Introduction

Surrounded by Puebla on three sides, little-known Tlaxcala literally lives in the shadow of its more famous neighbor. Yet Mexico’s smallest state offers visitors numerous attractions, certainly more than its size would warrant. It has colonial masterpieces, stunning pre-Hispanic murals, colorful religious festivals, and even an annual Pamplona-style running of the bulls, all in an area slightly larger than Rhode Island, in other words, all within minutes of each other. Plus it is located just an hour and a half (120 km/75 mi) from Mexico City via an excellent toll road.