Cholula is on the outskirts of Puebla, a city of 3.8mln people. Cholula has around 150K in the city proper and about 250k in the surrounding neighborhoods. Puebla has a large – albeit little used international airport, mainly to receive parts from large cargo planes from Germany for the VW plant there.

The whole area is filled with culture and history, and ticks most, if not all the checkboxes for places I would want to move to in retirement (tomorrow or in 10 years is undecided). We stayed here for two weeks to get a feel for the vibes, layout, and offerings the area has.

Puebla City

This city was the center of the battle against the invading French, and where the Mexican army beat down the superior numbers and equipped French troops. Way back when, the French came up with an idea of national and personal sovereignty. The French invaded Mexico in the early 1860s primarily to establish a Mexican monarchy under the rule of Archduke Maximilian of Austria. This invasion took place during the French intervention in Mexico (also known as the Second French intervention in Mexico) which lasted from 1861 to 1867. France sought to exert influence in Mexico and gain control over the country’s affairs, but the invasion ultimately faced resistance and opposition from Mexican forces led by figures like Benito Juárez, leading to the eventual withdrawal of French troops and the execution of Maximilian in 1867. This Mexican success lead to the national holiday, Cinco de Mayo.

Cholula

Cholula is an ancient city located in modern-day Mexico, known for its rich history and significant archaeological sites. Here’s a brief overview of its history:

• Preclassic Period: Cholula’s history dates back to around 2000 BCE, with evidence of early settlements in the area. During the Preclassic Period (2000 BCE – 200 CE), the city began to emerge as an important center for trade and religious activities.
• Classic Period: Cholula reached its peak during the Classic Period (200 CE – 900 CE) when it became a major urban center of the Mesoamerican civilization. The city’s population grew, and impressive pyramids and temples were constructed.
• Toltec Influence: Around the 10th century, Cholula came under the influence of the Toltec civilization, which brought new architectural styles and religious practices to the city.
• Aztec Period: In the 14th and 15th centuries, the Aztec Empire expanded its influence over Cholula. The city remained a prominent religious center, with its Great Pyramid, known as Tlachihualtepetl, becoming a focal point of worship.
• Spanish Conquest: In 1519, the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés arrived in Cholula during his expedition to Mexico. The indigenous inhabitants initially welcomed the Spaniards, but tensions escalated, leading to a violent encounter known as the “Massacre of Cholula.” The Spanish and their indigenous allies attacked and destroyed much of the city, including many of its religious structures.
• Colonial Period: After the Spanish conquest, Cholula was rebuilt as a colonial town, and the Spanish constructed churches and buildings atop the pre-existing indigenous structures. The city became an important center for evangelization and continued to be a cultural and religious hub.
• Modern Times: Today, Cholula is a vibrant city in the state of Puebla, Mexico. Its archaeological sites, including the Great Pyramid, continue to be important tourist attractions and provide valuable insights into the ancient history of the region. Cholula remains a place where ancient traditions and modern life intersect, celebrating its cultural heritage and historical significance.

The great pyramid of Cholula is largely unexplored and is the largest pyramid in the world by volume coming in at 4.45 million cubic meters, followed by the Great Pyramid of Giza coming in and just over half with 2.5 million cubic meters. It doesn’t look like much other than a hill with a church on top of it, but once you walk around and up-and-over it, the real size becomes apparent.