El Central

Today was my first day to "el central"- the main part of the city of Cuernavaca. We had a bit of a late start due to my host mother throwing a huge family party last night and needing her rest this morning. I randomly woke up at 5:30 this morning, and still heard them outside listening to music, laughing, talking, and drinking cervezas.

My roommate, Diana, and I began our 30 minute walk to el central at around 11. We walked around the many markets that sold lots of jewlery, mexican food, balloons, las calaveras- colorful skulls that are very popular on the day of the dead-, and lots of other hand made crafts. After wondering around the markets for a while, we went to el Palacio de Cortez, a 16th century fort that was once the palace/ home of Hernan Cortez. It had a lot of historical artifacts and a collection of Diego Rivera's murals. I guess watching a movie on Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo every year for about 5 years finally paid off!

On our way to our next stop, we did a quick tour of la Catedral de la Asuncion, or the Cathedral of the Asencion. There wasn't much to see, as there was a mass going on while we were there. From what I know, it was built in the 16th century by a group of indigenous craftsman and is considered one of the oldest churches in the Americas. It might be worth going back on another day to check out the inside.

Out next stop at la Jardin Borda was by far my favorite. It is a beautiful garden that was developed in the 18th century and were once owned by Emperor Maximilion. There was an organic food festival while we were there- loved it! There were vendors with a ton of organic food and samples. Diana and I got mango on a stick with salt, lime juice, and chili pepper (except I was a wimp and skipped the pepper- I'm working on it). There was also a band there, "Casa Verde" (greenhouse), a reggae band. LOVED THEM!

We wondered around the markets a little bit longer, saw a parade, watched traditional dancers by the market, and finally made it back to our host mother's house. We were both extremely thirsty and hungry and were offered orange juice and Domino's pizza. Yummm

Well, It's my first day of school tomorrow. I have class from 8-2 and am taking a salsa dancing class after. Hope you enjoyed reading about my exciting Sunday. Hasta luego!