Casa de la Corregidora

The Casa de la Corregidora, the most historically significant building on the Plaza de Armas, was originally the residence of the Spanish magistrate (the corregidor) of Querétaro and his wife, Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez. Josefa — known in Mexican history as La Corregidora — played a pivotal role in launching the Mexican War of Independence in September 1810. The building now serves as the seat of the Querétaro state government.

The facade is a fine example of colonial baroque architecture, with elaborate stonework around the entrance portal and wrought-iron balconies. Visitors can enter the main courtyard during business hours and see the cell in which Josefa was reportedly locked. The courtyard garden is pleasant and the building is worth seeing for its architecture even without the historical associations.

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A story
On the night of 14 September 1810, Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez — La Corregidora — was locked in her room in this building by her husband after she learned the independence conspiracy had been uncovered. She managed to send a warning to Ignacio Allende through a guard, who rode to San Miguel to alert Hidalgo. The next morning, Hidalgo issued the Grito de Dolores, launching the Mexican War of Independence. Her quick thinking changed the course of Mexican history.