Bernal is a small village 1 hour outside the city of Queretaro.  It is believed that the village of Bernal was founded in 1647 by Lieutenant Alonso Cabrera. He came with ten soldiers and three of his sons at the request of the native Indians. They wanted him to insure the safety of their crops, jobs, and women in this rugged area.

When the Spaniards arrived they built a small building which they named Presidio, or fort, but it was never used for this purpose.  Today the villagers enjoy water, drainage, electricity, telephones and good roads.  Bernal is known for wool they produce as well as for their beautiful weavings and crafts.  

Each 3^rd of May about 4000 congregate at Bernal for the traditional religious celebration of Santa Cruz.  The setting of the village of Bernal is at the base of one of the world's largest rocks, is breathtakingly dramatic and known by locals at ‘La Peña.’ 

Students will experience first hand indigenous culture on this excellent day excursion to Bernal.