Beneath the gaze of El Cofre de Perote mountain lies Xico. It is a city in Veracruz. Xico’s story is one of tradition, flavor, and surprising danger.
Founded in 1313 Xico was originally named Xico-Chimalco. In the Náhuatl language, it means “where there are bee hives of yellow wax.” Today Xico is known for its coffee, tropical fruit, and handicrafts.
The regional specialty is Mole Xico or Xiqueño. It contains over 25 ingredients. This mole is sweeter than others due to more fruits. If you shop at Costco, look for Xiqueno Mole.
Every year in July Xico hosts a large bullfighting event. The festival of Santa María Magdalena takes place from July 19-25. The whole village comes alive for this celebration. Gifted artisans create sawdust drawings on the main street. These brightly colored alfombras depict scenes about the Patron Saint.
One visitor vividly remembers July 22 1998. She was taking pictures of the Running of the Bulls. She got hit by a bull. It lifted her high into the air and flipped her. She landed on her head. Fortunately she survived.
The xiqueños are proud of their mestizo heritage. They celebrate their roots in their daily lives. Coffee growing, agriculture, and cattle raising dominate the area.
Come explore Xico. Some say brujas witches come out at night during the full moon. They chase after young lovers. Visit the nearby waterfalls of Texolo. The movie “Romancing the Stone” was filmed there.
The main street Hidalgo leads to the cathedral. Here you will find businesses and restaurants.
El Acamalín is one of the favorite restaurants. Doña Guadalupe makes delicious homemade dishes. El Mesón Xiqueño has a lovely invernadero with parrots. El Paraje Coyopolan sits by a stream.
Derivados El Acamalín sells the best mole. You can also buy homemade licores like verde de Xico or mora. Don’t forget the freshly ground coffee. Danubio Azul offers some of the best p an de huevo.
Xico is a village of enchantment. Its charms touch all the senses.