San Cristóbal de las Casas is a unique combination of traditional Maya culture, old colonial architecture, awe inspiring natural beauty, and a vibrant artisan community.
Overview
Tucked away in the pine-filled cloud forest in the state of Chiapas, Mexico, San Cristobal de las Casas is an intriguing combination of old colonial Spanish architecture, traditional Maya communities, and new political movements.
Rich in cultural history, vibrant nightlife, beautiful churches, local ecological wonders, and temperate climate, San Cristobal de las Casas is one of Mexico’s greatest travel destinations.
Geography
Population (as of 2005 census): 142,000
Elevation: 2100 meters (7,000 feet)
San Cristobal de las Casas lays in a valley surrounded by mountains. The high elevation and mountainous protection afford the city a relatively temperate climate compared to the lower elevations in Southern Mexico.
To the West of the city lays Huitepec, an ancient volcanic reserve that includes the Santa Anita holy site along with a cloud forest which is a popular exploration site for ecotourists.
History
The region in and around San Cristobal de las Casas has been inhabited by Maya peoples, particularly Tzotzils and Tzeltals, since pre-Hispanic times.
In 1528, Diego de Mazariegos, a Spanish conquistador, established this fortified city, protected by the rivers and the mountains, as a base to combat the Zoques and Chiapanecos.
In 1545, Bartolomé de las Casas arrived with other monks to protect the interests of the indigenous people. He is still fondly remembered and the city owes its name to him along with Saint Cristopher.
Religion
The predominant religion in the area is Catholicism. Though, like in the nearby Maya towns, the Catholic rituals and beliefs usually combine Maya traditions.
The city is marked by many beautiful colonial churches: colorfully painted, old Spanish architecture, and the incorporation of traditional Maya symbols make these fascinating sites to visit.
Because the city is set up as a fortified city and churches were used as combat points, the oldest churches are situated at the four corners of the city center on hills which makes it easy to orient oneself.
When men and women enter churches, dress respectfully. Women should cover shoulders, arms, and legs and men should remove their hats.
Zapatistas
While the city was made globally famous by the Zapatista uprising in 1994, it is still used as a center for political change in Mexico. While the uprising only lasted a few weeks, the Zapatistas still use the city as a location for making announcements and generating press. In recent years, the population of the city has steadily increased due to displacement of local Maya people as a result of the low intensity war still being waged by the Mexican government throughout Chiapas.
The regional conflict poses no threat to tourists and visitors.
See Also:
Nearby Outings:
San Juan Chamula - A Traditional Maya Community
Other Maya Communities Near San Cristobal
Zaptista News:
Zapatistas March to San Cristobal de las Casas
