Querétaro

One of our favorite trips ever was the two weeks we spent Querétaro, Mexico. Many of my colleagues in the auto industry have spent a lot of time there on work trips but few of them had the time to explore the squares and jardins like we were able to do. We planned to spend both weeks in Spanish immersion classes, but that really only occupied the mornings, leaving the afternoons free for food, beer, and photos.

Querétaro is known for being tied to the start of the Mexican War of Independence. Quick, what date was that?

No, it’s not Cinco de Mayo. It’s 16 September 1810, when Mexico declared their independence from Spain.

The city is gorgeous, with an aqueduct as the center piece.

When we arrived by bus we were in the center of the old city and wondered why the riot police were around.

As we walked through the streets we realized why. There was a group of people gathered in the Plaza de la Independencia.

Seems a little ironic to see communists protesting in independence square. “Please take our freedom…”

Anyway, the city is beautiful, filled with many gorgeous churches.

We saw a parade of the indigenous people.

And the general architecture is so photogenic.

We spent many afternoons at Harry’s Bar watching life in the city.

I was initially irritated by all the wires in the way when trying to take photos, but then I realized they were part of the charm. I’ve not seen many places with such crazy wiring.

Since Querétaro is a home to the idea of independence there are quite a few statues and monuments throughout the city.

We often reminisce fondly of our time in Querétaro. It’s such a beautiful city and has a calm, welcoming feel to it. There aren’t many American tourists and it’s far from the party atmosphere of Cancún. Surrounded by cities like San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato, it’s a wonderful place to experience the real heart of Mexico.

~ Freddy