San Cristobal de las Casas

The self-proclaimed capital of highland Chiapas, San Cristobal de las Casas, or “Jovel” as it’s known to locals, is often chosen as a base for visitors exploring the nearby sights of Palenque, Bonampak and the Sumidero canyon.  A beautifully preserved colonial town, San Cristobal is quick to win admirers and exploring the maze of cobblestone streets unveils highlights like the San Cristobal Cathedral, Santo Domingo Church, the City Hall and the Casa Na Bolom museum.
Surrounded by indigenous villages like Chamula, Aguacatenango and Amatenango del Valle, San Cristóbal is also a melting pot of local culture and the city’s vibrant artisans’ markets and shops showcase an array of locally produced handicrafts. A popular pastime for visitors is touring the local villages, where it’s possible to watch the craftsmen at work, but the city’s Maya Medicine Museum provides an equally fascinating insight into indigenous traditions.

Practical Info

San Cristobal de las Casas is located in the Mexican state of Chiapas, 75 kilometers east of the state capital of Tuxtla.