Christian Church Serratos
Chapala-Ajijic by Rosa Carvajal
CHAPALA – AJIJIC
Are you tired of visiting the beach, but still want to rejoice in the freshness of cool waters? I must suggest visiting Chapala and its culturally rich neighbor, Ajijic; come see what I’m talking about, visit http://www.patawalk.com
It is believed that Chapala and Ajijic (which are located in the state of Jalisco) were inhabited by an indigenous group from northern Mexico. The earliest Spanish occupation can be traced by to 1524, according to the account of a Franciscan Monk, Fray Juan de Padilla. But Chapala didn’t really become an established area until the 1530′s, when the Friars Martin de Jesus and Fray Juan de Amolon built a convent, a hospital, and a church. At this point in time and up until the early 1800s, Chapala was part of Spain. Wanting independence from Spain, Jose Encarnacion Rosas led 200 men against the forces of Jose Antonio Serrato. It is said that Rosas and his men not only beat Serrato but took away 300 of his rifles. Rosas’ quest for independence lasted until November 25, 1816, when the last battle was finally won and fighting ceased. Eight years later Chapala was finally declared an independent villa, or small town. In the late 1800′s, Chapala began growing as it attracted a wave of foreign immigrants. These foreign immigrants were the first to build European-style estate, some of which still stand today. The introduction of the railroad, in the 1900′s, brought about an increase of people visiting and other making this small town their year-round home. The increase in population led to an increase in business. Chapala’s incredible weather and beauty began attracting tourists, and as such hotels were built to cater to tourists. It is interesting to note that Chapala didn’t become a city until 1970, so it is a fairly young city.
As mentioned earlier, some of these estates are very much present today. However, most have been converted into hotels or restaurants, which is something you must see upon arriving. For instance, La Casa Braniff was one such estate, but today it is Restaurante Cazadores (Hunters Restaurant). Back then, Hotel Palmera was one of those tourist-oriented hotels. Today it is still a hotel, but you will now lodge at the Hotel Nido (Nest Hotel). What was then Hotel Niza is today the Municipal Palace. As you take a stroll down the streets of Chapala, your eyes will be filled with the beauty and historical richness of the numerous estates that remain almost intact today.
The weather isn’t the only fascination with Chapala. In fact, what attracts most is El Lago de Chapala (Lake Chapala). This is the biggest lake in Mexico! It is almost 50 miles long and more than 10 miles wide. Despite being such a huge lake, its waters are pretty shallow. So be assured that the water is perfectly safe. When you visit, you’ll be able to take a boat ride and visit one if not both small islands located there. The first island is Isla Mezcala; here can you still see the remains of an old jail, for the island was used as a fort during the battle for independence of Chapala. The second, but larger, is Isla de los Alacranes (Scorpions Island) and it’s important to mention that at one point this island was an important sacred place for the indigenous population. What’s more is that this lake, during specific seasons, is home to several migratory birds. Bird-watching is definitely a must-do activity here. Year-round, the lake is home to over a thousand native plants and animals.
On any day you can take your family to Parque de la Cristiana (Christian Park), which is where the locals go to enjoy a nice family picnic. In fact, the park has a pool and you can select a spot to have your picnic or cook-out. After spending the day as a family you must take some time to go shopping and why not visit Mercado de Artesanias (Crafts Market). Here you will find crafts made out of sea shells from the lake, candy, and jewelry among many other trinkets.
You can take a tour of the city on horseback, now that’s pretty cool! On horseback you can start on the lake and make your way to El Faro (The Lighthouse) and if you work-up an appetite then “park” your horse and enjoy a delicious meal in one of the restaurants located in Acapulquito. Acapulquito, meaning small Acapulco, is the most popular restaurant area in Chapala. Chapala boasts of having an excellent cuisine that includes caviar, charales, and carp birria. Mmmm!! One thing you must try and if possible take home a sample is the popular Chapala candy. These candies are made of natural ingredients and include milk, myrtle, Jamaica, lime, and even tamarind.
Within a few minutes of Chapala you can visit Tequila, which is where the famous Mexican alcoholic drink is made. Also, in the nearby vicinity you can find the small town of San Juan Cosala. What’s most interesting about this location is the natural hot springs spa, which you’ll really enjoy. Of course, Chapala has its own hotel with thermal wells, which is Hotel Villa Montecarlo. When you stay here, you’ll become immediately captivated by the peacocks that roam around the hotel freely, not to mention the spectacular view of the lake that it provides. Real de Chapala, Danza del Sol, and Mis Amores are three more hotels worth checking out.
Within a short distance of Chapala you can find the wonderful small village of Ajijic. This village gets its name from the Nahuatl language meaning “place where water spills.” Although it is a tiny village, Ajijic has managed to attract the attention of a great number of artists, mostly foreign. For this reason, the small town is very picturesque and vibrant. As you walk along its narrow, rock-paved streets you’ll be able to admire the antique yet colorful houses and shops. When you do stop in to a shop, don’t forget to purchase a few crafts for your loved ones at home. Along your walk you must make a pit stop at Parque de la Alegria (The Park of Happiness). As the name indicates, just by looking at this park you’ll immediately get an incredible sensation of happiness. And how could you not, when you’re surrounded by large trees, the lake, and people enjoying themselves and the incredible weather. Another natural beauty to look for is La Cascada El Tepalo (The Tepal Waterfall); however, it is during rainy season when you can truly appreciate this natural marvel. Lastly, Ajijic is definitely the place for those interested in sports because it has an amazing bicycle path that connects it to Chapala. So, when you take on this bike ride, not only will you be doing your body some good but also your mind and your spirit.
So don’t just let me tell you all about it, go see it yourself. Visit http://www.patawalk.com now!
About the Author
I’m an English instructor. I love my career because it allows me to work with students of all ages and walks of life. I have a B.A. in English and have recently obtained my M.A., also in English, from National University. During my free time I travel and write short articles for the Patawalk Virtual Tours website (www.patawalk.com). This site takes visitors into fully mapped virtual tours in 360 formats of amazing places such as Cancun, Mexico. It’s like being there!
This entry was posted on Saturday, December 3rd, 2011 at 5:43 pm and is filed under CHRISTIAN CHURCH PEOPLE, FRANCISCAN MONKS. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.