Taxco is a town of 140,000 (name means "ballgame"), which is 1754 meters above sea level, located 4 hours from Acapulco, northeast. Mexico City is approximately 2 hours from Taxco.
Taxco was conquered in 1552 by the Spaniards who uncovered its mineral wealth. Much of its development occurred in the 19th century as a result of a Frenchman by the name of Jose de la Borda, who became a rich man after he discovered a silver mine. There are still approximately 14 to 16 working silver mines. Taxco is filled with numerous silver shops and the silver produced is 925 pure.
There are numerous churches in Taxco; however, the most spectacular is the Parish of Santa Prisca, which was built by Jose
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Taxco was conquered in 1552 by the Spaniards who uncovered its mineral wealth. Much of its development occurred in the 19th century as a result of a Frenchman by the name of Jose de la Borda, who became a rich man after he discovered a silver mine. There are still approximately 14 to 16 working silver mines. Taxco is filled with numerous silver shops and the silver produced is 925 pure.
There are numerous churches in Taxco; however, the most spectacular is the Parish of Santa Prisca, which was built by Jose de la Borda who believed that what God gave to you, you should give to God. Building of the church commenced in 1751 and took 10 years to complete. The cost depleted all of Mr. Borda's riches (for a period of time). It is absolutely breathtaking and holds countless sculptures and original paintings. No flash cameras are allowed inside. Be sure to purchase the booklet on the church as it is very informative and is written in Spanish and English.
The streets are cobblestone and, because of their steepness, are an excellent workout. Building facades are white and roofs are red tile, very similar to what you would see in Spain or Portugal. The narrow streets are perfect for the ever-popular Volkswagen Beetle taxis, which are abundant. Other churches include the Paris of San Miguel (18th century) and the Parish of Santa Maria de Guadelupe (2nd half of 16th century. Temples include Santa Veracruz, the Santisima Trinidad, San Nicolas Tolentino and Cjeda (16th century and beginning of 17th).
We visited Taxco through a tour out of the Mayan Palace. We took two vans, which did not have headrests and did not allow for everyone to sit with their partner. I would suggest that you try to take a Tour with a large tour bus. You travel through the Sierra Madres to get there and the views are absolutely breathtaking. Our tour did not allow you to maneuver the town on your own, which we would have preferred.
Roberto, our taxi driver from outside the Mayan Palace (yellow and white cabs), said that cabs will take you there, as well. If you ended up with a knowledgeable driver, that might be the ticket.
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