El Contadero & the Immaculate Conception Church

Contadero is one of the five original settlements of Cuajimalpa. The name derives from the counting of cattle. During most of the colonial period, livestock was driven here to be accounted for and sold. It still has the feel of a mountainous village, although Contadero is actually just a few minutes drive from the center of Santa Fe. In fact, Contadero is officially the neighborhood of both the famous shopping center and the new Parque La Mexicana just across the street.

Like all of Cuajimalpa, its many mountains and ravines have long been cut off from surrounding Mexico City. Little towns grew in relative isolation until only very recently.

This little town is really centered at the citizen-restored Fountain “La Ranita.” This is at the intersection 16 de Septiembre and the main drag of Avenida Arteaga y Salazar. Named for two of the Martyrs of Uruapan, killed during 1860s, the avenue is the main street through the town. The Calle 16 de Septiembre is a principle local thoroughfare, with the public schools and frequent street fairs.  It’s also home to the Mercado Contadero which is spectacular place to eat if you’ve been stuck surrounded by chain restaurants.

The Church of the Immaculate Conception dates only from 100 years ago when residents asked for their own parish church. The stone cladding and tower stand out for their exceptional beauty.

A feast day is still celebrated every December 8. This is quite a spectacular  night as residents celebrate with bonfires throughout the town.