With an average of between 20,000 and 30,000 tourists monthly, the Magical Town of Bernal is one of the most special key points of Querétaro. Around its Peña, whose origins date back to almost 9 million years ago, indigenous people and settlers have built all kinds of myths and legends that are today a strong attraction for visitors.
Peña de Bernal: a natural icon of Mexico
Located in the state of Querétaro and about 230 km from Mexico City, the imposing Peña de Bernal emerges in the natural landscape of the Pueblo Mágico of Bernal as the third largest monolith in the world. Originally formed by the lava of a now inactive volcano, this beautiful geological formation stands at an altitude of 288 m – and is located 2,515 m above sea level – to which thousands of visitors come on March 21 to celebrate the spring equinox.
Formed almost 9 million years ago, the Peña de Bernal has given rise to all kinds of stories, myths and legends, which is why Bernal was classified as a Magical Town in 2005. The peña is also one of the 13 Wonders of Mexico recognized by the Ministry of Tourism, as well as registered by UNESCO on the list of Inmanterial Heritage of Humanity. With the good connection offered through the Mexico-Querétaro bus, an unmissable visit for anyone.
A story marked by the cross and water
The history of Peña de Bernal, despite the founding of its town by the Spanish in the 19th century. XVII, dates back to pre-Hispanic times. The area was a place of worship for the indigenous people, where Otomíes, Toltecs and Chichimecas celebrated rituals that are still reproduced today. However, as a result of the cultural mix with Christianity, the adoration of the Holy Cross is the festival that survives, where pilgrims ascend to its summit carrying crosses as an offering.
After the beginning of the celebration on May 1, through dances, songs and traditional meals, the festival concludes with the return of an 85 kg wooden cross by the so-called “escaloneros”, located all year round in the summit of Peña de Bernal. Rite that venerates an original cross, made of stone, of which only its vestiges are preserved. However, when spring arrives, indigenous mysticism comes to life, associated with the strength and energies of the rock.
Despite the roots of Christianity, many of its pilgrims honor their ancestors and make the place an ecosystem of rituals focused on water and rain, where many exhibit their chimales following the Otomi-Chichimeca tradition. Although, whatever the spiritual reason that attracts visitors, this guardian of a sacred territory enjoys a strong magnet for tourists. Since the activities in the area are ideal for both locals and foreigners.
What to do in Bernal and its surroundings?
According to municipal data for the region, Bernal receives between 20,000 and 30,000 visitors each month, tourism that forms its main economic support. Although the height of the rock above the ground may seem modest to some, the climb is manageable and very beautiful, with an ascent of about 45 minutes to the highest point of Peña de Bernal. It is necessary for the last stretch to the top to have professional equipment and experience in hiking.
Climbing aside, there are many other activities to do in places with nature in Querétaro. From wine and gastronomic routes to discover the wine and food of the region – the vineyards of Finca Sala Vivé or the Freixenet Winery, as well as its cheeses and sweets, recommending the Casa Museo del Dulce in Bernal – to simply walking its streets. . Thus traveling through the colonial architecture and local crafts that coexist in the Magic Town.
A trip to the mystical and cultural column of Querétaro
Beyond the main tourist activities in the area, soaking up the living culture of Peña de Bernal is actually the best way to get to know the region and fully immerse yourself in its deepest essence. For example, through its artistic manifestations, where the cultural well of Querétaro is already a national reference for its activity. In Bernal, giving rise to theatrical performances and legends at street level that enliven its rich identity.
One of the examples are the so-called Tours or Nights of Legends, in which the lives of historical figures from distant and disparate times are narrated, as well as the classics of La Llorona, The Midnight Mass or Charro Negro, practically every weekend. week. Or native myths like Bernal’s Treasure. History that alludes to a cave located at the top of the Peña whose interior guards a unique treasure: knowing the origin and destiny of the human being.
More than a fortuitous volcanic formation and a town founded by Spanish colonialism, the Pueblo Mágico of Bernal and its Peña represent that immortal portal to Mexican identity. Where history and legend, ritual and art manage to attract thousands of tourists every month with an immortal and powerful force. An easily accessible place, as can be seen through the ETN Site, where it is mandatory to go and live at least once in your life.
Source: contrareplica
