Culture and Traditions
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Magical Towns
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MICE tourism
Colonial Architecture
Adventure
Gastronomy
Culture and Traditions
Destinations
Adventure and Nature
Magical Towns
Information
MICE tourism
PLEASANT COLONIAL FLAVOR WITH A HINT OF PEACH AND LEMON SCENT
Nochistlán, whose name means "place of prickly pears" or "place of cochineal insects," is located in the south of Zacatecas, in a valley surrounded by hills.
It was founded in 1532 by Juan de Oñate, following the orders of the conquistador Nuño de Guzmán, in an area inhabited by the Caxcanes during pre-Hispanic times. Thus, the first villa of Guadalajara in Mexico was established, which, though it only survived for one year, was pioneering and persistent until its consolidation a decade later.
Additionally, it was here where the conquistador Pedro de Alvarado (the great Tonatiuh) died as a result of an accident during a conquest battle.
It is a place distinguished by its beautiful landscapes of hills and ravines, as well as its streets with a pleasant provincial atmosphere that invites visitors to stroll among its fruit trees.
Traditions such as the "papaquis" festival, in honor of Saint Sebastian, and their famous "sones," performed by the "jaraberos," are a source of pride for the locals.
The Feast of San Francisco de Asís is also celebrated on October 4th. Moreover, few places in Zacatecas have the mariachi tradition that Nochistlán has; perhaps because it was the first Guadalajara, the best musical groups in the state and the region originate here.
The climate of Nochistlán is rather temperate, and there are no very pronounced temperature variations in different seasons. In the summer months, temperatures fluctuate between 20°C and 25°C, and in the winter months, the lowest temperatures are between 12°C and 14°C.
It is located 237 km (3 hours) from the city of Zacatecas, 105 km (one and a half hours) from Aguascalientes, 166 km (2 and a half hours) from Guadalajara, and 544 km (6 hours) from Mexico City.
Nochistlán
What to See in Nochistlán
Tourist Attractions in Nochistlán
Jardín Morelos
This is the name of its large central square dating back to the late 19th century. It features a traditional quarry kiosk, surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings.
Mercado Municipal (Market)
It's the ideal place to find crafts and typical dishes such as "pollo a la valentina," "jericayas," "gorditas," and "birria," to name a few.
Parroquia de San Francisco de Asís
It's a construction from the 17th century with a sober quarry façade and is consecrated to the patron saint of the town.
San José Temple
It was built between 1896 and 1914 in a style that combines Gothic and Mudéjar elements. Its two elegant towers are another example of the mastery in quarry work characteristic of Zacatecas.
Templo de San Sebastián
It was constructed in the 17th century and is easily recognizable by its yellow facade and three bells located in an open belfry.
Los Arcos Aqueduct
Originally built as a chapel in the 18th century, it's another symbol of the town's history. It was later transformed into a church when modifications and expansions were made in the late 19th century, giving it an eclectic style, with a distinctive open belfry. Visit it at dusk to enjoy its illuminated arches, which create a special atmosphere when combined with the cobbled paths.
La Pila de Afuera
This is another remnant of colonial times. It is one of the main water sources associated with many local legends.
El Parián
This is another characteristic building of Nochistlán. It was built in 1886 and has maintained the majesty of its columns and arches to this day.
La Casa de los Ruiz
This 17th-century mansion is full of history, as it was where the first call for Independence was made in 1810.
La Estancia
Near Nochistlán, you can visit La Estancia with its beautiful landscapes and a temple where the relics of Bishop Juan Cruz de Cabañas, who died in 1824, are kept.
Jocoyole
Visit this community and connect with its inhabitants, sharing their food and learning to bake "pan gordo" (a type of bread). You can go hiking in breathtaking ravines and hills. By the campfire at night, you'll hear the stories from the village elders. You can camp or spend the night in a local house.
What to Do in Nochistlán
Select your Adventure in Zacatecas
UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES IN NOCHISTLÁN
Visit the Cerro de las Ventanas Archaeological Site
Explore the Salto de Toyahua
Visit the Cero del Tuiche, a sacred place
Be amazed by a beautiful waterfall
Just 10 km away lies the community of Toyahua, with a sanctuary that exhibits a beautiful pink quarry façade and houses the image of the Virgin of the Rosario, brought from the 16th century, and highly revered by the region's inhabitants.
The temple has a baroque style and features a legendary cemetery. Nearby, there's a spectacular waterfall, El Salto, with a height of 45 m amidst an incredible landscape.
Discover a sacred place
Visit Cerro del Tuiche and be amazed by its cave paintings, and feel the magical energy surrounding the place.
Must visit destinations in Zacatecas
Fresnillo
Zacatecas
Jerez de García Salinas
Pinos
Sombrerete
Teúl de González Ortega
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