Malinalco + Chalma

Description

The archaeological zone of Cuauhtinchan is located on a mountain, in the valley of Malinalco. Access to the site by stairs that have brief explanations at each break.

The main temple, called Cuauhcalli, was built in 1501 and is famous in the world for its monolithic character,  it was carved on the living stone, in one piece.

In the interior of the Cuauhcalli they are carved on the stone, a skin with head of jaguar and an eagle on both sides. It is believed that the initiation ceremonies of the Eagle and Tiger Warriors were held there, the most important orders in the Mexican military hierarchy. Among the best known is Cuauhtemoc, the last Aztec emperor.

The frame of entrance to the enclosure is the mouth of a snake with protruding tusks and a long forked tongue carved on the floor, like a carpet.

The population of Malinalco also offers us:

The Luís Mario Schneider University Museum, with high standards and local guides, shows us how important this site was, with replicas of the monolith, prehispanic pieces and samples of indigenous herbalism.

The Augustinian Convent of the sixteenth century, "of the Divine Savior", built in 1543,

And to the date totally restored, it counts on beautiful murals realized by indigenous artists of the place. It is a building that stands out, nationally, for its beauty and state of conservation.

The center of Malinalco, with its cobbled streets, also offers handicrafts typical products like fruit snow, pink guavas, organic coffee, bread in the portals and several restaurants to choose from.

The Sanctuary of the Lord of Chalma, located 10 km away, is one of the most visited Catholic sanctuaries in the country and which they consider very miraculous.