail. The park is perfect for a leisurely picnic or an adventurous day of exploring.

If you’re up for a challenge, consider hiking to the top of Cerro Huitepec, a nearby mountain offering panoramic views of the town and its surrounding valleys. The trail is well-marked and rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas at the summit.

No visit to San Cristobal de las Casas is complete without savoring the local gastronomy.

The town boasts a vibrant food scene, influenced by indigenous traditions and international flavors. Head to the Mercado de Santo Domingo to sample authentic Mexican street food, including tamales, tacos, and traditional soups.

Try the regional specialty called “cocido chiapaneco,” a hearty meat and vegetable stew simmered in a rich broth. Another local delicacy is “queso de bola,” a type of cheese made from cow’s milk, typically served with black beans and tortillas.

Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the traditional drink called “posh,” made from fermented corn. It’s a slightly sour beverage with a distinct flavor and is often enjoyed alongside meals.

For those seeking international cuisine, San Cristobal de las Casas offers a diverse range of options, including Italian, French, and Asian fusion restaurants. Vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries can also be found throughout the town.

San Cristobal de las Casas offers a wide variety of locally made crafts, textiles, and traditional products. Apart from the aforementioned Mercado de Santo Domingo and Mercado de Artesanías, there are several other markets worth exploring.

The Mercado de Dulces (Sweets Market) is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth. Here, you can find an assortment of delicious traditional candies, chocolates, and sugary treats.

If you’re interested in textiles, head to the Mercado de la Paz, where you’ll find a vast selection of colorful fabrics, handwoven garments, and intricate embroidery. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique and authentic souvenirs.

Explore the pedestrian-friendly streets of the town center, where you’ll find boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops. These establishments offer a curated selection of handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, and fashion accessories created by local artisans.

Remember to hone your bargaining skills and engage with the vendors, as they often appreciate the opportunity to share the stories behind their creations.

San Cristobal de las Casas serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Chiapas. Here are a few recommended day trips and excursions:

Palenque: Embark on a journey to the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, located approximately 3 hours away from San Cristobal de las Casas. Explore the impressive pyramids, temples, and intricate stone carvings hidden amidst the lush jungle.

Agua Azul and Misol-Ha Waterfalls: Discover the cascading beauty of the Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls. These natural wonders are nestled within the Chiapas rainforest and offer opportunities for swimming, hiking, and photography.

Montañas del Norte: Venture into the Montañas del Norte (Northern Mountains), a picturesque mountain range near San Cristobal de las Casas. Here, you can hike through cloud forests, explore hidden waterfalls, and encounter diverse flora and fauna.

The El Chiflón Waterfalls and Lagunas de Montebello are popular attractions in this area.

San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan: If you haven’t had the chance to visit these indigenous villages, consider taking a day trip to San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Immerse yourself in the local customs, witness traditional rituals, and interact with the welcoming communities.

Sumidero Canyon: As mentioned earlier, the Sumidero Canyon is a natural wonder that shouldn’t be missed. Take a boat tour along the canyon’s towering cliffs, spot wildlife such as crocodiles and monkeys, and admire the breathtaking scenery.

El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve: Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site located southeast of San Cristobal de las Casas.

This protected area is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including rare bird species and diverse ecosystems. Explore the trails, go birdwatching, and marvel at the pristine beauty of this unique reserve.

San Cristobal de las Casas is known for its vibrant festivals and events that showcase the town’s cultural richness and traditions. Here are a few notable celebrations to mark on your calendar:

Fiesta de San Cristobal

Celebrated in honor of the town’s patron saint, St. Christopher, this festival takes place from July 25th to 31st. The streets come alive with parades, traditional dances, live music, and fireworks.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to witness the fusion of indigenous and Catholic traditions.

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

This renowned Mexican holiday, observed on November 1st and 2nd, is a unique and colorful celebration of life and remembrance. San Cristobal de las Casas embraces the festivities with elaborate altars, processions, and traditional offerings in the cemeteries.

The town’s vibrant atmosphere during this time is truly captivating.

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

San Cristobal de las Casas is a popular destination during Semana Santa, the week leading up to Easter.

The streets are adorned with intricate carpets made of flowers and colored sawdust, creating beautiful and ephemeral artwork. Processions, reenactments, and religious ceremonies take place throughout the week, offering a profound cultural experience.

Festival Cervantino

Inspired by the renowned Guanajuato festival, San Cristobal de las Casas hosts its own version of the Festival Cervantino in November. The event showcases a diverse range of artistic performances, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts.

It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local and international art scene.

San Cristobal de las Casas is well-connected and can be reached by air, road, or bus. The nearest airport is the Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, which is approximately 50 kilometers away.

From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to reach the town. Alternatively, you can travel by bus from various major cities in Mexico, including Mexico City and Oaxaca. The scenic journey through the Chiapas highlands is an experience in itself.

San Cristobal de las Casas offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From charming boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses, here are a few recommendations:

Luxury Hotels: For a luxurious stay, consider Casa del Alma Hotel Boutique & Spa or Hotel Bo. These properties offer elegant rooms, impeccable service, and spa facilities for a truly indulgent experience.

Mid-range Hotels: Hotel Diego de Mazariegos and Hotel Ciudad Real Centro Histórico are excellent mid-range options. They provide comfortable rooms, central locations, and amenities such as swimming pools and restaurants.

Budget Accommodations: If you’re traveling on a budget, Hostal La Casa de Paco and Posada del Abuelito are affordable yet cozy options. These hostels provide dormitory-style rooms or private accommodations, communal areas, and friendly atmospheres.

Book your accommodation in advance during peak tourist seasons and festivals.

To make the most of your visit to San Cristobal de las Casas, here are some practical tips:

Weather: Pack layers of clothing as the weather in San Cristobal de las Casas can vary throughout the day. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons are generally mild. Don’t forget to bring a rain jacket or umbrella during the rainy season.

Altitude: San Cristobal de las Casas sits at an elevation of approximately 2,200 meters above sea level. Take it easy on your first day to acclimate to the altitude and avoid overexertion.

Safety: San Cristobal de las Casas is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Keep your valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and use authorized taxis or transportation services.

Transportation: San Cristobal de las Casas is a walkable town, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, if you need to travel further, taxis and colectivos (shared vans) are readily available.

Respect for Indigenous Communities: When visiting indigenous villages, respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.

Tuxtla Gutierrez

The capital of Chiapas state, Tuxtla Gutierrez has a population of approximately half a million inhabitants. It is a busy modern city with a reputable zoo and an excellent archaeological museum.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

One of Chiapas’ most charming cities, San Cristobal, was founded in 1528. A colonial city with narrow streets and colorful one-story houses with tiled roofs that enclose lovely courtyards.

San Cristobal offers the visitor not only a journey back in time with its many churches and museums but also a contemporary bohemian ambiance of art galleries, bars, and sophisticated restaurants catering to an international crowd of travelers and expats.

Colorfully dressed indigenous people from the surrounding villages sell handicrafts in the market and streets, rounding out the city’s very lively atmosphere.

Town of Palenque

The small town of Palenque is the bustling hub for excursions to one of the most important and beautiful pre-Hispanic sites in Mesoamerica, surrounded by rainforest, and originally called La Kam Ha (the place of much water) before the Spanish renamed it Palenque.

Archaeological sites of Chiapas

Pyramids of Palenque sprout from the lush jungle in the ruins of the once-mighty Maya kingdom, which had its heyday from around AD 630 to 740.

The town of Palenque, especially the funky rainforest-set travelers’ compound of El Panchán, also serves as a good base for other noteworthy archaeological sites and natural attractions.

And to extend your knowledge of Classic Maya cities, travel southeast along the border with Guatemala.

Cruise the Río Usumacinta by motorized launch to the prime riverside real estate ruins at Yaxchilán, where leafcutter ants file across walking paths and the complex reverberates with the throaty roars of howler monkeys, then detour by a Lacandón village to see the renowned frescoes and carvings at Bonampak.

For those who would like to immerse themselves more in the history of Mesoamerica, there are more amazing archaeological sites in Chiapas that can be visited from Palenque: Toniná and Bonampak with its unique wall paintings as well as Yaxchilán, right on the banks of the Rio Usumacinta, Mexico’s largest river.

The latter two are situated in the middle of the Selva Lacandona which forms part of the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve.

If you love nature and wildlife here are more reasons to visit Chiapas:

• Rainbow Falls at El Chiflon is enormous and cascades into a beautiful turquoise pool
• Sima de las Cotorras – thousands of green parakeets make their home in this huge sinkhole
• The Lagos de Montebello
• Horseback riding is the perfect way to explore the countryside
• Misol-Ha and Agua Azul
• Riding a boat through Sumidero Canyon

Cañon del Sumidero (Sumidero Canyon) is a must-see. This is a 25-mile-long river canyon with cliffs over 3000 feet in height and abundant wildlife, that can best be explored on a two-and-a-half-hour boat trip from Chiapa de Corzo or Embarcadero Cahuare.

Heading to the southwest of the state, you can follow the Ruta del Café (coffee route), hike Tacaná Volcano, or simply head off for some leisure to the Pacific coast with its mostly grey-black beaches at Puerto Arista, Boca del Cielo, Riberas de la Costa Azul or Barra de Zacapulco.

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The municipality is mostly made up of mountainous terrain, but the city sits in a small valley surrounded by hills.

The city and municipality are located in a region called the Central Highlands. Two thirds of the municipality is made up of mountainous terrain with the rest valley floor.

The city proper is located at 2,200 meters above sea level in a small valley surrounded by hills. The most important of these hills include Cerro Huitepec, San José Bocomtenelté, Cerro San Felipe, Cerro El Extranjero, Cerro Cruz Carreta, El Arcotete and Cerro Tzontehuitz.

While it is in a tropical zone, its climate is temperate due to the altitude. The climate is also humid, with cloud cover in the winter months that keeps temperatures down and can produce cold nights.

Average temperature between December and April is 18 °C. The area receives most of its rain in the summer to early fall. However, the cloud cover that exists in winter is generally absent and daytime temperatures can go up to 35 °C with high humidity.

Due to its high altitude the city temperatures can reach temperatures below 0 °C.

Many homes burn firewood for warmth in cold weather. This can give the city a slightly smoky smell although the number of homes burning firewood for warmth has dropped in the last two decades as more homes are integrating climate-control systems under city recommendations.

The natural vegetation of the area is a forest of pine and oak trees. However, most of the surrounding hills have lost their native trees, with deforestation rates at 80%, losing 15,000 hectares just since 1980. Reasons for this include cutting for firewood, urban development, poor resource management, fires and agriculture. The deforestation has led to erosion problems blocking rivers and streams and affecting underground recharge of the area’s freshwater springs.

The main rivers are the Amarillo and Fogótico along with a number of streams such as the Chamula, Peje de Oro and Ojo de Agua.

There are also two lakes called the Chapultepec and Cochi. The city had twenty-five natural fresh water springs, but deforestation has dried up seven and twelve flow only during the rainy season, leaving six for the city year round. These and the remaining surface lakes were declared protected in 2008.

San Cristóbal de las Casas has a mild subtropical highland climate moderated by its altitude.

The dry season, which runs from November to April is cool with a January average of 12.3 °C (54.1 °F). Owing to its altitude and the relative aridity of the dry season, San Cristóbal de las Casas has a fairly high diurnal temperature range and nighttime temperatures are cool.

Extended periods of frosts are rare, occurring only 2–3 days per year in December to February. Humidity is high (around 78%), even during the winter months, and fog or mist is quite common during the winter months, occurring 13–17 days per month with fog. Usually, this clears off during the day.

The wet season, which runs from May to October is warmer, with a June average of 17.0 °C (62.6 °F) and precipitation is significantly higher during these months. Fog is less common during this time.

Average annual precipitation is 1,084.7 millimetres (42.7 in) most of it concentrated in the wet season. The wettest month recorded was September 1998 when 525.8 millimetres (20.7 in) of precipitation was recorded, and the wettest day recorded was on October 4, 2005 with105 millimetres (4.1 in). Extremes range from a low of −8.5 °C (16.7 °F) to 35.8 °C (96.4 °F).

In 2010 the municipality of San Cristóbal de las Casas had a total population of 185,917, and the city of 158,027.

As of 2010, 59,943 people in the municipality spoke an indigenous language.
The two most important ethnic groups in the area are the Tzotzil and Tzetzal.

The city was founded as Villa Real de Chiapa in 1528 by Diego de Mazariegos in what was called the Hueyzacatlán Valley, which means “pasture” in Nahuatl. From then on, the city went through a number of name changes: to Villa Viciosa in 1529, to Villa de San Cristóbal de los Llanos in 1531, and to Ciudad Real in 1536.

It was changed to Ciudad de San Cristóbal in 1829. “de las Casas” was added in 1848 in honor of Bartolomé de las Casas. There were some modifications in the early 20th century to the name but it returned to San Cristóbal de las Casas in 1943.

In the Tzotzil and Tzeltal languages the name of the area is Jovel, “the place in the clouds”.

The area did not have a pre-Hispanic city. After defeating the Zoques in the Northern Mountains and the Chiapans of this area, Diego de Mazariegos founded the city as a military fort. This city and much of what would be the state of Chiapas came under the Captaincy General of Guatemala in 1532 headed by Pedro de Alvarado. San Cristóbal received its coat of arms in 1535 from Carlos V and it was officially declared a city in 1536. The city gained the rank of Alcadía Mayor in 1577 which gave it authority over much of Chiapas north of it. The intendencia of Chiapas was created in 1786 combining San Cristóbal’s territory with that of Tuxtla and Soconusco, with the government in San Cristóbal. In 1821, the city followed Comitán de Domínguez’ declaration of independence from Spain and the Captaincy General of Guatemala. However, the city and the rest of Chiapas would become a part of Mexico in 1824, with the capital established here.

In 1829, the name Ciudad Real was changed to San Cristóbal. In the 19th century, the state government would shift back and forth between San Cristóbal, in the highlands dominated by Conservatives, and Tuxtla, dominated by Liberals.

Independent tendencies arose again in 1853, when the Plan of Yalmús was announced declaring the then Mexican Constitution null. Conservative forces attacked the city in 1857 but were dislodged shortly thereafter by Liberal Angel Albino Corzo. The last of French forces were expelled from the city in 1864. The state government was moved from San Cristóbal to Tuxtla for good in 1892 by the Liberal government. There was a failed attempt in 1911 by Conservatives in San Cristóbal and neighboring San Juan Chamula to force the return of the capital.

In 1915, the state went to the municipality system with San Cristóbal becoming a municipality. Originally, it had jurisdiction over communities such as San Lucas, Zinacantán, San Felipe Ecatepec, Tenejapa, San Miguel Mitontic, Huixtan and Chanal, but these would later separate to become municipalities in their own right. In the 20th century, the outskirts of the city become filled with open pit mines for gravel and sand. There was even one opened on a hill in the San Diego and La Florecilla neighborhoods, near the historic center called Salsipuedes. These prompted environmental and local community organizations to protest, stating that the valley is a closed water basin and the mining negatively affects potable water supplies. Salsipuedes was closed in the 2000s.

The city was declared a national historic monument in 1974.

San Cristóbal became the center of political activism with the election of Samuel Ruiz as bishop of Chiapas in 1960. In the 1960s and 1970s, the traditional Catholic Church was losing indigenous adherents to Protestant and other Christian groups. To counter this, Ruiz supported and worked with Marist priests and nuns following an ideology called liberation theology. In 1974 he organized a statewide Indian Congress with representatives from 327 communities of the Tzeltal, Tzotzil, Tojolabal and Ch’ol peoples as well as Marists and the Maoist People’s Union. This congress was the first of its kind with the goal of uniting the indigenous peoples politically. These efforts were also supported by leftist organizations from outside Mexico, especially to form unions of ejido organizations. These unions would later form the base of the EZLN organization. These efforts would also create a “new” type of Catholic in the state called “Word of God” Catholic. These would shun the “traditionalist” Catholic practice mixed with indigenous rites and beliefs. It would also create a split in many communities as the “Word of God” Catholics were loyal directly to the bishop in San Cristóbal, with traditionalists loyal to local cacique leaders.

Activism and resentment continued from the 1970s to the 1990s. During this decade, the Mexican federal government adopted neoliberalism, which clashed with the leftist political ideas of liberation theology and many of the indigenous activist groups. Despite the activism, economic marginalization among indigenous groups remained high, with resentment strongest in the San Cristóbal region and in migrant communities living in the Lacandon Jungle.

The grievances of these activists would be taken up by a small guerrilla band led by a man called only “Subcomandante Marcos.” His small band, called the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional, EZLN), came to the world’s attention when on January 1, 1994, the day the NAFTA treaty went into effect. On this day, EZLN forces occupied and took over the towns of San Cristóbal de las Casas, along with six other Chiapas communities. They read their proclamation of revolt to the world and then laid siege to a nearby military base, capturing weapons and releasing many prisoners from the jails. Ruiz negotiated between the EZLN and authorities even though his leftist activism made him suspect to many authorities. This would undermine efforts and eventually the Catholic Church would split from the Zapatista movement. However, the negotiations would lead to the San Andrés Accords and ended the rebellion peacefully. By the time he died in 2011, Subcomandante Marcos was locally given the name of “Tatic”, which means “father” in Tzotzil, and received numerous distinctions including the Simón Bolívar Prize from UNESCO and the International Human Rights Award in Nuremberg.

Tourism is based on the city’s history, culture and indigenous population, although the tourism itself has affected the city, giving it foreign elements. Major landmarks of the city include the Cathedral, the Santo Domingo church with its large open air crafts market and the Casa Na Bolom museum. The municipality has suffered severe deforestation, but it has natural attractions such as caves and rivers.

The city, especially the historic center, has maintained its Spanish colonial layout, with narrow cobblestone streets, roofs covered in red clay tile and wrought iron balconies with flowers. The facades of the buildings vary from Baroque to Neoclassical and Moorish, painted in various colors.

Milk delivery from local dairy farms still use canisters on donkeys, and farmers typically still use horses and donkeys for hauling wood and farmed goods within their own properties .

The city subdivides into three sections but the majority of the population lives in the central section near the city center. Many of the surrounding hills have lost their native trees, in part due to cutting firewood and logging operations which feed the local manufacturing and construction industries.

The center of the city is its main plaza. This plaza’s official name is Plaza 31 de marzo, but it is more often simply called the Zócalo. In the colonial era, the city’s main market was here as well as the main water supply. Today, it is centered on a kiosk which was added in the early 20th century. The corners of this structure have inscriptions marking the major events of San Cristóbal’s history. The rest of the plaza is filled with gardens and surrounded by the most important buildings and finest homes from the history of the city. Surrounding this plaza are the city’s most important buildings such as the Cathedral and the city hall.

The Cathedral is to the north of the main plaza and it is the most emblematic symbol of the city. However, the main facade does not face the Zócalo, rather it faces its own atrium which is called the Cathedral Plaza. The Cathedral began as a modest church dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption built in 1528. When Chiapas became a diocese in the 17th century, with San Cristóbal as its seat, this church was torn down to build the current structure, dedicated to Saint Christopher, the patron of the city. The overall structure contains European Baroque, Moorish and indigenous influences. The main facade was finished in 1721 and some final touches were added in the 20th century. The main feature of the church is its main facade, which was finished in 1721. It is Baroque painted yellow with ornamental columns and niches in which are various saints. It is divided into three horizontal and three vertical levels marked off by pairs of Solomonic columns and meant to resemble an altarpiece. It is further decorated with intricate raised stucco work mostly in white which show Oaxacan and Guatemalan influences. The layout of the interior shows Moorish influence. The main altar is dedicated to both the Virgin of the Assumption and Saint Christopher. The wood pulpit is from the 16th century and gilded. The side walls have two Baroque altarpieces, one to the Virgin of the Assumption and the other to John of Nepomuk. There is also a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe on the north side. The sacristy has a large colonial era paintings of Jesus in Gesethame by Juan Correa as well as paintings by Miguel Cabrera and Eusebio de Aguilar. It is common to see older indigenous women in the Cathedral, with some even traversing the entire nave on their knees to approach the large image of Jesus handing above the Baroque altar.

At the back of the Cathedral, there is an affixed church called the San Nicolás Temple. It was constructed between 1613 and 1621 in Moorish design by Augustinian monks for use by the indigenous population. It is the only church in the city which has not been significantly altered since its construction. The roof is pitched and pyramid shaped built with wood and tile, and its facade is made of stone and brick with little ornamentation. Two of its images, the Señor de la Misericordia and the Virgen de los Dolores are both from Guatemala.

The city hall, often called the Palacio de Gobierno, is a Neoclassical construction which was built in the 19th century by architect Carlos Z. Flores. It contains a series of arches supported by Tuscan columns. In front of the city hall at night, young men and women promenade past each other in opposite directions around the gazebo. The city hall is scene to fairly frequent protests, some directly associated with the Zapatistas and others are held by student activists from UNAM in Mexico City. These protests are generally accompanied by lines of riot police.

When Dominicans came to San Cristóbal from Seville, Spain, they were given an area of land to construct their church and monastery. The first stone was laid in 1547 by Francisco Marroqui, then Bishop of Guatemala. The monastery was finished in 1551. It is one of the most ornate structures in Latin America, both due to the stucco work on the main facade and the gilded altarpieces which completely cover the length on the church’s interior. The facade of the main church is Baroque with Salomonic columns heavily decorated in stucco forms to mimic an altarpiece. The interior has a pulpit carved of wood and covered in gold leaf. The walls are covered in Baroque altarpieces includes those dedicated to the Holy Trinity. The La Caridad Temple was constructed on the site in 1712, established as part of the first hospital for the indigenous. The main facade of this church is designed as an altarpiece with two levels, a central bell tower and Tuscan columns and pilasters. Its design is derived from the Baroque that developed in Lima, Peru. There is an image of the Virgen de la Caridad (Virgin of Charity) carrying a baton like a military general. There is also a notable sculpture of Saint James on horseback. The complex contains two museums. The Museo de la Historia de la Ciudad covers the history of the city until the 19th century. Of this collection, the two most important pieces are some petals of a pomegranate flower, from a receptacle for the Host in the Cathedral. It is one of the most important works of Chiapas silversmithing. The rest of the piece has been lost. The other is a part of the original choir seating of the same Cathedral. The Centro Cultural de los Altos has a collection of some of the area’s textiles from each ethnicity and exhibits on how they are made. It has a store associated with it called the Sna-Jolobil, which means house of weaving in Tzotzil

The La Merced monastery was the first in the city founded by the Mercedarians from Guatemala in 1537. It was built as a fortress with barracks for soldiers and space for citizens in case of attack. The church entrance has a massive wooden door with wrought iron hinges and fastenings. There are very few windows and those that exist are built to allow muskets to fire on attackers. The entire structure is built with extensions and abutments to provide for interlocking fields of fire. Entry to the fortifications is denied as too dangerous. The church still functions as such. It consists of a single nave, with interior remodeled in Neoclassical design during the Porfirio Díaz era. The oldest part of the structure is an arch and columns located in the interior of the sacristy, which is decorated in stucco of various colors with floral and vegetative motifs. At the foot of the column, there are two lions symbolizing Spanish domination. In the latter half of the 19th century, the structure was used as a military barracks and in 1960, it was converted into the city jail which it remained until 1993. In 2000 the former monastery was further converted into the Museum of Amber, which has a collection of over three hundred pieces and is the only one of its kind in the Americas.

The Carmen Temple and the Arco Torre, both in Moorish style, are located on Andador Eclesiastico. The Carmen Temple is all that remains of the former La Encarnación convent which was founded in 1597 with the first nuns arriving between 1609 and 1610. The complex includes the old cloister, nuns’ cells and other structures. The original church building burned and it was restored conserving its simple facade. One unusual feature of the church is that its layout is L-shaped, covering the south and west sides of a small plaza. Inside, the walls have carved wood panels and a Neoclassical altar which has been recently restored. In the colonial period, the convent and church served as one of the main entrances into the city. An arch with tower was constructed next to the convent in 1680, now simply called the Arco del Carmen. This arch is in pure Moorish style, with three levels of decoration. It is the only one of its style in Mexico. This arch with its accompanying tower has been adopted as one of the symbols of San Cristóbal.

The San Cristóbal Church is atop a long staircase up the hill. It is often closed but it offers panoramic views of the city. At the San Cristóbal church the patron saint is celebrated on 25 July with marimbas, food and fireworks. For ten days previously, each of the main neighborhoods has a pilgrimage to the top of the hill.

The San Francisco Church was built by the Franciscans in 1577 as a monastery but only the church survives. The current church was built in the 18th century with a single nave covered in a wood and tile roof. The main facade has three levels and two side towers. Inside, it has six Baroque altarpieces. The upper part of the nave has fourteen oil paintings. The atrium has a sculpted stone baptismal font.

The Guadalupe Church is located on the Cerro de Guadalupe. It was constructed in 1834. To reach it, there are seventy nine stairs up the hill. The church has a single nave with a side chapel. The main altar has an oil painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe and the side chapel contains a sculpture of the Virgin from 1850. The atrium affords panoramic views of the city. The feast of this Virgin is celebrated annually with a parade on the main street with fireworks, rockets and candlelight vigils.

The Santo Tomas Church is just north of the historic center. It has a museum in the back, in a building which was the barracks and parade grounds built when the city was founded.

The Santa Lucía Church was constructed in 1884 by architect Carlos Z. Flores over what was a dilapidated chapel. It consists of a single nave with pilasters on its walls and pointed arches. The main altar is Gothic with Neoclassical and Art Nouveau elements.

Casa de las Sirenas is one of the most notable domestic structures from the colonial era. It was built by Andrés de la Tovilla in Plateresque style and dates from the 16th century. It is named after a mermaid that appears on its crest in one of the corners. The Antiguo Colegio de San Francisco Javier today houses the Faculty of Law of the state university. It was founded by the Jesuits in 1681 for the education of the Spanish elite. Its current facade is two levels in Neoclassical style. The interior contains murals about the Spanish conquest of Mexico.

Casa Na Bolom (House of the Jaguar) is a museum, hotel and restaurant located outside the city’s historic center. The structure was built as part of a seminary in 1891, but it became the home of Frans Blom and Gertrude Duby Blom in the 20th century. Franz was an explorer and archeologist and Gertrude was a journalist and photographer. The couple spent over fifty years in Chiapas collecting tools, crafts, archeological pieces and clothing, especially related to the Lacandon Jungle and people. The museum is dedicated to this collection along with keeping some of the old household rooms intact, such as Franz’s study. It also contains a library with more than 10,000 volumes dedicated to the history, culture and anthropology of the region. There are also magazine and sound libraries as well as the old chapel which contains colonial era religious art. The back of the structure contains a botanical garden.

The Museo Mesoamericano del Jade has jade pieces from the Olmec, Teotihuacan, Mixtec, Zapotec, Maya, Toltec and Aztec cultures. There is also a life-sized replica of the burial chamber of Pakal of Palenque as it looked when the king was buried. The Maya Medicine Museum is dedicated to the various techniques and practices of indigenous medicine, many of which are still practiced today. The Museo de las Culturas Populares de Chiapas (Museum of Popular Cultures of Chiapas) is located on Diego de Mazariego Street. It is mostly dedicated to the indigenous cultures of the state with the aim of recuperating, valuing and promoting knowledge of these cultures in Chiapas and beyond. The museum has exhibits of many of these cultures and also sponsors live events related to its mission as well.

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Palenque

The municipality has a number of ecological features. The Gruta de San Cristóbal is one of a number of caves in the mountains around the city just off Federal Highway 190 heading towards Comitán. This particular cave was discovered by Vicente Kramsky in 1947.

The cave has only one entrance with lateral chambers. It has a total length of 10.2 km and a depth of 550 meters. The Rancho Nuevo cave has a path which extends 750 meters into the interior and is lit in various colors. Around the caves, there are campsites and horseback riding.

The municipality contains two ecological reserves called the Cerro Huitepec Private Reserve and the Rancho Nuevo Ecological Conservation Zone.

Another protected area is the El Arcotete Forest located 15 km northeast of the city. It contains a natural bridge which was part of an ancient cave that was worn away.

Palenque
Misol Ha
Canyon Sumidero

The city’s attraction for tourists has also led to a number making San Cristobal their permanent home, which has had an effect of the local culture, especially in the historic center. Many foreign residents have opened up restaurants with Italian, French, Thai, Indian, Chinese and more options, such as vegetarian available. An older foreign influence is the city’s noted cured meat tradition, which can be traced back to both the Spanish and the Germans. These are featured in a number of dishes including chalupas. Foreign influence can also be seen in the city’s nightlife which offers reggae, salsa, techno and more.

Traditional dishes are saffron tamales, sopa de pan, asado coleto, atole de granillo and a drink called posh made from sugar cane.

The city hosts an annual Amber Expo at the Centro de Convenciones Casa de Mazariegos. The event exhibits and sells amber and amber pieces from the area of the state.

Fireworks are common as there are many religious festivals which use them. Important celebrations include those dedicated to the Dulce Niño de Jesús, the Señor de Esquipulas, Saint Anthony, Corpus Christi, San Cristóbal and the Holy Family. This is in addition to the various neighborhood saint celebrations in their respective churches around town.

However, the most elaborate rituals are performed during Holy Week. Holy Week processions include both silent and chanting marchers. A number are dressed in pointed hoods and carry heavy platforms with religious figures. They go from house to house, stopping at those homes that have erected small shrines. There they say prayers and bless the house and its occupants before moving on. They finally come to rest in a gigantic open house where an inner shrine has been erected lit by thousands of candles, and where a large potluck supper takes place. All, even passersby, are welcome to partake. Passion plays depicting the crucifixion of Jesus are common events with one large one centered in the open plaza behind the municipal palace.

After dark, there is the Burning of Judas. The figures burned are plentiful and include, as well as Judas, government bureaucrats, church officials, army officers, US political figures, Spanish conquistadors, and popular celebrities. They are lit by local firemen who try to keep people back at a safe distance, but fireworks occasionally fall among the crowds anyway.

The Feria de la Primavera y la Paz (Spring and Peace Fair) runs concurrent with Holy Week, especially on Holy Saturday with music and costumes. It terminates with the burning of Judas. A queen is elected to be crowned the next day. Bullfights are held.

The Festival Cervantino Barroco is held each year in the historic center featuring invited artists from various parts of Mexico and abroad. It is held in various forums in the city and includes concerts, plays, exhibitions and conferences.

The most important manufactured goods produced in the city are jade, textiles and amber, although others such as ceramics, metal works, carved wood products, clothing and filigree jewelry can be found as well.

There is a large tianguis or open air market at Santo Domingo which specializes in selling these locally produced products.

San Cristóbal de las Casas is located 80 km from Tuxtla Gutiérrez on Highway 190.

It has an airport named Corazón de María 18 km outside the city proper.

The municipality has 193.17 km of highway, most of which is state highway connecting the city to Tuxtla Gutierrez and to points north such as Ocosingo and Palenque. There are also a number of rural roads (44.9 km) as well as roads maintained by the Secretarías de Obras Públicas, Desarrollo Rural, Defensa Nacional, and Comisión Nacional del Agua.

You can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.

Or dial the toll-free (in Mexico) number 01-800-006-8839.

You can also request information to the email correspondencia@sectur.gob.mx

MORE EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

General Information: 040 (not free)

National Emergency Service: 911

Radio Patrols: 066
Police (Emergency): 060
Civil Protection: +52(55)5683-2222
Anonymous Complaint: 089

Setravi (Transport Mobility): +52(55)5209-9913
Road Emergency: 074

Cruz Roja: 065 o +52(55)5557-5757
Firefighters: 068 o +52(55)5768-3700