Mexico - Puebla - part one

Puebla was founded by Spanish settlers in 1531, quickly becoming an important Catholic centre, and the modern day city has retained much of its colonial charm. Your guided tour will take in some of its many highlights to enable you to experience an overall flavour of the city. You will visit the famous cathedral, which has been recognised by the central government, appearing on the Mexican 500 peso note, and which has been built on the south side of the charming central plaza. Building work started in 1550 but the most significant period of its construction occurred under the guidance of Bishop Juan de Palafox in the 1640s, and some of the paintings inside the cathedral are originals from the 17th century. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Santo Domingo Church built in 1611 and the Chapel of Rosaries, which was finished 80 years later in 1690 and which contains a beautifully ornate baroque proliferation of gilded plaster and carved stone. Please note that this tour is flexible and can be adapted to suit your preferences through discussions with your guide but while you explore Puebla's interesting street layout keep an eye out for the many iron balconies, which are typical of Puebla's architecture, as well as examples of the beautiful ornate tiles that adorn many buildings.