A formidable building with thick stone walls, it was once used as the city’s granary and served as the stage for a battle of great historic relevance in the Mexican War of Independence.
When the local indigenous people rose up against Spanish control, a young miner named Juan José de los Reyes Martínez carrying a stone slab on his back as protection from gunshots, started a fire at the granary’s main entrance; allowing the locals access to attack the Spanish inside. This historical figure was affectionately nicknamed as ‘El Pípila’.
Today, the building has been repurposed as a museum and the esplanade in front is used to host several events for the Festival Internacional Cervantino.
Additional info: Opens Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00 and Sundays 10:00 to 15:00. Admission fees apply.
The City Wax Museum is close by, a place where you’ll be able to take a picture with memorable characters from history, sports, politics and show business, albeit it’s just their wax doppelganger! Consider checking it out after your visit to ‘Alhóndiga de Granaditas’.
