Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro
Location: Querétaro Mexico
Year of Inscription: 2003
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
Overview: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro are a set of five missions located in the rugged Sierra Gorda mountain range in the state of Querétaro, Mexico. Built between 1754 and 1768, these missions were established by the Franciscan Order to evangelize the indigenous people of the region and serve as centers of community life. Today, they are recognized as outstanding examples of the baroque architecture of the New Spain and as important sites of religious and cultural significance.
Prominent Features: The five missions that make up the Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro are:
History: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro were built during a period of intense evangelization in New Spain. The Franciscan Order was instrumental in the conversion of the indigenous people of the region, who were often resistant to Spanish colonization. The missions served as centers of community life and were often the site of important cultural and religious events.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro offer a range of family-friendly activities, including:
Fun Fact: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro were built using a unique construction technique called "tapial". This technique involves using a wooden frame to create walls out of a mixture of adobe, clay, and other materials. The result is a durable and earthquake-resistant structure that is still standing after
Entry Fees: The entry fee for each mission is 50 pesos (approximately 2.50 USD).
There is also a combined ticket available that includes admission to all five missions, which costs 200 pesos (approximately 10 USD).
How to Reach it: The missions are located in remote areas, and public transportation to them can be limited. The best way to reach them is by car or by joining a guided tour.
Where to Stay: There are several towns and villages near the missions where you can find accommodation. Some popular ones include Jalpan de Serra, Xilitla, and Pinal de Amoles.
Next Stop: Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro
Year of Inscription: 2003
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
Overview: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro are a set of five missions located in the rugged Sierra Gorda mountain range in the state of Querétaro, Mexico. Built between 1754 and 1768, these missions were established by the Franciscan Order to evangelize the indigenous people of the region and serve as centers of community life. Today, they are recognized as outstanding examples of the baroque architecture of the New Spain and as important sites of religious and cultural significance.
Prominent Features: The five missions that make up the Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro are:
- Santiago de Jalpan: Founded in 1751, this mission was the first to be built in the Sierra Gorda. It features a baroque façade with intricate carvings and sculptures, as well as a large central courtyard with a fountain.
- Nuestra Señora de la Luz de Tancoyol: Built between 1754 and 1762, this mission is known for its ornate façade, which features sculptures of saints and angels.
- San Francisco del Valle de Tilaco: Established in 1754, this mission is situated in a remote valley and features a simple yet elegant baroque façade.
- Santa María del Agua de Landa: Founded in 1760, this mission features a beautiful baroque façade with intricate carvings and sculptures. It also has a large central courtyard and a bell tower.
- San Miguel Concá: Built between 1761 and 1768, this mission is located in a scenic valley and features a baroque façade with a relief of the Virgin Mary and a large central courtyard.
History: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro were built during a period of intense evangelization in New Spain. The Franciscan Order was instrumental in the conversion of the indigenous people of the region, who were often resistant to Spanish colonization. The missions served as centers of community life and were often the site of important cultural and religious events.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro offer a range of family-friendly activities, including:
- Guided tours: Visitors can take guided tours of each of the missions to learn about their history, architecture, and significance.
- Hiking: The Sierra Gorda mountain range offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Cultural events: Throughout the year, the missions host a range of cultural events, including traditional dances and music performances.
Fun Fact: The Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro were built using a unique construction technique called "tapial". This technique involves using a wooden frame to create walls out of a mixture of adobe, clay, and other materials. The result is a durable and earthquake-resistant structure that is still standing after
Entry Fees: The entry fee for each mission is 50 pesos (approximately 2.50 USD).
There is also a combined ticket available that includes admission to all five missions, which costs 200 pesos (approximately 10 USD).
How to Reach it: The missions are located in remote areas, and public transportation to them can be limited. The best way to reach them is by car or by joining a guided tour.
- If you are driving, you can take the Federal Highway 120 from Querétaro City and follow the signs to each mission. The distance between the missions ranges from 15 to 70 km, and the roads can be steep and winding.
- If you prefer to join a tour, there are several tour operators that offer day trips from Querétaro City or San Miguel de Allende. Some popular ones include Sierraventura, Bambú Eco-tours, and Sierras de Querétaro.
Where to Stay: There are several towns and villages near the missions where you can find accommodation. Some popular ones include Jalpan de Serra, Xilitla, and Pinal de Amoles.
- In Jalpan de Serra, you can find hotels, guesthouses, and camping sites. Some popular options include Hotel Mision Jalpan, Hotel Hacienda Pena Pobre, and Rancho El Pitayo.
- In Xilitla, you can find a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular ones include Hostal Casa Ganesha, Hotel del Portal Xilitla, and El Castillo Hotel.
- In Pinal de Amoles, you can find rustic cabins and camping sites. Some popular options include Eco-Camping El Sabino and Las Nubes Cabanas.
Next Stop: Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro