What is Tequisquiapan? An in-Depth Guide to the Charming Town in Mexico

Tequisquiapan, also known as Tequis, is a lovely, small town located in the Mexican state of Queretaro de Arteaga. It lies about halfway between Queretaro and Mexico City, making it an ideal stopover for those wanting to explore both.With its cobbled streets, vibrant art community and delicious cuisine, the beautiful city of Tequisquiapan offers many unique experiences and sightseeing opportunities. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the charming town and its attractions.

History of Tequisquiapan

The city of Tequisquiapan has a long and colorful history. The name “Tequisquiapan” is derived from indigenous Nahuatl words and means “place of birds in water.” The city is thought to have been founded in 1531 by the Otomi people.Tequis was later taken over by the Spanish, who made it the capital for their province. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, it grew in popularity as a vacation spot for wealthy Native and Spanish people. The city was designated as a national architecture heritage site in 1982.

Things to Do in Tequisquiapan

Tequisquiapan is a delightful city full of colonial buildings, parks and cultural attractions. Here are just a few things you can do during your visit:

Visit the Handcraft Markets

The handcraft markets of Tequisquiapan are world famous and an absolute must-see. Here you’ll find locally made pottery, jewelry and textiles. All the crafts are incredibly intricate and feature a variety of color palettes. For anyone looking for a unique souvenir, there’s no better place to look.

Explore the Local Art Scene

Tequisquiapan embraces its vibrant art scene wholeheartedly. There’s an abundance of galleries here, some of which host regular expositions. There is also La Tecleña – a collective of local artist studios you can explore. If you’d like to support the local art community, visiting La Tecleña is a great way to show your appreciation.

Go Wine Tasting

If you’re looking for a unique activity in Tequisquiapan, don’t miss out on wine tasting. The region is known for its signature red wine, made from grapes grown locally in the surrounding vineyards. Many wineries are open to the public, so you can take your time sampling the wines and admiring the stunning countryside views.

Visit the National Crafts Museum

The Museo Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Mexicanos is a must for lovers of history and transportation. This former railway station now houses a large collection of model trains and crafts from Mexican railway networks from all over the country. It’s interesting, educational and an excellent place to learn more about Mexico’s iconic railway system.

Things to Eat in Tequisquiapan

Tequisquiapan’s cuisine is infused with indigenous ingredients and flavors, combined with Spanish influences. Here are just some of the local specialities you should try:

Pambazo

Pambazo is a beloved Mexican snack consisting of fried rolls stuffed with potatoes and chorizo or veggies. You’ll find it filling vendors carts in every corner of Tequisquiapan.

Molote

Also known as “molote ranchero”, this dish consists of fried pastries filled with either vegetables or meat. The soft shell makes them extremely addictive, so be careful not to eat too many!

Tasajo

Tasajo is a specialty from the city of Tequisqiuapan made from thinly sliced beef. The beef is usually served with rice, refried beans and enchiladas or tacos. It’s an ideal dish for anyone looking for something a bit more filling during their visit.

Chirrinchés

A delightful dessert, chirrinchés consist of sweet corn flakes mixed with honey. The mixture is then deep-fried in vegetable oil until it’s golden brown. This dish is sweet enough to satisfy any discerning sweet tooth – worth a try!

Wine

We’ve already mentioned that Tequisqiuapan is home to some fantastic wineries – so be sure to include some bottles in your visit! It’s an ideal way to sample tastings from local producers and get to know their wines better.

Where to Stay in Tequisquiapan

There’s no shortage of cozy places to stay in Tequisquiapan. From luxury villas to quaint hotels and B&Bs, you’ll find something to suit every budget and style. Here are some of our favorite places:

Casa Las Espuelas Azules

Casa Las Espuelas Azules offers luxurious accommodation with scenic views right on the main square in Tequisquiapan. This beautiful hotel has tastefully decorated rooms, a charming pool and spa area, as well as a world-class restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine or international dishes.

Hotel Los Corales Verdes

This comfortable, family-run hotel is situated amidst lush gardens just outside Tequisquiapan’s historical center. Offering all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay, Hotel Los Corales Verdes is an ideal choice for those seeking some peace and quiet after busy days exploring the city sights.

Hotel Campanario de Dolores

If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, Hotel Campanario de Dolores should definitely be on your list. This traditional farmhouse is beautifully decorated with locally-made furniture and handicrafts, giving it an authentic atmosphere. Enjoy relaxing moments surrounded by lush fields, or explore nearby galleries and ruins during your stay here.

Conclusion

Tequisquiapan offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for bustling markets or tranquil surroundings. With its signature food, buildings and art community, the city has plenty to offer – plus its convenient location makes it an ideal stopover on any trip around Mexico or Central America. With its rich history, vibrant attractions, unique cuisine and peaceful atmosphere, Tequisqiuapan should definitely be on everyone’s list when planning their next getaway.