Cerro de las Campanas

Cerro de las Campanas is a national park in northern Santiago de Querétaro, with a hill of volcanic rock and a memorial chapel at the summit. The park spreads across open ground with walking paths, shaded trees, and several permanent exhibition rooms at the base of the climb.

In June 1867, Emperor Maximilian I was executed here alongside two Mexican generals, sealing the end of French intervention. The republic returned under Benito Juárez, and the hill was later declared a national park.

The chapel from 1900 stands where Maximilian spent his final morning, holding a wooden cross made from the vessel that carried him to Mexican shores. Visitors walk quietly through the space while sunlight filters through stained glass onto the stone walls.

The park opens daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the climb taking about 20 minutes along a paved path. Guided tours through the five exhibition rooms at the entrance provide background before walking the grounds.

The volcanic rocks produce a clear, bell-like sound when struck, caused by their mineral composition of bronze, silver, copper, and antimony. This natural effect gave the hill its name and can be heard in calm weather.