Only about two hours north from Mexico City lies the town of Querétaro. Historically important as the former capital of the country, and commonly mentioned as a 'not quite so sprawling alternative' to the CDMX, I typically know this town from visiting family. However, Querétaro does have its cool locations, one of which we got to see on our most recent visit, of course together with the cousins, aunts, and nephews that we were visiting for Christmas: the Hercules Brewery.
Industrial Spaces Turned into a Pub
Located in the Northeastern part of the city, right between the Querétaro River and Highway 200, what is a brewery today used to be a rather large complex of textile mills. In fact, it was the the Yarn and Fabric Factory Hercules, founded in 1846, that shaped the whole neighborhood of the town from which it got its name. Even today you can see the surrounding buildings, 19th century workers' housing with their curiously small doorways. However, it is the textile factory itself that is the main attraction.
In 2011, just before the textile mill ceased operation, part of it was turned into a brewery. Today, it has become the main attraction. With a good selection of craft beers ranging across the board, the Hércules has become a popular destination for locals and people from outside of Querétaro as well.
A Photogenic Backdrop to the Beer Experience
If you know me, you will know that I like my beer as much as the next guy, or probably even more. Which is precisely why I am on a bit of a beer break currently. Yeah, Germany with its tasty and yet extremely low priced beer got me used to drinking a couple of liters each evening, so I decided to forego it entirely for a while. And yes, that included even my visit to such an exceptional brewery. So be it, I'm certain there'll be another chance to sample their doubtlessly fine selection of different brews. Still, does this post qualify to enter @detlev s #beersaturday challenge? It may be scratching it, but I want to try nevertheless. After all, today's a Saturday...!
So instead of tasting their beers I focused on the ambience of the place. I simply loved how the factory kept its industrial look (while a brewery is no less industrial, by the way). This goes for the entire venue of the place, as well as the decoration, making good use of the remnants of the heavy machinery stilling hanging out there. Don't ask me what the possible function of these things could have been, your guess is probably as good as mine. The closest thing I can tell is that it had to do with making fabric. But the combination of massive steel hardware, crumbling walls, and the nature that seems to be taking over, adds up into a very aesthetic location for enjoying a beer.
Much More Than Just a Brewery
Even though we did not sample all the services (not to mention cervezas!), I should mention that the brewery is only one of the many things the Hercules is offering visitors these days. There is a hotel, a spa, various restaurants, an auditorium, as well as a complex of halls and gardens which is part of the brewery. So a visit is certainly worthwhile. Check out the Hércules website for more info. As for now, take a minute to enjoy these pics, which kinda speak for themselves. Oh, and have a happy Beer Saturday everyone!
One More Thing: Inviting a Friend
Since this is #BeerSaturday challenge, I should go all the way and quote the next line:
This is #BeerSaturday week and I would like to invite @growandbow to write a post in any language about beer with at least 3 pictures.
Since he just arrived in Mexico, and seems to be fond of beer as well (I remember him choosing the non-alcoholic Störtebeker when we met in person in Berlin), he just might venture over to the Hércules himself. Even though Querétaro is even further from where he is than Mexico City, eventually his explorations will probably take him there.