Cuernavaca, often called the “City of Eternal Spring,” has long been a retreat for those seeking warm weather and relaxing surroundings just 90 minutes from Mexico City. With a history that stretches back to the Aztec empire, the city is layered with centuries of cultural change. The historic center of Cuernavaca combines architecture from multiple eras, with narrow streets leading to quiet plazas and colonial churches. The 16th-century Cathedral of Cuernavaca is part of a group of fortified monasteries in central Mexico recognized by UNESCO. Its interior murals, once hidden under layers of paint, now reveal early missionary efforts through vivid scenes painted by indigenous artists. Nearby, the Borda Garden, originally designed as a summer estate for silver magnate José de la Borda, offers shaded paths, fountains, and a glimpse into how Mexico’s elite once lived.

Cuernavaca has long attracted artists, writers, and thinkers. Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky and psychologist Erich Fromm both spent time here. In the 20th century, it became a hub for international students learning Spanish, thanks to the many language schools that continue to operate today. This mix of global visitors and local traditions gives the city a distinct personality. It’s common to find weekend art exhibits, local theater productions, and music performances in public spaces, especially around the zócalo and the Jardín Juárez.