During 17th and 18th centuries, due to its
economic growth Queretaro became one of the main cities in Mexico.
Wealthy settlers built extravagant mansions on estates growing
crop like cotton or wheat. These were complete with majestic
patios and ornamental sculptures and included workers quarters.
The economic boom associated with increasing haciendas brought
even more land into the commercialized agricultural haciendas
that were now geared towards export, and began to encroach onto
village lands.
Most of there haciendas have been converted
into museums or hotels. These extravagant homes can be seen
in places like Casona de los 5 Patios, Casa de Don Bartolo,
Casa de la Zacatecana, the art museum and La casa de la Marquesa.
These haciendas are restored and preserved taking the visitor
back in time, emphasizing the differences of the past and present.
Staying at one of the rural haciendas in the surrounding mountains
will provide for an authentic Mexican experience.
Please note
that additional info (prices, activities, etc) are found to
the right of this pages. 
