A BAROQUE JEWEL IN MEXICO

The Historic Center of Zacatecas is a cultural asset inscribed in 1993 on the World Heritage List. The Historic Center of Querétaro is a cultural heritage site inscribed in 1996 on the UNESCO World Heritage List..

The city of Zacatecas is the capital of the state and was founded on September 8, 1546, on a steep slope of a narrow valley due to the discovery of a rich silver vein. Due to the exploitation of the metal, the city prospered and reached its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries when it established itself as one of the most important silver mining centers in the country and one of the main cities in New Spain.

The city, with its face of quarry and heart of silver, is located at the bottom of a ravine formed by several hills: Virgen, Clérigos, Grillo, Padre, and Bufa, the latter of which has become the emblem of the city.

Its urban layout adapted to the twists and turns of the mountain, creating undulating streets dotted with imposing colonial buildings, squares, beautiful balconies, and romantic corners, where the pink quarry stone becomes present step by step. Many of the streets still bear their original names, speaking of a past that evokes legends, traditions, and ancient trades.

The religious spirit of its inhabitants and the prosperity of its rich mines were reflected in the construction of sumptuous civil and religious buildings.

Due to being one of the best-preserved colonial cities in the Americas, in 1993, the Historic Center of the City was declared a "World Cultural Heritage" by UNESCO.

Visiting Zacatecas is undoubtedly a journey back to the colonial era, reflected in its majestic architecture of exceptional artistic and historical value.

To celebrate the founding of the city, the National Fair of Zacatecas is organized in September. The celebration lasts for three weeks, and numerous events take place, such as livestock exhibitions, concerts, street processions, bullfighting, rodeo, sports and cultural events, amusement rides, popular theater, fireworks, and other activities.

Another significant festival is the Cultural Week of Zacatecas, which takes place in April, coinciding with the religious celebration of Holy Week and Easter. The week features theater performances, painting exhibitions, literature events, opera concerts, and other national and international activities.

The territory generally has a dry climate, although in the southern regions, a more temperate and sub-humid climate can be enjoyed. It has an average annual temperature of 16.9°C. The coldest months are from November to January, and the hottest months are from June to September.