Above: Fragments of clay sculptures from Veracruz, dating from between A.D. 200 and 900, at Museo Amparo in Puebla, Mexico

Puebla lacks the name recognition of San Miguel de Allende, at least for United States travelers. But fans of San Miguel’s colorful colonial architecture, fine restaurants and mild climate will find much to love about Puebla. Founded in 1531 to compete with the nearby indigenous religious center of Cholula, Puebla retains a well-preserved historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage site) that feels less touristy than that of San Miguel. Perhaps that’s because many of the visitors to Puebla come from Mexico City, about two hours by car to the northwest, rather than from the U.S. or Canada.

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Above: Fragments of clay sculptures from Veracruz, dating from between A.D. 200 and 900, at Museo Amparo in Puebla, Mexico

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