2 Best Sights in Tepoztlán, Around Mexico City

Rising above most of Tepoztlán's buildings is this buttressed former convent. It dates from the mid-16th century and has a facade adorned with icons dating from before the introduction of Christianity. Many of the walls, especially on the ground floor, have fragments of old paintings in earthen tones on the walls and decorating the arches. It is worth a visit just to see the building, which also houses temporary exhibits and a complete bookstore with a good selection of books, CDs, and videos.

Perched on a mountaintop, this tiny temple is dedicated to—depending on who you believe—either the Aztec deity Tepoztécatl, the god of the alcoholic drink pulque, or the Ahuizotl, the eighth Aztec emperor. The pyramid was part of a city that has not been uncovered, but was of such importance that pilgrims flocked here from as far away as Guatemala. It attracts hikers and sightseers not afraid of the somewhat arduous climb. The view over the valley is terrific.