Located in central Mexico, the state of Aguascalientes has picturesque towns that are ideal for learning about the region’s history and traditions. Aguascalientes borders the states of Zacatecas and Jalisco.
During your stay in the state capital, we recommend that you walk along the streets to check out the old neighborhoods, churches, gardens and the splendid old architecture that stands in contrast to the modern buildings constructed near the plazas. Be sure to visit the five traditional neighborhoods: La Estacion, La Salud, El Encino, Guadalupe and San Marcos. The latter hosts the famed San Marcos Fair, an annual event that draws many visitors. If you’re visiting during the Day of the Dead holiday, don’t miss the Desfile de las Calaveras (Parade of Skulls), an authentic display of the city’s versatility.
In the surrounding areas, you can visit gorgeous natural environments like El Tunel Porterillo, which has a trail that runs through the Huejucar Canyon, and the Plutarco Elias Calles Dam, an ideal fishing spot. There’s also the Ejido Ecoturistico El Ojote, where adventure-sport enthusiasts can get their fill of rock climbing, rappelling and other exciting recreational activities.
As for crafts, Aguascalientes produces embroidered goods, cowboy attire and saddlery, all of which will take you back to past eras.
During your visit, you should also enjoy the delicious cuisine, such as barbacoa de olla, biznaga tamales, candied guava and caramel sweets, and the famous ladrillos, a flaky pastry.
AGUASCALIENTES
The historic city of Aguascalientes, the capital of the state of Aguascalientes, is located in north-central Mexico, 504 km (312 mi) from Mexico City and 130 km (81 mi) from Zacatecas. The climate is pleasant, with an average year-round temperature ranging from 17º to 20º C (63º to 68º F) and summer highs reaching 23º C (73º F).
Aguascalientes, founded 430 years ago, offers a splendid assortment of old neighborhoods, churches, plazas, gardens, architectural monuments, modern edifices, museums, bullfight arenas and swimming resorts with thermal waters. In this city, you can also attend various traditional events, such as the Festival de las Calaveras (Festival of Skulls) and the San Marcos National Fair, one of the best and oldest showcases of regional culture and folklore. The fair’s diverse offering includes art exhibits, cultural events, dance performances and cockfights.
Also of interest are the city’s five traditional neighborhoods: La Estacion, La Salud, El Encino, Guadalupe and San Marcos, each with its own rich history, strong religious traditions and fascinating baroque architecture.
And then there are the churches of Aguascalientes, such as San Diego, Nuestra Señora del Rosario and the Basilica-Cathedral in the Historic Center, all of which invite you to appreciate the religious splendor of the colonial era.
Another strong draw are the crafts, particularly the embroidered garments, which are made using techniques handed down from generation to generation and have become an important regional cultural symbol. Aguascalientes also produces some of the best wines in the country, which combine perfectly with local dishes like lomo de la abuela and a wide variety of other regional culinary delights. |
