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(CNN Spanish) - Both the capital of the state of Zacatecas, as well as the surrounding towns and cities, offer countless attractions a short distance from Mexico City. History, architecture and tradition are mixed with an imposing nature and gastronomy as authentic as surprising.
About 600 kilometers separate Zacatecas from Mexico City and the trip, whether by plane or by car, is not only worth it, but it could also be considered mandatory.
It is no exaggeration to say that this ancient colonial treasure is a true gift for the eyes and a pampering for the palate. The experience is a kind of journey through the tunnel of time towards the confines of the history of beautiful and beloved Mexico. Its tradition, romanticism and history, in addition to its varied tourist offer, make this destination one of the most attractive in Aztec lands.
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A postcard of the colorful Zacatecas
The beginnings
It all started when approximately 10,000 years ago the first settlers settled in the current territory of Zacatecas, the place was an inexhaustible natural paradise. Among the most important tribes the Zacatecas stood out and hence the name of this state. The word means "inhabitants of the land where grass abounds" in the Nahuatl language.
Already with the arrival of the Spaniards, and due to the richness of its soil, the city became the second most important in New Spain, after Mexico City.
Zacatecas was an important commercial, mining and religious center. Several religious orders were installed in the middle of the year 1500, the Franciscan being the most prominent.
Zacatecas offers true architectural gems carved with the same silver and minerals extracted from its entrails. A place in the world that owns a very rich history and tradition that is worth unraveling.
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Walk, walk and walk
The great Spanish poet Antonio Machado put it into words and Joan Manuel Serrat put music to him: "Walker, there is no way, you make your way when you walk". The Sevillian writer could well have been inspired by Zacatecas, because here the idea is to get lost and enjoy every single step of its unique colonial architecture. The magnificent historic center - declared a World Heritage Site in 1993 - leaves its visitors breathless. And not only for the ups and downs - there are, and many - but for a unique beauty and variety.
Also noteworthy are the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Zacatecas, the Palacio de la Mala Noche and, of course, walking along the charming Hidalgo Avenue.
¿Mezcal? What is that?
How much do you know about this emblematic Mexican alcoholic beverage product of the distillation of the heart of the agave or maguey? Here it is possible to learn. The Ruta del Mezcal, in Zacatecas, is a trip to the heart of the history and production of this ancient alcoholic beverage. The trip includes the visit to haciendas, plantations and villages linked to the production of this Mexican elixir.
During this walk, the mezcaleros teachers teach to drink it with kisses. Yes, he read well, with kisses; So there will be nothing left but to open the senses and the heart to this unique experience.
Enjoy the alleyways
There are many people in the world who have their celebrations based on their music and pilgrimages, and Zacatecas has its own: the alleyways.
At the rhythm of the drum, Zacatecans and tourists walk through the historic center of the city guided by a donkey laden with mezcal barrels. There are different routes depending on the day of the week and the celebrations are always at night. An unforgettable experience.
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Ruins of La Quemada
Something less than 50 km separates the city of Zacatecas from a surprising pre-Hispanic vestige: La Quemada.
Just see photos of the place to want to visit it. This archeological site located in the municipality of Villanueva is subject to various interpretations that are still under study. The space has a large column room with its central square and its labyrinthine walls are a marvel. There is also a ball court and a pyramid called Volitive. The place is an intrigue, either for historians and archaeologists, as for tourists who visit it and do not cease to be amazed.
Zacatecas Aqueduct
Taste for traveling ... and for eating
Walking and discovering always whet your appetite, and here too, Zacatecas, surprises. It is not a novelty to say that Mexican food is magnificent and this Mexican state only elevates it. Zacatecas offers variety, quality and a distinctive gastronomic offer.
The mole, the tail of beef and the pozole zacatecanos are something serious. Also the enchiladas and the zacatecano rabbit are delicacies worth trying. As for your drinks, not everything is mezcal in these parts. Lenten water, mead and wines of perón and cane are some of the local delicacies that can be enjoyed and enjoyed. Sweetie lover? Well, the offer in this department is also wide and varied. The nopal, prickly pear and cajeta sweets are delicacies that deserve to be tasted, as well as the zucchini with milk and the pumpkin and sweet potato milkshakes.
More much more…
Zacatecas offers an open hand as is the case of the Pedro Coronel Museum and its varied art collection, where the works of Picasso, Miró, Dalí and Rivera are not lacking. About 40 minutes by road is the magical city of Jerez, where buying crafts in its dream streets is a real pleasure. The Sierra de Cardos is a magnificent experience. Further away, just over 200 kilometers south, is the magical town of Nochistlán. There it is possible to visit its historic center, the Temple of San Sebastián, the channels of the hydraulic system of Nochistlán and the Salto de Toyahua.
The state of Zacatecas, its capital, the homonymous Zacatecas, and the beautiful surrounding villages offer visitors a dive into the history of our villages and endless emotions and pleasures worth experiencing. Be encouraged to meet and enjoy. After all, what is this about traveling the world?
If that is your plan, let yourself be surprised ... Zacatecas is waiting for you.
Did you know ...
Zacatecas is among the highest cities in Mexico, at 2,469 meters high.
The Zacatecas folklore festival receives more than 200,000 people every year for 8 days.
On July 23, 1914, Zacatecas starred in one of the great battles of national history that defined the fate of the Mexican revolution.
The International Street Theater Festival is celebrated in October, a unique open-air show.
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