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WINTER | 2014
ARGENTINA MEXICO
Rich in mysterious ancient culture, Mexico boasts
a number of important archaeological sites, some
of which have UNESCO world heritage status.
These include the famous Mayan cities of Chichen
Itza (one of the New Seven Wonders of the
World), Coba, Palenque (famous for its elaborate
paintings), Ek Balam (with uniquely decorated
stucco and carved stone temples), Tulum (on the
coast, with spectacular views) and Uxmal; Monte
Albán (a Zapotec site from about 500BC); El Tajín,
Guanajuato (the Plazuelas and Peralta sites) and
Teotihuacan (with its large pyramids). The coun-
try is also home to 10 of the world’s 204 World
Heritage cities – Campeche (Mexico’s only walled
city); Guanajuato (beautiful Baroque architec-
ture); Mexico City (for its historic centre and the
Xochimilco National Park); Morelia (which has
113 000 historical monuments); Ozxaca de Juarez
(historic centre and Monte Alban); Puebla (known
as the Reliquary of America for its architectural
beauty); Santiago de Queretaro (the Pearl of the
Bajio, renowned for its Baroque buildings); San
Miguel de Allende (cultural diversity and unique
cathedral); Tlacotalpan (for its classic columns
and arches); and Zacatecas (for its historic centre
and pink stone monuments).
Even with limited time and budget, there are some
don’t-miss experiences. Top of the list is visit-
ing Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan. Chichen Itza
in the Yucatan Peninsula, with its landmark El
Castillo temple-pyramid, is one of Mexico’s most
visited tourist destinations. The temple design has
particular astronomical significance. Each face of
the pyramid has a stairway with 91 steps, which
together with the shared step at the top, add up
to 365, the number of days in a year. Also see the
Great Ballcourt and El Caracol. Amuch smaller
Mayan site can be found at Palenque. It has mag-
nificent architecture and sculptures, and just
50kmnorth-east of Mexico City lies the ancient
Aztec metropolis of Teotihuacán, with its great pyra-
mids, which dates back to the second century BC.
Mexico City is a fascinating city. It’s vast urban
sprawl makes it one of the largest metropolitan
areas in the world, which can be a little over-
whelming. But even if you’re just passing through,
take some time to see the historic centre, where
attractions include the Plaza de la Constitucion
(or Zocalo), the National Palace, Metropolitan
Cathedral, Templo Mayor, Palace of Fine Arts,
Alameda Park and Plaza Garibaldi.
FROM CARIBBEAN BEACHES TO ANCIENT RUINS
