A Haven for Chocolate and Coffee

In beverage form, Cholocate has had an important place in Mesoamerican cultures long before the arrival of the Spanish. After the colonial era began, the Spanish became enamored with the hot, frothy chocolate beverage made in local villages.

There is a great story that says that in 1625, the bishop of San Cristóbal, Bernardino de Salazar, was poisoned by some upper-class ladies because he tried to stop them from serving and drinking chocolate in church during Mass. True? Who knows? But a good story to show how hooked the Spanish got.  The evolution of chocolate, its effect on San Cristóbal, and how this village grew up around its dedication to gourmet processing of the sweet treat is worth a read.  Oh, and they love their coffee there too!  Read More