Puebla (city)

Puebla, officially Heroica Puebla de Zaragoza, is the state capital and largest city of the state of Puebla in Mexico. Located in the Cuetlaxcoapan Valley, Puebla lies to the east of Mexico City and northwest of Veracruz.

Puebla is historically significant, founded in 1531 by the Spanish. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its colonial architecture, including numerous churches, monasteries, and public buildings constructed in the distinctive "Poblano Baroque" style. Talavera pottery, a type of majolica earthenware, is also closely associated with the city and region.

The city's economy is diverse, with significant sectors in manufacturing, automotive, textiles, tourism, and education. It is a major industrial center and a hub for higher education, hosting several universities and technical institutes.

Puebla's cuisine is another major draw for visitors. Signature dishes include mole poblano (a complex chili and chocolate-based sauce), chiles en nogada (poblano peppers stuffed with a fruit and meat mixture and topped with a walnut-based cream sauce and pomegranate seeds), and cemitas (sandwiches on a sesame seed roll).

The city observes many traditional Mexican holidays and festivals, particularly Cinco de Mayo, commemorating the Battle of Puebla in 1862, where the Mexican army defeated French forces. This victory is celebrated extensively throughout Puebla.