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All Mexico San Lucas el Grande Ex-Hacienda de Chautla
AO Edited

Ex-Hacienda de Chautla

A historic Puebla estate featuring a striking castle.

San Lucas el Grande, Mexico

Added By
Carlene Fowlkes
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Castillo de Gillow.   carlenefowlkes / Atlas Obscura User
Castillo de Gillow.   carlenefowlkes / Atlas Obscura User
Walkway to and from the castle.   carlenefowlkes / Atlas Obscura User
Grounds of the hacienda.   carlenefowlkes / Atlas Obscura User
Hacienda lake with volcano Iztaccíhuatl in the background.   carlenefowlkes / Atlas Obscura User
Chautla sign on the grounds.   carlenefowlkes / Atlas Obscura User
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About

Dating back to the 18th century, Ex-Hacienda de Chautla was once a thriving sugar plantation and textile factory. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

The hacienda’s centerpiece is the magnificent Castillo de Gillow, a fairytale-like castle perched atop a hill. Built in the early 20th century by the Gillow family, the castle features stunning French-inspired architecture, with intricate stonework and a grand central tower offering panoramic views. Visitors can explore the castle’s opulent interiors, which have been meticulously preserved, and marvel at its furnishings and artwork.

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History & Culture Architecture Castles

Know Before You Go

Ex-Hacienda of Chautla is located in the municipality of San Salvador el Verde, in Puebla, about 80 km (50 miles) from Puebla and 120 km (75 miles) from Mexico City. You can get there by car, by bus, or by tour. If you go by car, you can take the highway Mexico-Puebla and exit at San Martin Texmelucan. Then, you can follow the signs to Chautla. If you go by bus, take a bus from Puebla or Mexico City to San Martin Texmelucan. Then, take a taxi or a local bus to Chautla. If you are new or visiting Mexico, it’s best to book a tour from Puebla or Mexico City that includes transportation, entrance fees, and a guide.

Upon arrival at the hacienda, head to the office to see available activities. A Spanish-language tour of the springs runs hourly from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can also explore the grounds on your own and enjoy things like hiking, fishing, horseback riding, zip-lining, and biking.

Don’t miss the museum, chapel, mill, and textile factory. For an extended stay, cabins and a camping area are available.

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carlenefowlkes

Published

February 25, 2025

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Ex-Hacienda de Chautla
Carr Federal México-Puebla Km. 4,5
San Lucas el Grande, 74135
Mexico
19.31474, -98.4726
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