Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro
Location: Querétaro Mexico
Year of Inscription: 1996
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;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro is a cultural heritage site located in the state of Querétaro in Mexico. The zone includes a collection of well-preserved colonial buildings, plazas, churches, and public spaces that reflect the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of the Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro include:
History: The area was established in the 16th century as a strategic point on the route between Mexico City and Zacatecas, and its historic buildings reflect the architectural styles of the Baroque, neoclassical, and neo-Gothic periods.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Fun Fact: It was the site of several key events in Mexico's fight for independence, including the secret meetings that led to the conspiracy of Querétaro, a key event in the movement.
Entry Fees: The Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro is free to enter and explore. Visitors can enjoy the many historic buildings, churches, and plazas without paying any fees. However, some of the museums and cultural centers located within the zone may charge an entrance fee. For example, the Regional Museum of Querétaro, located in the former Convent of San Francisco, charges a small fee for entry.
How to Reach it: By Bus: from Mexico City several bus companies operate frequent services between Mexico City and Querétaro, including Primera Plus, ETN, and Autobuses de Oriente (ADO). The journey takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic, and tickets cost between MXN 250-350 (approximately USD 12-17) each way.
By Train: from Mexico City, the Mexico City-Querétaro high-speed rail line, also known as the "Tren Interurbano," is currently under construction and is expected to start operating in 2024. Once operational, the journey between Mexico City and Querétaro will take around 1 hour, and tickets are expected to cost around MXN 300-400 (approximately USD 15-20) each way.
Where to Stay: There are plenty of options for accommodation in Querétaro, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, there are several hostels and guesthouses located in the city center, such as Hostal Galerie Querétaro and Hostal Casa del Atrio. These options usually offer shared rooms and facilities, making them great for solo travelers or those on a tight budget.
If you prefer more upscale accommodations, there are also several hotels and resorts located in the city, such as the NH Querétaro and the Fiesta Americana Querétaro. These hotels offer more amenities and services, such as room service, pools, and fitness centers.
Next Stop: Protective town of San Miguel and the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco 66km to the northwest
Year of Inscription: 1996
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;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro is a cultural heritage site located in the state of Querétaro in Mexico. The zone includes a collection of well-preserved colonial buildings, plazas, churches, and public spaces that reflect the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of the Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro include:
- The Aqueduct of Querétaro, a well-preserved 18th-century aqueduct that stretches over 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) and features 74 arches
- The Plaza de Armas, the city's main square, which features the iconic Templo de Santa Cruz and the Palacio de Gobierno
- The Casa de la Corregidora, a historic mansion that was once the home of the city's governor and now serves as a museum
- The Templo de San Francisco, a Baroque-style church that features ornate facades and a richly decorated interior
- The Jardín Zenea, a public park that features fountains, sculptures, and a bandstand
History: The area was established in the 16th century as a strategic point on the route between Mexico City and Zacatecas, and its historic buildings reflect the architectural styles of the Baroque, neoclassical, and neo-Gothic periods.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Visiting the Parque Bicentenario, a large park that features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lake.
- Exploring the Jardín Zenea, a picturesque park that features fountains, benches, and street performers.
- Taking a tour of the Museo del Chocolate, a museum dedicated to the history and production of chocolate.
Fun Fact: It was the site of several key events in Mexico's fight for independence, including the secret meetings that led to the conspiracy of Querétaro, a key event in the movement.
Entry Fees: The Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro is free to enter and explore. Visitors can enjoy the many historic buildings, churches, and plazas without paying any fees. However, some of the museums and cultural centers located within the zone may charge an entrance fee. For example, the Regional Museum of Querétaro, located in the former Convent of San Francisco, charges a small fee for entry.
How to Reach it: By Bus: from Mexico City several bus companies operate frequent services between Mexico City and Querétaro, including Primera Plus, ETN, and Autobuses de Oriente (ADO). The journey takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic, and tickets cost between MXN 250-350 (approximately USD 12-17) each way.
By Train: from Mexico City, the Mexico City-Querétaro high-speed rail line, also known as the "Tren Interurbano," is currently under construction and is expected to start operating in 2024. Once operational, the journey between Mexico City and Querétaro will take around 1 hour, and tickets are expected to cost around MXN 300-400 (approximately USD 15-20) each way.
Where to Stay: There are plenty of options for accommodation in Querétaro, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, there are several hostels and guesthouses located in the city center, such as Hostal Galerie Querétaro and Hostal Casa del Atrio. These options usually offer shared rooms and facilities, making them great for solo travelers or those on a tight budget.
If you prefer more upscale accommodations, there are also several hotels and resorts located in the city, such as the NH Querétaro and the Fiesta Americana Querétaro. These hotels offer more amenities and services, such as room service, pools, and fitness centers.
Next Stop: Protective town of San Miguel and the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco 66km to the northwest