The delightful village of Huaquechula is a little gem tucked away in the Atlixco Valley in the state of Puebla. For me it represents a simpler time in Mexico particulararly since there are very few cars to be found driving in this village of 3,200. People seem content to walk to wherever they need to go. On many of the corners there are brightly painted outdoor shrines. No bill boards are to be found. It takes me back to images created from vintage straw appliqué -- quiet streets, a stunning view of Popocatépetl, goat herders walking by, adobe structures, acquias and a warm breeze against your face.

Prior to the arrival of the Spanish in 1520, Huaquechula was made up of the indigenous groups of people known as the Xicapancas and the Teochichimecas. The Nahuas moved into the region in 1200. When the Spanish arrived they built the Convent of San Francisco. It was built by the Franciscans. Construction began in 1531 and it was comepleted in 1580. In the 17th century Huaquechula became a part of the Spanish Crown. The Nahuatl word for Huaquechula is “eagle with rich plumage”.

Much to my surprise on my last visit, I discovered the museum, which is a part of the Ex-Convento San Francisco. Frescos painted from natural dyes such as cochineal, indigo and others can be found on both floors of the museum. The artistic quality of these murals was outstanding. I have never seen such beautiful work in all of my travels to Mexico.

So take a break and look at my postcards from Huaquechula.