What to do in tepoztlán morelos?
Tepoztlán is one of Mexico's magical towns with a rich history dating back to pre-Hispanic times. Known for being the birthplace of Quetzalcoatl, one of the most important deities in Mesoamerican mythology, Tepoztlán has been a cultural and spiritual center for centuries. Its name comes from the Nahuatl language and is commonly interpreted as "place of the copper axe" or "place of Tepoztécatl", the god of pulque and fertility. This is a destination that combines history, culture and nature in a unique way. Find out in this Hertz Mexico article what to do in Tepoztlán in one day.
How to get there?
Tepoztlán is located in the state of Morelos, about 40 minutes from Cuernavaca by car. To get there from Cuernavaca, rent a car with Hertz Mexico and take the Autopista del Sol (Mexico 95D) north. Exit at the Tepoztlán exit and follow the signs to the center of town. In case you are in CDMX, Hertz Mexico has different offices for car rental. To get there, take the Mexico-Cuernavaca Highway (Mexico 95D) south. Exit at the Tepoztlán exit just past the Oacalco toll booth and in less than two hours you will be at your destination.
Places to visit in Tepoztlán
As we said, this magical town surrounds you with its fascinating history, culture and nature. Discover all the activities in Tepoztlán that you can do in one day:
Market and Handicrafts Tianguis.
The Tepoztlán market is a must for those who want to experience local life and enjoy the regional gastronomy. Tepozteca gastronomy is one of the great attractions of the place and, every day, vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, from fruits and vegetables to freshly made tortillas. It is also a great chance for you to try the best pre-Hispanic cuisine, serving the most traditional dishes of the region and some delicious itacates that you will love. On weekends, the market transforms and grows with the arrival of the handicrafts market. This colorful tianguis is famous for its unique handcrafted products, made by local artisans and those from other regions of Mexico. Here, you can find traditional souvenirs and authentic works of art. From a hand-woven huipil, poncho or hat, to jewelry made of gold, silver or stainless steel. You can also find beautiful objects symbolic of Tepoztlán, such as paintings in pictures, rugs or pendants, to key chains, alebrijes, dream catchers or wind chimes. No visit to Tepoztlán is complete without trying the famous Tepoznieves. Near the main market and town square is the ice cream parlor, founded in 1960. It is known for its creative and delicious traditional ice cream flavors, such as vanilla and chocolate and more exotic ones, such as corn, tequila and avocado.
Templo de Tepoztecatl (Temple of Tepoztecatl)
One of Tepoztlán's most distinctive icons is the Temple of Tepoztecatl, located at the top of Tepozteco Hill. This ancient pre-Hispanic temple, dedicated to the god Tepoztecatl, deity of pulque and fertility, offers a spiritual connection to the past and a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tepoztlán valley. The hike to the temple is challenging, with an ascent of approximately two kilometers up a steep, rocky trail, but it is a rewarding experience. Along the way, you can enjoy the lush vegetation and the diversity of flora and fauna that inhabit the area, making the tour an opportunity to connect with nature and the serenity of the surroundings. Built in the 12th century by the Tlahuicas, a branch of the Nahua, the temple has been a place of pilgrimage and worship for centuries. The remains of the temple, although modest in size, are significant for their location and history. Archaeologists have discovered that the temple was used for important religious ceremonies, and even today, during the spring equinox, rituals are performed to receive the sun's energy. In addition to its spiritual and cultural importance, the Temple of Tepoztecatl offers spectacular views of the valley and the town of Tepoztlán. This site is not only a testimony of Tepoztlán's rich cultural heritage, but also a place of peace and contemplation that invites reflection and contact with Mexico's ancestral history. Undoubtedly, a must on your visit to Tepoztlán.
Ex Convent of the Nativity and Museum
The Ex Convent of the Nativity, built in the 16th century by Dominican missionaries, is another historical jewel of Tepoztlán. This majestic convent and its adjacent church are recognized for their colonial architecture, characterized by thick stone walls and a sober and elegant design, representative of the Spanish Renaissance style. The main façade, decorated with ornamental details and original mural paintings, highlights the artistic influence of the period. In 1994, the convent was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as part of the group of early 16th century missions on the slopes of Popocatepetl. This recognition underscores the cultural and historical importance of the site, which was a center of evangelization and education for the local indigenous communities during colonial times. Today, the Ex Convento de la Natividad houses a museum that exhibits a varied collection of historical, religious and ethnographic objects. Among the exhibits are paintings, sculptures, liturgical vestments and ancient documents that narrate the history of the region and daily life in the convent. The exhibits also include pieces of sacred art and tools used by the missionaries in their evangelizing work. The museum provides a deep insight into the history and culture of Tepoztlán and its surroundings. It is also an active space where cultural events, temporary exhibitions and educational activities are held, making it a dynamic and relevant place for the local community and tourists. To explore Tepoztlán is to enter a world where past and present coexist harmoniously, offering a fascinating glimpse into Mexico's traditions and contemporary life. Go ahead, rent a car with Hertz Mexico and tour the attractions of this magical town in one day.