Malinalco: more than 2,000 years of history on a mountain
An essential guide to understanding the town: its timeline, its calendar and what is grown, fished and distilled here.
A place where the mountain was carved
Malinalco is a destination of great heritage value, recognized for its pre-Hispanic and viceregal legacy. Its main treasure is the Cuauhcalli archaeological zone, a monolithic temple unique in Mesoamerica, associated with the Mexica military tradition.
The historic center preserves colonial architecture, temples and streets that tell centuries of living history. This legacy, together with its traditions and natural surroundings, makes Malinalco a cultural landmark of the State of Mexico.
Malinalco through the years
Cultural continuity, tangible heritage and immersive experience: from the first settlements to today's Pueblo Mágico.
Origins and first settlements
- c. 2000 a.C.–200 d.C. First farming villages in the valley.
- 200–900 d.C. Teotihuacan influence and regional trade.
- c. 600 d.C. Presence of Matlatzinca groups.
Mexica splendor
- 12th century Culhua groups arrive; settlements are consolidated.
- 1476 Mexica conquest: Malinalco joins the Empire.
- 1486–1500 The monolithic sanctuary for eagle and jaguar warriors is built.
Conquest and viceroyalty
- 1521–1525 Spanish conquest.
- 1525–1533 Evangelization: Franciscans, Dominicans and Augustinians.
- 1540 Founding of the Convent of the Divino Salvador.
- 16th–18th centuries Neighborhood chapels, hydraulic system and haciendas.
Independence and the 19th century
- 1813 José María Morelos passes through and signs documents for the independence cause.
Revolution and the 20th century
- 1911–1913 Zapatista territory under the command of Genovevo de la O.
- 1933–1935 Formal exploration of the archaeological site.
Contemporary Malinalco
- The 2000s Consolidation as a tourist destination.
- 2010 Designation as a Pueblo Mágico.
Dates and festivities that mark the year
Holy Week
Processions and religious celebrations downtown. Dates change every year.
Divino Salvador
Feast of the patron of the former Augustinian convent, with mass, music and fair.
Day of the Dead
Offerings, altars and traditions that honor those who are no longer with us.
Posadas and Christmas
Neighborhood tradition with piñatas, carols and ponche.
Cultural Festival
Music, dance and art in the town's squares and venues.
Pilgrimages to Chalma
Pilgrims from all over the country pass through Malinalco. Dates to be confirmed.
What the land, the river and the maguey give
The market
Fruits and vegetables from the region, straight from those who grow them. The best place to taste what each season offers.
See gastronomy →The trout
Cold mountain water and a culinary tradition: trout arrives fresh at the table in the town's restaurants.
Where to eat →Now live what you just read
Explore culture, adventure, gastronomy and rest.