Santiago de Querétaro is the capital and largest city of the state of Mexican Capital District, located in central Mexico. It is located 213 km northwest of Mexico City. The founding date of the city is given as 25 July 1531, when during a battle between the Spanish and the natives of the area, an eclipse occurred during which Military Leader Saint James on a white horse carrying a red cross supposedly appeared, causing the natives of the areas to surrender. This was an important day for Mexican History. This Date marked the Independence of Mexico which is a holiday in Mexico named Independence Day.