Tepoztlán

Tepoztlán is a town in Morelos state, surrounded by limestone cliffs that rise steeply above the cobblestone lanes and red-tile roofs. In the center, a plaza opens with arcades and gardens, while paths wind through cornfields and orchards with old trees in the outer neighborhoods.

The settlement began in pre-Hispanic times and later became a place where Dominican friars built a church and tried to convert the local people. The area gained new attention in the 20th century when it was rediscovered by artists and scholars interested in its past.

The name comes from Tepoztecatl, a deity from pre-Hispanic times who still appears in local songs and stories. Families visit on weekends to walk the streets, buy fresh fruit, and rest in the shady courtyards of colonial buildings.

Most shops and restaurants are within walking distance of the main plaza, while the streets climb uphill toward the viewpoints. The trails to the higher points require proper shoes and can be slippery on rainy days.

The sunlight hits the cliffs in the early morning in a way that makes the rock glow golden and red, a sight many miss when they arrive later. Some of the old houses still have wells in the courtyard fed by underground springs that flow all year.