Tecamachalco is a district located in the east of the Metropolitan Area of Puebla, in the state of Puebla in Mexico. It is bordered by the municipalities of Cholula and San Nicolás de los Ranchos to the north, San Andrés Cholula and San Pedro Cholula to the east, Atlixco and San José Chiapa to the south and the city of Puebla to the west. It is characterized by its weather and its typical agriculture, which limits the population.
Tecamachalco is mostly rural, consisting mainly of orchards, gardens, cattle farms and small businesses. Its main economic activity is the exploitation of resources from the land, such as the cultivation of cereals, legumes and corn, as well as the production of honey, goat cheese and other products typical of the area. The municipality also has an important industrial zone known as the E3 Tecamachalco Industrial Park, which houses companies such as Whirpool, Femsa, Autoliv and Nestlé.
In addition to its economic activity, Tecamachalco boasts a number of important attractions such as the Yataheed Seminar, the Parque de la Entomofauna, the artisan market of Taaltempa and archaeological sites such as the Cerrito del Calvario and Cerrito del Mangas. There are also several churches and chapels dedicated to various saints, as well as a number of natural attractions such as the Cerro de la Cruz, the El Diablo tree and the La Santa Cruz reservoir.
Tecamachalco is also known for its traditional gastronomy, featuring dishes such as mole poblano and cemitas, as well as local snacks such as gorditas and tlacoyos. There are a number of restaurants and street food kiosks in the municipality, serving both traditional and modern fare.
Tecamachalco is a district of the Apan municipality in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. It is located 165 kilometers (100 miles) north of the state capital of Puebla, Puebla. Tecamachalco was founded in 1895 and has an area of 224.7 square kilometers (86.9 square miles). The population at the 2020 census was 7,502 people. The climate is tropical with an average temperature of 24°C (75°F) and an average annual rainfall of 1,098 millimeters (43 inches). The most important economic activity in Tecamachalco is agriculture, with the main crops being maize, beans, sorghum, cotton, prickly pear and chili peppers. There is also a livestock industry in the area and the main economic activity for the population is the sale of crafts, there are small workshops dedicated to the elaboration of crafts of clay, yarn and other materials.
The best way to get to Tecamachalco district in Puebla is by car. Depending on where you are coming from, you may be able to take public transport, such as bus or metro, to get to the district. You can also take a taxi. Keep in mind that traffic in the area can be quite heavy, so it’s best to plan ahead and leave yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
1. Cuicatlán Cave – Located in the municipality of Huitzilan de Serdán in the district of Tecamachalco, the Cuicatlán Cave is a fascinating underground space with a great cultural and archeological significance. The archaeological site is estimated to be around 10,000 years old, offering an insight into the ancient cultures that lived in the region and left behind evidence of the lifestyle of its inhabitants. In the cave, you will find pictograms of animals and plants, along with artifacts and geological formations. The cave is open to the public and guided tours can be arranged.
2. Holy Cross Church – The Holy Cross Church is located in the center of Tecamachalco, built in the 17th Century in the Baroque style. The structure is composed of one main body and two towers, with a large vault and altar. Inside the church, you will find beautiful murals and paintings, as well as a unique wood carving of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
3. Tecamachalco Aqueduct – The historic Tecamtechalco Aqueduct is an impressive engineering feat that still stands today. Constructed in the 18th century to transport water from the neighbouring Amolca River to the small district of Tecamachalco, this aqueduct is one of the largest and best preserved monuments of colonial engineering that still exists in Mexico today. The aqueduct is composed of 29 arches and is still functioning.
4. San Miguel Arcangel Church – Dating back to the 16th century, the San Miguel Arcangel Church is one of the oldest architectural structures in the Puebla-Tecamachalco district. The church is built in the style of the Mudejar, with a single nave and a porticoed façade filled with carved stonework, such as crockets, gargoyles and medallions. The interior of the church houses ornate decorations as well, making it a historic and cultural site full of beauty.
1. Xitlaltepec Lake – Located in the northeastern part of the Tecamachalco district, Xitlaltepec Lake is a vibrant and colorful lake surrounded by lush vegetation. It is a great place for swimming, kayaking and fishing.
2. El Cerrito – This archaeological site features the remains of a pre-Hispanic Teotihuacan-style pyramid that is believed to be from the 2nd century AD. Visitors can also explore nearby plazas and bask in the area’s natural beauty.
3. La Mañanita – A secluded spot situated in the La Peña community, La Mañanita is a popular swimming and fishing spot. It’s also home to numerous endangered species of birds, making it a great destination for birdwatching.
4. La Cuesta de San Diego – La Cuesta de San Diego is a hilltop viewpoint known for its spectacular sunsets. The site also features a plaza and a bell tower, both of which offer stunning views of the city.
5. Las Tejas Hot Springs – Enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural mineral hot springs popularly known as Las Tejas. The springs are owned by a local family and are surrounded by lush vegetation.
6. Montecillos National Park – Montecillos National Park is an important ecological reserve located in the district of Tecamachalco. The park contains forests, creeks, rivers and numerous plant and animal species.
7. San Andrés Tecamachalco – This beautiful town is known for its colonial-era architecture and Baroque-style buildings. It is also home to the Spanish-style San Andrés church, which is a popular tourist attraction.
8. Santa Elena Ecological Park – Santa Elena Ecological Park is a great spot for a peaceful walk or bike ride. The park is home to many native plants and animals, and visitors can also observe the area’s local agricultural practices.
The Tecamachalco district of Puebla offers plenty of opportunities for travelers looking to experience the culture and outdoor beauty of the area.
For culture seekers, the Manzanares family estate is a must-see. Located on the edge of the city, it houses a colonial-era estate and gardens. There are a number of archaeological remains in the area, including several colonial churches and a colonial aqueduct.
If you’re looking for a more active getaway, Tecamachalco is home to several outdoor activities. Go hiking or horseback riding in the surrounding hills, or take a day trip to the nearby volcanoes. Bike or walk through the historic streets and soak in the local atmosphere.
The art-loving traveler will also find plenty of culture. The Puebla Estudio de Arte is a local art school that hosts classes, workshops and exhibitions, as well as regular performances by local musicians. The neighboring village of San Andres Cholula has a number of colonial-era churches, galleries and museums.
No matter what kind of traveler you are, Tecamachalco district of Puebla has something to offer. From cultural attractions to outdoor activities, there’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful area.