Tlaxcala Attractions

Templo de San Francisco

Built between 1537 and 1540, this is an important place in Tlaxcalan history as it depicts the baptismal font used for the Tlaxcalan chiefs who were first baptized by the Spaniards. Located two blocks from the main plaza, this church boasts an elaborate Moorish ceiling below the choir loft and a painting of Third Order depicting the baptism of the chiefs.

A 16th century wonder, the former monastery houses the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and is reminiscent of the monastery fortresses of the Middle Ages with its grand façade.

Palacio Gobierno

Located right on the central zócalo, the Government Palace is an impressive building that features detailed and colorful murals painted by local legend Desiderio Hernández Xochitiotzin.This building was formerly the residence of Hernán Cortéz and several viceroys. This two-story structure was built in 1545, and the arches on the seond floor are made from stone carved with floral designs.

Tizatlan Botanical Garden

Located at KM 3 of the Tlaxcala-Chiautempan highway, at 2040 meters above sea level, this garden features a humid, cool climate. The garden is mostly flat, and surrounded by urban land. Here you will find the original vegetation of riparian forest consisting of tropical alders and willows, as well as Mexican white pines, dock sorrel and drooping junipers.

The garden also features various sections: aquatic plants, edible and medicinal plants, cactaceae and succulents as well as a greenhouse and a nursery garden.