Built in 1529 by order of Spanish Conquistador Hernan Cortes, to fit into the lush surroundings with its exuberant vegetation and mild climate, it was to become first a Franciscan monastery during Colonial days, later on, it became a sugar mill and finally, Mexico's biggest sugar refinery. Just 80 minutes away from Mexico City in the state of Morelos on the highway which leads to Acapulco you will find La Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas, a magnificent 17th century construction which after years of careful restoration has now ... (more)