Cuernavaca

The city spreads across hills and valleys about an hour south of Mexico City. Wide tree-lined boulevards lead to residential neighborhoods with garden walls, colonial buildings and parks shaded by jacaranda trees.

Hernán Cortés chose this location as his residence after the conquest and built sugar plantations that shaped the area for centuries. The warm temperature later attracted wealthy families from the capital who built weekend homes here.

The Palace of Cortés, constructed in 1535, exhibits Diego Rivera murals that detail the complete history of Morelos state through indigenous and colonial periods.

The main square with its arcades and cafés makes a good starting point for walks through the old town. Language schools are located in several neighborhoods and offer programs for different levels.

Jacaranda trees transform many streets into purple tunnels in spring when their blossoms fall and cover the ground. Locals often use the blooming season as a natural calendar for festivals and family gatherings.

Location: Cuernavaca Municipality

Inception: 1714

Elevation above the sea: 1,510 m

Website: http://cuernavaca.gob.mx

GPS coordinates: 18.91861,-99.23417

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:40