The Mexican flag & scenic overlook atop Obispado hill.

View of the Obipsado from its courtyard.

In the Mexican-American War in 1846, the Obispado became a Mexican stronghold as they attempted to hold off General Worth's advancing troops. After some time, the Mexican forces were defeated and Monterrey fell to the Americans within a few days.

In 1956, the Obispado became a museum... and remains so to this day. Due to the excellent view of the city, the Obispado became a very popular "parking" spot for couples that want to spend some time alone. Lines of parked cars could be seen along the entire road leading up to the Obispado itself just about every night.

In early 2005, Monterrey did something I personally had thought they should do for years--they took advantage of the fact that the Obispado hill actually rises quite a bit higher than the location of the Obispado building. They have built a very steep road that leads to the very top of the Obispado hill and installed a huge Mexican flagpole (and flag, of course!) along with a very nice looking scenic overlook. It's quite impressive since the flag can easily be seen from miles away. Further, since this scenic overlook was built at the very top of the hill, the view of the city from the scenic viewpoint is quite incredible. If you're a photographer looking for a good place to take pictures of Monterrey, look no further!

To visit Obispado from downtown, take Padre Mier street west towards the Osbipado hill until the street ends. Then take a right and continue one block where the street will again end, now at Matamoros street in front of a school. Take a left at the school and as the street subsequently veers right, stay left and head up the sloped street (watch out for oncoming traffic as you veer left!). Follow this street all the way to the Obispado parking lot where you'll be right behind the Obispado building.

I recommend walking around the building and taking a look at the courtyard in front where there are lots of places to sit and view the city. Afterwards, walk west past the parking lot towards a blue sign that reads "Mirador Obipsado". Follow that road all the way up to the flagpole and scenic overlook. It's a fairly steep (and slippery!) road so don't try it if you're in really bad shape, pregnant, etc. It is quite slippery so you might want to be extra careful if the ground is wet.

View looking east over downtown Monterrey from scenic overlook (notice Obispado building in lower right)

View looking over western suburbs of Monterrey from scenic overlook

View looking northwest of Monterrey from scenic overlook (Mountain in picture is Cerro de las Mitras)