The state of Puebla boasts a variety of tourist destinations renowned for their cultural and geographical richness. Among its mountains lies a particular destination that has gained prominence due to its architectural design and natural surroundings, which bear a striking resemblance to rural regions of Asia.
In the Magical Town of Xicotepec de Juárez, there is a place that has earned the nickname “Great Wall of China”: the Path of the Celestial Cross. It is a cobblestone path that winds its way up the mountain to a monumental 30-meter-high cross.
The comparison stems from its visual appearance; as a stone route built on the ridge of the hill, from a distance it resembles the famous Asian structure. However, the proportions are quite different:
The Path: It is a 1,460-meter-long staircase with 746 steps. Its construction was completed in just one year.
The Great Wall of China: It stretches for over 21,000 kilometers and took two centuries to complete. Despite the technical differences, this site has become a must-see in Puebla, thanks to its impressive glass viewpoint and the imposing structure that crowns the summit.
The adventure begins next to the monument to the Virgin of Guadalupe, a 23-meter-tall figure that stands out as one of the largest in the country. As you climb Cojolico Hill, the landscape takes center stage. If you go during the colder months, it’s very common for fog to envelop the path, giving you the sensation of literally walking on clouds.
During the ascent, you’ll find several points of interest to make the climb less strenuous:
Handicrafts and snacks: There are stalls with local products and restaurants where you can recharge with a traditional Mexican coffee or typical food from the Puebla mountains.
Must-stop: Halfway up the route is the Xóchitl restaurant, famous for its swings that offer a breathtaking view of the void below.
At the top of the steps, you’ll come across the enormous steel and glass cross. Directly opposite is the glass-floored viewpoint. Walking on it is an adrenaline-pumping experience, as looking directly into the abyss below isn’t for everyone, but the panoramic view of the town is totally worth it.
Adventurer’s Tip: If walking isn’t your thing, you can also take a mountain bike to add a touch of excitement to the descent.
Practical Information
Cost: Admission is free.
Hours: You can visit from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Source: ambito
