Culture and Traditions
Destinations
Adventure and Nature
Magical Towns
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MICE tourism
Natural Wonders
Adventure
Colonial Architecture
Culture and Traditions
Destinations
Adventure and Nature
Magical Towns
Information
MICE tourism
THE CRADLE OF THE REBOZO
The exact date of its foundation and the origin of this town are not known, but there are two theories. The first claims that in 1542, when numerous Cuachichiles (or Guachichiles) were baptized, the town was authorized and named Santa María del Río by the Viceroy Don Luis de Velazco.
The second theory states that Primo Feliciano Velázquez wrote a pamphlet called "Descubrimiento y Conquista de San Luis Potosí," in which he recounts that Santa María del Río was founded in 1589 after a "peace agreement."
Among its main tourist attractions are the Lourdes Spring and the hot springs, as well as the Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption, artisan workshops, former haciendas, and delicious gastronomic delights.
During the first half of August, the Regional Rebozo Fair takes place to honor Santa María.
The festivities include sports events, horseback riding, folk dances, artistic performances, and fireworks displays.
Santa María del Río is located 54 km (45 minutes) from the city of San Luis Potosí, 159 km (2 hours) from Querétaro, and 355 km (5 hours) from Mexico City.
Santa María del Río
What to See in Santa María del Río
Tourist Attractions of Santa María del Río
Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción (Parish)
An architectural beauty from the colonial era, this Latin cross-shaped church features an elevated dome above the transept. The main altar is a square structure with a beautiful sculpture of the Virgin of the Assumption at the top.
Haciendas
Santa María was an important stop along the route used by miners to transport silver, leading to the construction of haciendas and estates that still stand today. Some worth visiting are Hacienda de Lourdes, Villa Quemada, Badillo, and Labor del Río.
Monumento al Reloj Bicentenario (Bicentennial Clock Monument)
Located in Martín Bautista Square, the main square of Santa María del Río, this monument was part of the celebrations for the Bicentennial of Independence and the centennial of the Revolution.
It contains a time capsule with representative objects from our time, such as a computer and a USB, to be discovered in the future.
Rebozo House Museum
As the birthplace of the rebozo, Santa María del Río needed a dedicated space for this art. The museum showcases exhibitions on the history of this craft, including its origins, early works, and contemporary artisans.
It was inaugurated in 2019 with the aim of promoting, inside and outside the museum, workshops in which hundreds of visitors can participate.
Visitors can also learn about the various techniques used in making rebozos, as well as other crafts like wooden masks, textiles, and ceramics.
The museum, situated in the center of Santa María del Río, is known for its vibrant colors.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Plaza Martín Bautista
The heart of the town, originally built as the main market, now features a monument with a national symbol, an eagle, and a time capsule containing documents, photographs, and records for future generations to learn more about present-day Mexico.
The square is a lively place with various shops and spots to enjoy leisure time.
Here, you'll find a wide range of rebozos, including the traditional "rebozo de bolita," in various colors and styles.
What to Do in Santa María del Río
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UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES IN SANTA MARÍA DEL RÍO
Explore a Waterfall
El Salto is a 70-meter-high waterfall that forms deep turquoise pools during the rainy season, perfect for swimming. However, access to the waterfall can be restricted due to the presence of a hydroelectric plant.
The best times to visit are during Easter week and the rainy season.
Outside of the rainy season, the waterfall may be dry, but it offers a unique view of the pools.
Explore other destinations in San Luis Potosí
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