This hill on the edge of the city center is where Emperor Maximilian I was executed by firing squad in 1867, ending the Second Mexican Empire, and a chapel and monument now mark the spot. A small museum on the grounds covers the events of the French Intervention and the fall of the empire. The hilltop also gives a wide view over Santiago de Querétaro, since the site sits above the surrounding streets.
Cerro de las Campanas is a hilltop park on the western edge of Santiago de Querétaro, historically significant as the site where Emperor Maximilian I was executed by firing squad in 1867. Visitors climb the paved paths to the summit to see the Capilla Expiatoria (a memorial chapel built where the execution occurred), a large statue of Benito Juárez, and the small Museo del Cerro de las Campanas, which displays artifacts and photographs from the fall of the Second Mexican Empire. A visit runs 1-1.5 hours, including the walk up, time at the chapel and monument, and a look through the museum's compact exhibits. The hilltop also offers open views across the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro campus and the city beyond, best appreciated in the cooler morning hours before the sun is directly overhead on the largely shadeless summit. The park sees moderate foot traffic from students and joggers on weekdays, while weekends can bring more visiting families and school groups touring the museum.
| Admission | Adult Park approx MXN 5-7 (approx $0.30-0.40); museum small separate fee · Child Reduced rate for children |
|---|---|
| Hours | Park daily; Museo del Cerro de las Campanas Tue-Sun (hours vary seasonally) |
| Typical visit | 1-1.5 hours |
| Best time | Morning, before the midday sun on the open hilltop |
| Getting there | West of the historic center, near the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro campus; taxi or rideshare recommended |
| Address | Cerro de las Campanas, Centro Universitario, 76017 Santiago de Querétaro, Qro., Mexico |
Location
Cerro de las Campanas, Centro Universitario, 76017 Santiago de Querétaro, Qro., Mexico
20.5977, -100.4106 View on map
Highlights
- Capilla Expiatoria marking the execution site of Emperor Maximilian I
- Monumental statue of Benito Juárez atop the hill
- Small on-site museum covering the fall of the Second Mexican Empire
- Open hilltop views over the university campus and city
Tips for visiting
- Climb in the morning to avoid the midday sun on the exposed hilltop
- Bring water since there is little shade along the paved paths
- Check the museum's seasonal hours before visiting, as they vary
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the uphill approach
When to visit
Morning visits avoid the midday sun on the exposed hilltop and offer the clearest light for photographs.
Accessibility
The paved paths to the summit are walkable but have a moderate incline; wheelchair users may find some sections challenging without assistance.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
A full visit including the chapel, monument, and small museum takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, especially for children learning Mexican history, though the execution site theme is more suited to older children.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is allowed throughout the park and around the monuments; museum photography policy may vary.