About this tour
The history of Cholula took a definitive turn following the fall of Tenochtitlan and the subsequent arrival of religious orders. Given the valley’s enormous population density and the deep-rooted ritual ties to Tlachihualtepetl (the Great Pyramid), the Spanish Crown divided the area into two districts with autonomous governments: San Pedro Cholula was organized as the “Republic of the Indians” in 1537, while the surrounding lands to the south and east came to form San Andrés Cholula, which was formally established in 1557 as an agricultural area with a town council controlled by Spanish settlers and mestizo families.On this tour, we will explore both areas and their histories, as well as their most iconic sites, which echo the two distinct paths of development that took place in this region, giving them a unique character that still resonates today.
About the guide
Hist. Oscar Arturo Silva Juárez
Cultural educator and historian
Within the field of historical research, I am particularly interested in the New Spain period, specifically the processes of religiosity and the role played by the mendicant orders in the construction of New Spain. I enjoy exploring topics such as monastic life, writings produced within the cloisters, and Christian iconography, understanding them not only as expressions of the spirituality of their time but also as elements that helped define the identity and cultural landscape of viceregal society.
On the other hand, I have a deep interest in the study of 20th-century popular culture, particularly the history of entertainment venues and forms of social interaction in contemporary Mexico. I am interested in tracing social changes through both urban and rural expressions, observing iconic places such as theaters, bars, dance halls, stadiums, and arenas—venues that preserve much of the collective memory and everyday experiences of different generations.
2014–2016
She was part of the team at the Museo de El Carmen (INAH) as a Research Assistant, helping to catalog works from New Spain, curate exhibitions, and develop historical content for various museum projects. During this period, she also worked with the Casa del Risco Museum to organize the cultural event “Ofrendas de San Ángel.”
2016–2023
He served as Head of Programming and Logistics for INAH’s Cultural Tours, where he was responsible for planning the annual schedule of tours, training specialists, and developing new historical outreach routes. He has established a career as a cultural educator and expert guide, leading tours focused on the history of New Spain, art, and popular culture. He has contributed to Canal 11, Canal 22, ADN 40, Radio UNAM, and MVS Radio.
2024 – Present
He currently serves as head of the Technical Department at the Ex Convento de Culhuacán Community Center (INAH), where he coordinates the facility’s operational and technical activities, as well as various projects focused on the conservation, research, and promotion of historical and cultural heritage.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1
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Exit from the Pepsi Center
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Breakfast at the Río Frío Parador
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Transfer to San Andrés Cholula
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Arrival in San Andrés Cholula and a visit to the church
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Visit to the Chapel of Los Remedios, the Former Convent of San Gabriel, and the Royal Chapel of the Naturales
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Meals and Free Time
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Transportation to Mexico City
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Arrival at the Pepsi Center and end of the tour
What's included
- Ground Transportation
- Exhibitor
- Assist Card
- Guided Tour
What's not included
- Meals
- Tips
- Tickets
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