Travel Guide AGUASCALIENTES Contents
DISCOVER AGUASCALIENTES 01
AGUASCALIENTES PROFILE 03
AGUASCALIENTES ATTRACTIONS 04
AGUASCALIENTES DINING 11
AGUASCALIENTES SHOPPING 13
AGUASCALIENTES NIGHTLIFE 15
THINGS TO DO IN AGUASCALIENTES 17 DISCOVER AGUASCALIENTES
Aguascalientes is a beautiful colonial city, featuring important automotive, textile, and electronics industries. The city was founded in 1575 by the Spanish Conquistadors, and earned its name, which translates to “hot waters”, due to the numerous amount of hot springs in the region. Since then, it has attracted travelers looking to enjoy these relaxing, medicinal waters.
Nowadays, people come on vacation to Aguascalientes to enjoy walking its picturesque streets, admiring historic buildings and monuments, and touring the traditional vineyards. Tourists flock to the city from all corners to see the incredible San Marcos Fair, which is one of the most important cultural events in the country. You can also see the beautiful haciendas that have played major roles in the social and economic development of the region, from the middle of the 17th century until the beginning of the 19th century. BUSINESS IN AGUASCALIENTES
If you’re in the city for business you can make the most of the centrally located convention center. You’ll love the excellent business hotels in Aguascalientes, which offer modern facilities and event space close to major shopping malls and industrial parks. If you prefer superior service and lavish amenities, then don’t forget to check out the luxury hotels in Aguascalientes.
Transportation is quick and easy in the city, as it features three beltways for your convenience. The city of Leon is about 90 minutes away, while Guadalajara and Zacatecas are just four hours away, making Aguascalientes an ideal place to do business in Mexico.
1 A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY
After the fall of Tenochtitlan in 1521, lots of the Spanish conquistadors decided to head north in search of riches. They found deposits of silver in these arid lands and started to mine it, which became the economic driving force for the region. Because of the silver, roads were made that connected this newly conquered territory (New Galicia) to New Spain. In addition to the wealth created, the Spanish also found indigenous people, mostly nomads, who instilled terror into the travelers using the poor quality roads that formed the “Silver Route”.
Due to the constant assaults on the roads by the region’s indigenous people, the Spanish decided to establish towns along the “Silver Route”, which were fortified positions for safe travel. This led to the founding of a town in 1575 that had lots of hot springs, which was subsequently called “Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion de las Aguascalientes”.
2 AGUASCALIENTES PROFILE
A colonial city with more than 400 years of history
Host of the famous San Marcos National Fair
Well-established business infrastructure
Home to major automotive, textile, and electronics companies
A city divided into neighborhoods full of tradition and culture
Religious tourism with dozens of churches
Delicious wines and cuisines
Important railway culture
3 AGUASCALIENTES ATTRACTIONS
In Aguascalientes you’ll find countless historic buildings, beautiful temples that date back hundreds of years, and a wide variety of museums showing off valuable works of art. Heading outside of the city, you can visit the region’s bVeautiful historic haciendas and its famous hot springs, which are popular for their healing properties. There’s always a lot to do in Aguascalientes!
SAN MARCOS GARDENS AND TEMPLE
The construction of this beautiful place was finished in 1842 and features a neo-Classic balustrade of pink stone, along with entranceways at all four points of the compass. Nowadays the site is an iconic symbol of Aguascalientes. At the extreme western end of the gardens, you’ll find the San Marcos Temple standing tall.
The construction of the temple started before 1655 and it remained unfinished for more than 100 years, until it was finally completed in 1765. The monument has a Churrigueresque Baroque-style facade, with a neo-Classic chancel featuring, the Our Lady of Mount Carmel in the center, and a sculpture of Saint Mark at the top.
4 THE CATHEDRAL
The cathedral in Aguascalientes is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel and is considered to be the oldest temple in the city. The cathedral is located in the spot where a chapel was founded in 1575, but was later remodeled. The main facade includes elements of Solomonic baroque architecture. SAN MARCOS NATIONAL FAIR
The San Marcos National Fair is one of the most important in Aguascalientes and all of Mexico, attracting millions of visitors every year. It is an event with religious origins that has taken place in the months of April and May since 1823. Over time concerts, livestock shows, beauty contests, children activities, and artistic exhibitions have been added to its program, as well as traditional events like cockfights and bullfights.
SAN MARCOS BULLRING
Aguascalientes has a long rich history of bullfighting, as can be seen in this historic bullring, which was built in 1896. Currently it is used as a bullfighting academy, where children and adults can learn the moves and techniques needed to face this immense animal. The bullring has become an integral part of the San Marcos National Fair, as numerous bullfighting events are held here. It is conveniently located next to San Marcos Garden.
5 THE MONUMENTAL BULLRING
As time passed, the San Marcos Bullring wasn’t large enough to hold the growing number of visitors who traveled from all corners of Mexico to see the events held here. This is why the Monumental Bullring was built, one of the largest and most beautiful in Latin America. It can hold up to 16,000 people and has an elevator for senior citizens and disabled people. Inside there is a private chapel with the “Black Christ of Encino” who the bullfighters pay homage to before they perform.
PALACIO DE GOBIERNO (CITY HALL)
Located on the southern side of the main plaza, this beautiful building dates back to 1665. The construction has a great historic value, and features a charming facade of red volcanic rock and more than a hundred archways that enclose its two courtyards. At the back it has murals made by the Chilean Oswaldo Barra that depict the history of the area and the country.
ENCINO TEMPLE
Built between 1773 and 1796, this temple is where they venerate the Black Christ, whose image appeared sat on a throne that was struck by lightning, and who is commemorated every November 13. They say that the bullfighters are the most fervent devotees of this beautiful black figure. The walls of the temple display a collection of the Stations of the Cross made by Andres Lopez between 1798 and 1801. The Encino Temple is located in Triana, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city.
6 BROKEN CHRIST This enormous statue dominates the landscape of Presa Calles. From the edge of the dock, in the town of San Jose Garcia, you can see this small island that is located in the middle of the lake formed by the dam. The Broken Christ attracts hundreds of thousands of people every year, and the town’s infrastructure is continually improving to be able to cater to the destination’s high demand. The Broken Christ is something not to be missed during your next vacation in Aguascalientes. CASA DE LA CULTURA (HOUSE OF CULTURE) The “Casa de la Cultura” (House of Culture) is located in a 17th century building that used to be a private house, then a nunnery, before being converted into its present function. It features a number of treasures inside, including six bronze plaques with the theme of Aztec gods and kings. The buildings courtyards are commonly used to host book fairs, theater shows, exhibitions, or book launches. REGIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM The Regional History Museum takes you on a journey through the evolution of Aguascalientes, from prehistoric times to the modern day. Inside you’ll find nine galleries displaying the region’s paleontology and different archeological and colonial ceramic artifacts, as well as pieces that date back to the 1914 Revolutionary Convention. It is definitely an obligatory stop during your time sightseeing in this beautiful city. CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM At the Aguascalientes Contemporary Art Museum you’ll find a wonderful collection of the most representative Mexican visual art. The museum also features large galleries where temporary exhibitions are displayed.
7 “DESCUBRE” (DISCOVER) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM On the outskirts of the city you’ll find a wonderful spiral-shaped building, the “Descubre” Science and Technology Museum, an innovative interactive museum. Here you can delve into science and technology, finding out about the mysteries of our planet and the universe, and visualizing a global perspective of the environment that surrounds us. This museum is somewhere different, in which learning becomes an exciting adventure. MUSEUM OF DEATH “La Catrina”, “La Huesuda”, and “La Flaca”, Mexican culture has lots of names for Death. Ever since pre-Hispanic times, the Mexicans have had a unique concept of and relation with Death, which is why the National Museum of Death was founded in 2007. Here you’ll find images, representations and tributes from different eras (pre-Hispanic, colonial, and the modern day). Every year, the museum hosts a wide variety of cultural and recreational activities during the “Festival de las Calaveras” (Festival of Skulls).
8 SAN MARCOS CONVENTION CENTER This beautiful building is built entirely of pink stone. It is used as a convention center by the state government, while during the San Marcos National Fair it functions as a casino. It really is one of the main attractions for tourists during the event. PLAZA DE LAS TRES CENTURIAS (THREE CENTURIES PLAZA) This plaza is located in the neighborhood now known as the “La Estacion” (The Station). In this area you’ll find the hot springs that gave Aguascalientes its name (“hot waters”). Plaza de las Tres Centurias is a large park that houses buildings from the old train station. Today it’s a very important rail museum and an ideal place to take your kids for a fun day out. It offers an hourly show of dancing fountains and a train tour. OJOCALIENTE The hot springs of Ojocaliente were the main supply of water when the city was founded, due to the natural pools that the springs formed. The hot baths were opened to the public in the middle of the 19th century, and today still conserve a neo-Classic style with a French influence, which dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. THE RANCHES OF AGUASCALIENTES In the areas surrounding Aguascalientes you can find beautiful haciendas that used to be famed for the richness of their fields. Even back in the 17th century, the ranch owners had started to install impressive hydraulic systems, including dams, aqueducts, and canals that supplied water to the crops and resulted in a real economic boom for the area. Today, some of these haciendas have remained beautifully preserved, while others have fallen into disrepair, offering just glimpses of their once stunning architecture.
9 BOCA DEL TUNEL ADVENTURE PARK This park is located north of Aguascalientes and offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including zip-lines, hanging bridges, and mountain biking. Have a great time exploring the Potrerillos Dam, and let the adrenaline flow through your veins during a fantastic day out!
EL CARACOL Created in a natural setting, this tourist development has rescued an area of Aguascalientes with a very rich history. The uniqueness of the attractions is what makes this a really fascinating place to visit. El Caracol is based around four different themes: Paleontology, Colonial Hydraulics, Legends and Traditions, and the Environment (Ecology).
You can make the most of your time here with an enjoyable boat tour of the El Cedazo dam, or with a trip on a train. A visit to El Caracol is, without a doubt, a memorable experience!
TUNNELS AND LEGENDS There are a large amount of tunnels underneath the city of Aguascalientes that served as hideouts for the early Spanish colonists, who feared attacks from the indigenous people. The tunnels were later used by thieves, bandits, and other criminals. There’s an endless amount of stories of great treasures hidden in the caves and tunnels, just waiting for that lucky person to stumble upon them.
HUNTING RANCHES Hunting tourism has become more popular in Aguascalientes in recent years. To the northeast of the city you’ll find the Sierra Fria Mountains, which are home to a wide variety of wild plants and animals. The region also features numerous regulated ranches where you can experience the thrill of hunting. You’ll be able to hunt many different species, including rabbits, quails, wild boars, foxes, and deer.
10 AGUASCALIENTES DINING
Despite being one of the smallest states in Mexico, Aguascalientes offers a wide variety of delicious specialty dishes and excellent world-famous wines. The state is one of the main producers of garlic, chili peppers, alfalfa, corn, beans, grapes, peaches, and guava, which is why the dishes are so varied and flavorsome.
There’s a diverse range of cuisine served in the “cenadurias”, “merenderos”, and other establishments of Aguascalientes. The most famous dishes are enchiladas, Aguascalientes-style tongue “pozole” (a soup-like dish), “sopes” (fried cornmeal) topped with refried beans and shredded chicken, and “taquitos dorados doblados” folded tacos filled with potato and topped with a tomato and oregano sauce, served with lettuce, avocado, and cream.
For desserts and candies, Aguascalientes is way ahead of the rest of the field, offering wonderful guava candies made in Calvillo. You’ll find small glasses of milk with guava, guava rolls with caramel and nuts, jellies, empanadas, and cookies.
GUAVA This delicious fruit is a major part of the agriculture of Aguascalientes, especially in the Calvillo area, where you’ll find delicious guava-based dishes and sauces. The guava leaves are also used in medicinal products to alleviate rheumatism, swelling, hair loss, and indigestion.
SAN MARCOS CHICKEN During the three weeks of the San Marcos National Fair you can try one of the event’s most representative dishes: Pollo San Marcos (San Marcos Chicken). It consists of sliced chicken prepared with a tomato sauce and accompanied by serrano chili peppers.
11 TYPICAL CANDIES You’ll find two main typical candies in Aguascalientes. The first and most important isguava candy, for which there are numerous stores that specialize in its production and sale. You’ll also have the chance to try “jamoncillos”, which are made with dulce de leche (a sweetened milk sauce) and come in different shapes and sizes. They can both be found in the many stores in the historic downtown area of the city. PACHOLAS “Pacholas” are breaded beef cutlets made from ground beef, seasoned with different herbs and chili peppers. The dish has its origins in the colonial era, and it is very traditional in different parts of Mexico. The meat is ground in a “metate”, a traditional Mexican cooking tool in the form of a flat stone; every portion is flattened, fried, and served with rice, beans, salad, or nopales. MITLA RESTAURANT This restaurant is the oldest in Aguascalientes, having opened in 1938. Offering traditional Mexican cuisine, the establishment also features great service and a casual atmosphere. It is located in the historic downtown area, just one block away from Plaza de Armas.
CARNITAS IN AGUASCALIENTES There is no better dish than “carnitas” for those with carnivorous souls. The Aguascalientes version consists of pork loin prepared with orange juice, which gives it a unique texture and taste characteristic of the region. The shredded meat is then served with tortillas, guacamole, spicy salsa, and limes.
12 AGUASCALIENTES SHOPPING
During your visit to Aguascalientes you’ll find lots of places to go while you’re searching for the perfect souvenir; there’s everything from very modern stores to traditional shops. In the heart of the historic downtown area, next to Palacio de Gobierno (City Hall), you’ll find a shopping mall that is home to the only jewelry factory in the region, and Centro Zapatero, a shoe store with factory outlets in Leon and Guadalajara.
The handicrafts that you can purchase in Aguascalientes include maiolica pottery (glazed ceramics with intricate colonial designs), sgraffito ceramics (with bas relief), openwork textiles, fire agate items, candies, and local wines.
EL PARIAN MALL
A symbol of pride in Aguascalientes, El Parian was built in 1829, rebuilt in 1952, and underwent its last renovation in 1985. It still conserves its exterior arches, but with a modern feel.
EXPO PLAZA MALL
This mall was constructed as part of the fair perimeter beautification project. It has a wide variety of stores including handicrafts, boutiques, shoe stores, cafes, and a food court, as well as a cinema.
PLAZA VESTIR MALL
This mall was built in 1977 as a result of the worries of numerous businessmen in the state. It was seen as a way to strengthen and support the textile and dressmaking industry. Currently it features a series of stores selling embroidery, woven goods, linens, and clothes for the whole family. The mall also has cafes, silver stores, and gift shops.
13 JUAREZ AND UNION STREETS Located in the historic downtown area, these two streets offer clothing stores for the whole family. As you walk down them you’ll be able to see the deep-rooted customs of the local people. As well as the traditional Teran Market, the Juarez Market is also nearby. ALTARIA MALL The Altaria Mall is an enormous complex with clothes stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and department stores. It is relatively new, as it opened in 2007, but the wide variety of stores has made it an obligatory stop on a shopping trip to Aguascalientes. Whether you’re looking for a good book or the latest fashion items, Altaria is the place to go. NIETO STREET This is one of the most traditional streets in the whole of Aguascalientes. Located in the historic downtown area of the city, it receives shoppers from across the country every day, who are looking to purchase the most representative items of the state, such as embroidery, openwork textiles, woven pieces, fashionable clothes, linens, and more.
14 AGUASCALIENTES NIGHTLIFE
Aguascalientes is a place full of tradition and history, but this doesn’t mean you can’t have a great night out in the city. The bars and clubs in Aguascalientes are varied and entertaining, and generally come to life from Thursday to Saturday after 11 p.m. During your time here you’ll find everything from jazz and rock to romantic, Latin American, and even protest songs. Aguascalientes is also a major producer of wines, brandy, and other liquors that can play a part in an unforgettable evening. WHAT ARE “MERENDEROS”?
In Aguascalientes, it is very common for people to go out for an evening at a “merendero”. These dining establishments are extremely popular because they serve a great variety of snacks just for consuming drinks. Enjoy a beer and delicious pork skin pickled in vinegar and crispy tortilla chips. At the weekends, the merenderos are ideal starting places for an energy-filled night out. Among the most famous in the city are the Merendero de San Marcos and the Merendero de San Pancho.
MERENDERO SAN MARCOS
An excellent wine and liquor menu and a fantastic dinner menu await you at this great place. The establishment offers a Mexican party atmosphere, ideal for drinks with friends or family.
15 MERENDERO SAN PANCHO “Because food and drink come first”: this is the motto of Merendero de San Pancho that has helped it become a tradition among people who enjoy good food and drink. With excellent service, a vibrant atmosphere, flat screen TVs for live sporting events, and live music from fantastic rock bands, this place is ideal for dining or snacking during a fun evening out. ARTURO J. PANI WALKWAY This walkway is located right next to the San Marcos Temple and Gardens. In the evenings, cafes, bars, and merenderos open their doors and bring out their tables to serve clients cold beer. If you’re visiting the walkway during the San Marcos National Fair, you’ll be amazed by the enormous amount of people who come to celebrate it, as the walkway is an integral part of the fair facilities during the months of April and May. THE TRIANGLE OF FUN The avenues Colosio, Independencia, and Universidad form a triangle on the map of Aguascalientes, and inside it you’ll find lots of great bars and clubs that offer music and drinks all night long.
16 THINGS TO DO IN AGUASCALIENTES
Experience the San Marcos National Fair in April
Visit the temples and churches of the historic downtown area
Go to a bullfight at the Monumental Bullring
Enjoy the region’s hot springs near Alameda
Go on a tour to the mountains, rivers, and nearby cliffs
Experience dining in one of the typical “merenderos”
Taste the delicious typical guava candies
Take a tour to the vineyards on the outskirts of the city
Explore the neighborhoods of Aguascalientes with a guided tour
Visit the Museum of Death during the Festival of Skulls held in early November
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