Just 177km north of Guanajuato lies Aguascalientes, a thriving Mexican city where colonial charm meets modern energy. Founded in 1575 by Spanish explorer Juan de Montoro Rodríguez, this provincial capital has grown into a vibrant metropolis of nearly one million inhabitants. While glittering shopping centers and upscale hotels stretch along Highway 45 to the north, the city’s soul resides in its magnificent historic center.
Historic Treasures & Cultural Gems
At the heart of Aguascalientes lies the stunning Plaza de la Patria, where the grand cathedral and Palacio de Gobierno captivate visitors with their architectural splendor. The palace’s striking murals alone justify a visit, while art enthusiasts will adore the museums dedicated to Mexican masters José Posada and Saturnino Herrán. These cultural attractions make the city perfect for a 2-day cultural immersion.
A Feast for the Senses
Your visit wouldn’t be complete without sampling Aguascalientes’ famous street food. Seek out bírria – a mouthwatering roast goat or mutton stew locals swear by. As evening falls, follow the music drifting through plazas where live bands regularly perform. The city bursts with celebration year-round, from the legendary Feria de San Marcos (Mexico’s largest fair) to weekly fiestas that keep the streets alive with color and rhythm.
Discover More of Central Mexico
San Marcos Festival: Mexico’s Premier Cultural Celebration
Every spring, Aguascalientes transforms into Mexico’s cultural capital during the legendary Feria de San Marcos. From mid-April through May, the Jardín San Marcos comes alive with bullfights that echo tradition, electrifying live music performances, film festivals celebrating Mexican cinema, and joyful carnival rides for families. Best of all? Many events won’t cost you a peso – this vibrant celebration truly offers something unforgettable for every traveler.
José Guadalupe Posada Museum: Where Mexican Art Comes Alive
Tucked away just south of downtown, the Museo José Guadalupe Posada stands as a shrine to Mexico’s most influential printmaker. Here’s where art lovers discover the genius behind México’s iconic skeleton art and biting political satire. Walking through the exhibits, you’ll encounter original lithographs straight from Posada’s workshop and plates used in his revolutionary printing techniques.
The Master of Macabre Art
Born in Aguascalientes in 1852, Posada revolutionized Mexican visual culture with his striking calavera skeletons and social commentary. His workshop adventures took him from lithography to groundbreaking zinc etching techniques, creating that distinctive hatched look seen in his revolutionary broadsheets. While his skeletons dance through Mexico’s Day of Dead celebrations today, this museum reveals his full artistic range – from political cartoons criticizing corrupt leaders to vivid depictions of daily Mexican life. The museum beautifully showcases how Posada’s unique blend of Catholic imagery and pre-Columbian death symbolism created a visual language that still defines Mexican art.
Saturnino Herrán: Mexico’s Forgotten Master
While Diego Rivera became world-famous, his contemporary Saturnino Herrán painted Mexico’s soul. Hailed as “the greatest painter of Mexicans and the most Mexican of painters,” this Aguascalientes native pioneered indigenous-inspired art decades before the muralist movement. Visit Museo de Aguascalientes to see his dignified portrayals of Mexican workers and stunning stained-glass creations – proof that some national treasures fly under the tourist radar.
National Museum of Death: Embracing Mexico’s Unique Relationship with Mortality
Three blocks from the art museum, the Museo Nacional de la Muerte offers an unexpectedly vibrant journey through México’s fascination with mortality. Start with colorful pre-Columbian skull sculptures that resemble festival decorations more than morbid relics. The collection evolves through colonial-era religious art into a stunning gallery of modern Mexican works – including pieces by Posada himself. After contemplating death’s artistic legacy, recharge in the peaceful courtyard café beneath San Diego Temple’s dome.
Mercado de la Bírria: A Feast for the Senses
Follow your nose to Aguascalientes’ ultimate foodie experience at Mercado de la Bírria. Along the Victoria and Unión market alley, expert chefs roast succulent goat meat until it falls off the bone. Join locals at bustling stalls, savor earthy consommé dipped with fresh tortillas, and discover why this carnivore’s paradise deserves its cult following.
🌟 The Travaloca Travel Editors Community is a dynamic collective of individuals united by their passion for travel and their dedication to high-quality content creation. This community serves as the driving force behind Travaloca's informative and engaging travel resources. ✨ Core Identity: This group consists primarily of passionate travel enthusiasts who have turned their love for exploration into a commitment to writing and content curation. Members are recognized for their: Extensive Travel Experience: Possessing valuable firsthand knowledge from their journeys worldwide. Aptitude for Writing and Editing: Demonstrating a keen interest and skill in crafting, reviewing, and perfecting travel narratives, guides, tips, and reviews. Dedication to Storytelling: Transforming personal experiences and destination knowledge into accessible, inspiring, and reliable information for a global audience. 📝 Community Focus: The community’s primary role is to contribute, edit, and maintain the diverse range of content on Travaloca's platform. They ensure the information provided is accurate, engaging, and reflective of current travel trends. In essence, the Travaloca Travel Editors Community is where travel passion meets editorial excellence, enriching the user experience and solidifying Travaloca’s standing as a trusted travel resource.
