Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico
Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico-Located just north west of Mexico City, why is a unique town in central Mexico. This city is known for its amazing cathedrals, food, statues, and awesome Vendors!Queretaro is mainly known for the important role it played in the Mexican war for Independence from Spain. But also it’s a renown area for its vineyards and the spectacular Sierra Gorda, the mountain areas with incredible diverse ecosystems.
However, it is good to note that this is also a safer place to visit in Mexico due to the fact that the cartels have a truce here, and are not allowed to attack the locals or each other within this given region or the truce will be broken.
Here are some key facts about Santiago de Querétaro:
Historical Significance: Querétaro has a significant place in Mexican history. It played a crucial role in the Mexican War of Independence against Spanish colonial rule. It was in Querétaro that the conspiracy to overthrow Spanish rule was hatched by Miguel Hidalgo and other revolutionary leaders.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The historic center of Querétaro was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 due to its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings that reflect its past as a major stop on the silver trade route.
Architecture: The city is renowned for its beautiful colonial architecture, including churches, monasteries, and mansions that date back to the 16th century. The iconic aqueduct, built in the 18th century, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
Economic Hub: Querétaro is also an important industrial and economic center in Mexico. The city has seen significant growth in sectors such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and technology, making it one of Mexico’s fastest-growing cities.
Cultural Heritage: The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, galleries, and cultural events. The city’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various festivals, including the International Film Festival and the Santiago Apostol Fair.
Education: Querétaro is home to several universities and research institutions, making it an important educational hub in Mexico. The presence of these institutions contributes to the city’s intellectual and cultural vibrancy.
Quality of Life: The city is known for its high quality of life and relatively low crime rate. Its well-preserved historic district, combined with modern amenities, makes it an attractive place to live and visit.
Tourism: Querétaro is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical charm, cultural offerings, and pleasant climate. Many tourists come to explore the city’s colonial architecture, historic sites, and nearby natural attractions.
Culinary Scene: The city’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional Mexican cuisine and international influences. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of dining options, from street food to upscale restaurants.
Geographic Location: Querétaro is situated in central Mexico, making it a strategic location for transportation and trade routes. It is well-connected by highways, and the Querétaro International Airport provides both domestic and international flights.
Overall, Santiago de Querétaro is a city that beautifully combines its historical past with modern development, making it a unique and vibrant destination in Mexico.
Ok cool, but how is the food?
Querétaro offers a diverse and delicious culinary scene that reflects the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. Here are some traditional dishes and food items you might want to try while visiting Querétaro:
Gorditas: These are thick, round masa cakes that are split open and filled with various toppings like cheese, chicharrón (fried pork rinds), beans, and salsa.
Enchiladas Queretanas: These enchiladas are a local specialty, often made with a red chili sauce and filled with cheese, pulled chicken, or other fillings. They are typically topped with cream, cheese, and lettuce.
Barbacoa: A traditional dish of slow-cooked, tender meat, often made from lamb or beef. It’s seasoned with various spices and traditionally cooked in an underground pit.
Escamoles: Known as “ant eggs,” escamoles are a unique delicacy made from ant larvae harvested from the agave plant. They are often sautéed with butter and served in tacos or other dishes.
Tamales: These are a staple of Mexican cuisine. Tamales are made from masa (corn dough) filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, cheese, chilies, and vegetables, then wrapped in corn husks and steamed.
Chiles en Nogada: Although this dish is associated with the Puebla region, you can find it in Querétaro as well. It consists of poblano chilies stuffed with a mixture of ground meat and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate seeds.
Cecina: This is thinly sliced, seasoned, and dried beef or pork that is often grilled or cooked quickly. It’s commonly served as a taco filling or as part of a larger meal.
Quesadillas: In Querétaro, quesadillas are often made with blue corn tortillas and stuffed with cheese and other fillings. They can be served with various salsas and toppings.
Sopes: Similar to gorditas, sopes are thick corn tortillas with raised edges, topped with beans, meat, cheese, lettuce, cream, and salsa.
Atole: A traditional Mexican hot drink made from masa, water or milk, and sweetened with cane sugar. It’s often flavored with vanilla, chocolate, cinnamon, or other ingredients.
Pulque: This traditional fermented beverage is made from the sap of the agave plant. It has a slightly sour taste and is often enjoyed in small, rustic pulquerías.
Traditional Sweets: Look out for local sweets like cajeta (a caramel-like sauce made from goat’s milk), dulces de leche, and crystallized fruits.
- Huevos Divorciados: Literally translates to divorced eggs. They take 2-3 corn tortillas, fill them with ham and cheese. They then fry this, add red sauce on one side, and green on the other, and place two eggs on top with cotija cheese and spices.
Querétaro’s cuisine offers a wonderful blend of traditional flavors and local ingredients that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. When visiting the city, exploring local markets, street food stalls, and traditional restaurants will give you a true taste of the gastronomic delights the region has to offer.
My overall opinion of the city is that it is quite modern, and has a lot to offer from sightseeing to bars, restaurants to cathedrals, and even live bands at times. I felt really safe here, the only thing I wish they had more of was seafood. So get out and enjoy Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico- and forget what the news says as they are notorious for lying to us. I hope you will be able to go see and enjoy yourself abroad!
