 I have been feeling nostalgic of late. I don’t know if this is because the years are passing more and more quickly or because I am appreciating more and more the life we live. Whatever the reason, I thought it would be fun to create a blog posting sharing the changes through photographs that we have seen and experienced in Puerto Vallarta since our arrival here twenty three years ago. It was Puerto Vallarta's 101st anniversary yesterday so sharing this post today is my belated best wishes to our hometown even if I'm a day late.  When my husband and I started thinking about moving to Puerto Vallarta to live full time we had no idea what a change it would be from our life in California. My husband and I are both native-born Southern Californians and we only knew Mexico from driving excursions through this amazing country. I loved it all. The beauty of the country, the generosity and friendliness of the people, the culture and history, and of course, the food!  When we finally decided to make the move to live full time in Mexico we had no realistic idea of what to expect. But we soon found out. It was challenging. It was exciting. It was an adventure. It was beyond anything I had imagined. And looking back with hindsight it provided me the necessary “ingredients” to create my blog, MEXICO AND BEYOND: LAURA'S PHOTO JOURNEY, at the suggestion of my husband. I have created this blog posting as a retrospect of Puerto Vallarta through vintage photographs which are mostly in black and white which I found on the web and from photographs we have taken over the years. Here is my visual recollection of Puerto Vallarta in the past and Puerto Vallarta in the present and I hope you enjoy. LOS MUERTOS BEACH  Los Muertos Beach (Beach of the Dead) sometime in the 1950's How did Los Muertos Beach get its name? There are a number of versions, but I think this sounds the most reasonable: The beach was a sacred cemetery of the local Indians. This was first noticed when residents started building by the beach and started digging up bones in ceramic pots, a local Indian tribal custom when they buried their dead. The most recent evidence provided by Archaeologist Dr. Joseph Bode Mountjoy Harris of the University of North Carolina also supports this theory.  Los Muertos Beach in Puerto Vallarta as seen today. Los Muertos Beach is the most popular beach in Puerto Vallarta. Up until the 1960s it was the favorite place for Vallarta families and their Sunday picnics. They would gather in the shade of palm frond lean-tos and eat the tacos they had brought from home in straw baskets, or the tacos that they bought on the beach, adorned with a little bit of shredded cabbage and seasoned liberally with red hot sauce.  Visitors can enjoy the local culture at Los Muertos Beach and also hang out here as do the expats. It's a lively place, full of tradition, and a great place to have a refreshment by the edge of the sea and watch the famous sunsets.  THE MALECON (BOARDWALK)  A vintage photo of the Malecon "boardwalk" in Puerto Vallarta before it was redesigned in 2011 and became a pedestrian only promenade. Malecon is a word used in Spanish-speaking countries, and especially in nations of Latin America, for a stone-built embankment or esplanade along a waterfront where people can walk and enjoy the scenery.  While many areas in Puerto Vallarta can be easily enjoyed on foot walking the Malecon stands out as a must-do activity in Puerto Vallarta. Day or night, alone or in a group, at a leisurely pace or even jogging, the Malecon is a social gathering place for visitors and locals alike.   A spectacular collection of bronze sculptures, many of which were commissioned to local artists, adorn the length of Puerto Vallarta's remodeled Malecon.  A handful of local artists have been granted special permits to build sand and stone sculptures on the beach adjacent to the Malecon. And while it is not expected, a small tip is certainly appreciated by the artists, particularly when you take photos of their creations.  In addition, other artists transform themselves into motionless human sculptures along the Puerto Vallarta Malecon to every one's delight. I cannot image the effort involved in "getting dressed" for the day and how these "living statues" deal with the hot tropical Puerto Vallarta sun while dressed.  A "Pancho Villa" living statue on the Puerto Vallarta Malecon. Bravo senor!  The following link will magically take you to my previous blog posting for: THE SCULPTURES OF THE MALECON THE ZOCALO AND THE LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH  The Lady of Guadalupe Church on the zocalo (main plaza) of Puerto Vallarta before she received her crown. Check out the attire of the locals way back then with ladies in dresses and men in full-length pants. Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, officially known as La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe, has been called "one of the most endearing" of Puerto Vallarta's landmarks and I certainly agree.  The church tower at the Puerto Vallarta zocalo is topped with a wrought-iron crown hoisted by angels designed to resemble one worn by Empress Carlota of Mexico.  The gazebo on the Zocalo (main plaza) of Puerto Vallarta has always been a place to meet and celebrate.  The remodeled and updated gazebo in Puerto Vallarta where music and dancing on the zocalo have always gone hand in hand. If you look closely at this photo you can see the Church of Guadalupe looking down on the main plaza of Puerto Vallarta and its gazebo. THE PUERTO VALLARTA PIER  The first Los Muertos Pier was built in the early 1960s and was constructed as a launch point for the cast and crew from the film "Night of the Iguana" which was directed by John Huston and featured Richard Burton, Ava Gardner, and Deborah Kerr with Elizabeth Taylor in attendance to keep Sr. Burton "company." The ramshackle wooden pier was built to make transportation of the cinematography equipment easier. After almost 30 years a concrete pier was built with the help of local residents and government funding. This updated structure served its purpose, but was not a tourist attraction and became an eye sore.  Lo and behold the magnificent new Los Muertos Pier which was designed by architect Jose de Jesus Torres Vega, winner of the Biannual Architecture Prize. It sits in place of the old pier on Los Muertos Beach and was built as a part of the renewal project of the whole downtown area of Puerto Vallarta including the new Malecon boardwalk which was completed in 2011.  The pier resembles a large sail with sweeping line extensions. There is over 2,000 square feet of space that extends 320 feet into the ocean. It includes pedestrian walkways, seating, a waterfront promenade, colorful lighting, and a landing dock that can berth up to six medium size boats including water taxis, fishing charters, and private vessels. The new Los Muertos Pier is functional, modern, a great tourist attraction, and a spot for locals and visitors to enjoy. The following are some other miscellaneous vintage photos of Puerto Vallarta I found while researching this blog posting which I wanted to share because I think they are wonderful.  Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor of Hollywood fame had a home in Puerto Vallarta and were instrumental in Puerto Vallarta becoming a booming seaside vacation destination from the sleepy fishing village it had been.  During the course of filming, and for many years to follow, Burton had a beautiful casita in the village. It could be found in the “Gringo Gulch” neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta and afforded spectacular views of the downtown area and Banderas Bay itself. It may come as no surprise, however, that Burton's Casa Kimberly (which is now an upscale hotel option when visiting Puerto Vallarta) was just across the street from Elizabeth's Puerto Vallarta house and was the perfect solution for their desire to be close.  It was Burton who commissioned the now famous "Lovers Arch" which connects the two homes and can still be seen today so that he and Elizabeth could maintain their own homes while visiting each other as much as they wished to.  The above vintage photos are of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor which were taken in Puerto Vallarta.  This vintage photo of crossing the Rio Cuale (River Cuale) was no easy feat before the modern pedestrian bridge or the two swing bridges were built.  The new modern pedestrian bridge allows families and friends to mix and mingle and enjoy the river which empties into the sea. It also connects "Old Town" to the Zocalo (the main plaza) and is a great form of exercise!  Th two swing bridges that cross the Rio Cuale to the Isla Cuale have recently been reinforced, but they can be a challenge and somewhat awkward if you have to hang onto the safety fencing for balance as I do!  A stationary contemporary and colorful pedestrian bridge was built in 2012 which connects the Isla Cuale to the upper "Gringo Gulch" neighborhood which was the hillside residential area named after the foreigners who lived there including Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor of Hollywood fame. This wonderful structure is situated just a few steps from the Vallarta Cultural Center and offers spectacular views of the mountains, the river, and a peak of the Pacific Ocean and is definitely my kind of bridge!  A vintage photo of ships delivering people and/or goods to Puerto Vallarta in front of Los Muertos Beach in 1957. Please note the palapa thatched roof and the libations ready to quench a seaman's thirst.  Quite a change from the old ships are the huge cruise ships which stop for the day in Puerto Vallarta on the other side of the bay which we can see and photograph from our south of Puerto Vallarta location. Some of these ships can appear as large or larger than the condominium towers you see in this photo. Yikes!  The Malecon (Boardwalk) in Puerto Vallarta was and still is the main focal point of Puerto Vallarta. Check out the vehicles!  The gazebo in the zocalo of Puerto Vallarta is still a happening place.  Donkey/burro delivery and transport in Puerto Vallarta as seen in bygone years can still occasionally be seen today.  Some local donkeys (burros in Spanish) as seen today in the Emiliano Zapato barrio in Puerto Vallarta.  Photo of the Guadalupe Sanchez Torres family in Puerto Vallarta A little Puerto Vallarta history to go with the above photo image: In 1851 Don Guadalupe Sanchez Torres, originally from Cihuatlan, Jalisco, began to make regular deliveries of salt from San Blas or the Marias Islands in his small boat since the local mines required large quantities for refining the silver. Don Guadalupe and his men built a small lean-to from tree trunks and palm leaves so that they would have a place to rest out of the sun while the salt was being loaded onto donkeys for transport to the mines. Toward the end of 1851 Don Guadalupe decided to bring his family to Puerto Vallarta (formerly known as Las Penas de Santa Maria de Guadalupe). With the arrival of new families the village grew little by little and its economy began to change. While some families brought in salt, others began to devote themselves to agriculture or cattle raising. Quite the humble beginning for what we now call Puerto Vallarta.  Horses and old "horseless" vehicles learning to get along in Puerto Vallarta. The following four photographs were on display yesterday in Puerto Vallarta in honor of Puerto Vallarta's 101st anniversary. Of course I had to take photos of the old photos to share with my blog amigos. I like to think I am not the only one who enjoys old photographic memories.    Communal transportation in Puerto Vallarta back before old American school buses were imported for local needs.  I sincerely hope you have enjoyed my retrospect of Puerto Vallarta. I certainly have enjoyed putting it together and learning more about the history of this beautiful town. Until next time, I will leave you with a "vintage" photo of myself along with my current "blogging photo" taken on the Rio Cuale bridge. Gracias for joining me and I hope to see you again soon. Laura   |
Sunday, February 12, 2023
PUERTO VALLARTA RETROSPECTIVE
Thursday, January 19, 2023
THE COLONIAL CITIES OF MEXICO: AN INTRODUCTION
Mexico's rich history and cultural heritage have long captivated visitors from around the world. From the ancient ruins of the Maya and Aztec civilizations to the Spanish colonial cities that dot the country, Mexico offers a wealth of historical and cultural experiences. Among the most significant of these are Mexico's colonial cities which offer a unique glimpse into the country's past and present.
From the bustling metropolis of Mexico City to charming towns like San Miguel de Allende these colonial cities are not only important historical sites, but also vibrant centers of culture and commerce. In this blog post we will explore the history, significance, and cultural richness of Mexico's colonial cities.
Key colonial cities in Mexico including Mexico City, The capital of "New Spain" and one of the largest cities in the world during the colonial period. Mexico City also known as Ciudad de Mexico or Mexico D.F. (District Federal) is a true testament to the country's rich colonial heritage.
As the capital of "New Spain" it was one of the most important cities in the Spanish Empire during the colonial period. The city was founded by the Aztecs in 1325 and was later taken over by the Spanish conquistadors in 1521. During the colonial period, Mexico City was one of the largest cities in the world with a population that exceeded that of contemporary European cities like London and Paris.
As the capital of New Spain it was one of the most important cities in the Spanish Empire during the colonial period. The city was founded by the Aztecs in 1325 and was later taken over by the Spanish conquistadors in 1521. During the colonial period, Mexico City was one of the largest cities in the world with a population which exceeded that of contemporary European cities like London and Paris.
The Spanish brought their own culture, religion, and architecture to the city creating a unique blend of indigenous and European influences. This can be seen in the city's landmarks such as the Zocalo, the main square of the city and one of the largest public plazas in the world, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the Americas, and the Templo Mayor, the main temple of the Aztecs which was discovered during the Spanish conquest.
Today Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 21 million people. It continues to be an important political and economic center and it is also a popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage and colonial-era landmarks.
Visitors can stroll through the historic center of the city and take in the sights and sounds of Mexico City's past from the grandeur of the Palacio Nacional, the official residence of the President, to the charming streets of the Coyoacan neighborhood which was once a separate village and now a bohemian area known for its colonial-era architecture, arts, craft shops, and cafes.
The Zocalo also known as the Plaza de la Constitucion is the main square of Mexico City and one of the largest public plazas in the world. It is surrounded by historic buildings such as the Palacio Nacional, the Catedral Metropolitana, and the Templo Mayor Museum.
The Catedral Metropolitana, also known as the Catedral Metropolitana de la Asuncion de la Santisima Virgen Maria a los cielos, is located in the historic center of Mexico City. It is the largest cathedral in the Americas and it took nearly 250 years to build. The Cathedral is a mix of architectural styles, but mainly in the Baroque style.
The Palacio Nacional is the official residence of the President of Mexico. The palace was built on the site of the former Aztec palace of Moctezuma II and it has been the seat of government since the colonial period. The palace is also home to several important murals by the famous Mexican artist Diego Rivera.
Templo Mayor Museum: This is an archaeological site and museum that showcases the remains of the main temple of the Aztecs and the pre-Columbian civilization of the Mexicas. The main temple was located in the center of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, which was located on the site of present-day Mexico City. The temple was discovered during the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire in 1521.
And my personal favorite site in Mexico City is the Museum of Anthropology.
Hanging out at the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City made me very happy.
Coyoacan: is a neighborhood of Mexico City and it was an independent village before the Spanish conquest. It has been a bohemian and artistic area and it offers charming streets with colonial-era architecture as well as museums, galleries, and markets that showcase the cultural heritage of the area. The Frida Kahlo Museum is also located there, which offers a good glimpse of the colorful and bohemian life of the famous artist Frida Khalo.
OAXACA
Oaxaca, City is a colonial city located in the southern state of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture, beautiful plazas, churches, and vibrant indigenous markets.The city of Oaxaca is best known for its many cultural and folkloric celebrations and festivals such as the Guelaguetza, a cultural and dance festival that takes place annually in July.
This festival is a celebration of the state's indigenous heritage and it brings together people from different towns and regions to showcase their traditional dances, costumes, and music. Without a doubt some of most favorite memories of living in Oaxaca are of the Quelaguetza festival with images as follows.
During the colonial period Oaxaca was a center of trade and commerce as well as an important religious and cultural center. The Spanish built grand churches and monasteries many of which are still standing today such as the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, a beautiful baroque church with an ornate façade and intricate carvings inside as seen below.
Oaxaca is also home to a large indigenous population and this is reflected in the city's vibrant markets. Visitors can find traditional crafts, textiles, and pottery made by local artisans as well as sample Oaxaca's famous cuisine including dishes like mole negro and tlayudas.
Oaxaca City is known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture and indigenous markets. Oaxaca is a colonial city located in the southern state of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture, beautiful plazas, churches, and vibrant indigenous markets. But is probably best known for its fabulous annual Guelaquetza celebration with a very small representation of this wonderful tradition as seen above and below.
The city of Oaxaca is also known for its many cultural and folkloric celebrations and festivals, such as the Guelaguetza, a cultural and dance festival that takes place annually in July. This festival is a celebration of the state's indigenous heritage and it brings together people from different towns and regions to showcase their traditional dances, costumes, and music. Without a doubt some of most favorite memories of living in Oaxaca are of the Quelaguestza festival.
Local ladies in Oaxaca celebrating their heritage and customs.
Overall, Oaxaca is a colonial city that offers visitors a chance to experience Mexico's rich history, culture, and indigenous heritage all while enjoying its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant markets. It is definitely one of our favorite cities in Mexico.
PUEBLA
Puebla: Is colonial city known for its beautiful Baroque churches and tile-roofed houses.
Also known as Puebla de Zaragoza it is a colonial city located in the state of Puebla, Mexico.
The Cathedral of Puebla
The Virgin of Puebla
Puebla is also famous for its colorful tile-roofed houses known as Talavera. These houses are adorned with glazed terracotta tiles which come in a variety of bright colors and patterns. The technique for producing these tiles called Talavera was brought to Puebla by the Spanish during the colonial period and and it is still being produced today making it a major industry in the city. Visitors can see the process of making the Talavera tiles in the Talavera shops or by taking a tour of a Talavera factorory.
Beautiful talavera pottery as seen in Puebla.
I say cheers to Puebla and I see I was celebrating my birthday there only one day late.
Puebla is also known for its rich culinary tradition, specially for its mole poblano which is a traditional dish made with a variety of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate. it is usually served over chicken, pork, or beef. Visitors can try the famous mole poblano along with other traditional dishes in the city's many markets, street stalls, and restaurants.
Overall, Puebla offers a unique blend of history, culture, architecture, and food making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Mexico's colonial heritage, food and its famous Talavera.
SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE
San Miguel de Allende is also known for its charming cobblestone streets and its colorful colonial-era houses many of which have been beautifully restored and repurposed as hotels, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can stroll through the city's winding streets taking in the sights and sounds of the colonial era and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a traditional Mexican fiesta taking place in one of the city's plazas.
Dance of the Concheros in San Miguel de Allende
The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel is the most iconic building of the city, a beautiful and intricately detailed neo-gothic structure that stands at the heart of the city. Visitors can also explore other buildings like the Templo de la Merced, an 18th-century church with an ornate baroque façade, and the Templo de San Francisco, a 17th-century church with a beautifully restored interior.
Celebrating Easter Sunday in San Miguel de Allende
Making friends in San Miguel de Allende.
In summary, San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial city with a rich cultural heritage and history offering visitors the chance to experience Mexico's colonial past while also enjoying its colorful architecture, cobblestone streets, vibrant arts, cultural scene, and traditional festivals.
And last, but not least, it was where we were living when my husband suggested I start a blog and here I am still blogging away, but from Puerto Vallarta. I say cheers to that!
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