THE HIGHLANDS OF CHIAPAS (2)San Cristobal de las Casas was founded by the Spanish in 1528, and was the only Spanish town in this predominately Mayan region. When Mexico became independent, the city became the capital of the state of Chiapas. In 1892, the state capital was moved to the lowland city of Tuxtla Gutierrez. As a result, San Cristobal has retained its small-town, colonial atmosphere.

The baroque cathedral of San Cristobal was built in 1693.
 

Another colonial monument is the 16th century Church and Monastery of Santo Domingo.
 

Outside the church, Mayan women from the surrounding villages sell their handicrafts.
 

In the city's marketplace you can see Mayan villagers who have come to town to shop. Each village has its own distinctive style of dress.