Located in the central part of the country, Morelos was formerly the site of major historical events during the independence and revolutionary periods. The state was previously dominated by the Chichimecs and inhabited by the Xochimilca and soon after the Tlahuica, who founded Cuauhnahuac, later converted by the Spaniards into Cuernavaca in 1521. Founded as “the city of eternal spring,” the capital of Morelos, Cuernavaca was the site where Spanish Conquistador Hernan Cortes decided to build his large realm. During the following years, the Jesuits began constructing majestic churches and monasteries that can still be admired in the area.

Cuernavaca is a charming city with a near-perfect climate year-round, adorned with charismatic architecture and beautiful landscapes. Only 55 miles south of Mexico City, soothing hot springs and crystalline, naturally formed pools have attracted high profile visitors from Mexico and all over the world for years.

One of the area’s most historic architectural beauties, located in old Cuernavaca, is the Palacio de Cortes, built shortly after the Conquest. It is the oldest civil building in the city, and in the Americas, now operating as a museum that showcases the country’s history, culture and tradition. Offering a glimpse of aristocratic life during colonial times is the Jardin Borda. Built in 1783, the gardens are laid out on a series of terraces, with paths, steps and fountains. You can find exhibits on daily life during the period, and original documents signed by some of Mexico’s most famous historical figures.

While in the area, a visit to Cuernavaca’s cathedral will prove to be a rich experience. Like the Palacio de Cortes, the cathedral was built on a grand scale and in a fortress-like style, as a defense against the natives and to impress and intimidate them. Nearby is the Museo Robert Brady, then-home of American artist and collector Robert Brady, who lived in the area for nearly 25 years. The museum includes several paintings by well-known Mexican artists, including Tamayo, Kahlo and Covarrubias.

Morelos also offers a few archeological sites. Teopanzolco, although small, has two pyramids, one inside the other. You can climb upon the outer base and see the older pyramid within, with double staircase leading up to the remains of a pair of temples. Another important ceremonial center is Xochicalco, located less than 10 miles southwest from Cuernavaca. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, the archeological zone is considered one of the most important in central Mexico. The white stone ruins represent the various cultures – Toltec, Olmec, Zapotec, Mixtec and Aztec.

Another popular destination in Morelos is the charming Mexican village of Tepoztlan, located just 45 miles outside Mexico City. Located near Cuernavaca, this town is known for its beautiful landscape and rich history. Because of its proximity to Mexico, Tepoztlan was often involved in wars and occupied by the French in the 19th century and by the Zapata during the Revolution. One of the town’s main attractions is its 16th-century convents, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

The majestic state of Morelos embodies the region’s rich history in its wonderful natural surroundings and charming colonial towns.