High in the mountains of Mexico City sits San Lorenzo Acopilco. A place steeped in history and breathtaking views. This isn’t just any town. It’s one of the five original villages of Cuajimalpa. Imagine a rugged town cool almost cold year-round. That’s San Lorenzo Acopilco. At 3350 meters above sea level it’s the highest town and westernmost pueblo within Mexico City.
The heart of San Lorenzo Acopilco is its church complex. The Temple and Chapel of San Lorenzo Acopilco share a beautiful atrium. A small civic kiosk sits nearby. Sadly the complex suffered damage in the 2017 earthquakes. It has since undergone a careful restoration.
This land has a rich history. According to historian Otoniel Contreras Esquivel the area was occupied during a 13th-century expansion from Malinalco. A prince named Copil led this expansion. The town’s name Acopilco means Place of the waters of Copil. The name reflects this territorial takeover.
Construction of the chapel began in 1536. They built this octagonal church using riverstones. Later the Carmelites from Desierto de los Leones helped add the vaulted ceiling. This ceiling unfortunately was damaged in 2017. The parish church itself started in 1771. It’s famously known for hosting the Zapatistas. They used it as a military barracks during the Revolution. The bell tower a more recent addition dates from 1977.
From the town center neighborhoods spread south and west. La Pila the highest and youngest of these is worth exploring. It’s a distinct mountainous area begun only about 75 years ago.
San Lorenzo Acopilco is a remarkable place. Its history is as rugged as its landscape. The views alone make it worth a visit. But it’s the blend of history culture and stunning scenery that makes San Lorenzo Acopilco truly unforgettable. A testament to the enduring spirit of a town high in the mountains.