Former Convent of San Agustín: the baroque splendor of Salamanca
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What attracts the visitor's attention when entering the temple is the golden glow that covers its walls, coming from the ornamental altarpieces placed between 1768 and 1782. These pieces, finely worked, represent one of the highest expressions of the American Baroque, and have been recognized as the “Conjunto Relicario Virreinal de América” for their artistic and symbolic value.
On the right, the visual tour begins with the altarpiece of the Lord of the Column, followed by one dedicated to the Angels and Archangels, and a third in Plateresque style in honor of San Nicolás de Tolentino. On the left side, the first to appear is the altarpiece of the Blessed Souls of Purgatory, an oil painting with baroque details that invites contemplation. Further on are the altarpieces dedicated to the Virgin of Sorrows, Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Thomas of Villanova.
The main altarpiece, in neoclassical style, presides over the altar and pays homage to the Virgen del Socorro and San Juan de Sahagún. To its right, a Churrigueresque altarpiece honors Saint Joseph, father of Jesus, while on the left side is dedicated to Saint Anne, mother of Mary.
Every corner of the temple tells a story, every detail is a testimony of the fervor and mastery of those who built it. This place not only invites to prayer and reflection, it also represents a journey into the past through the finest religious art of the viceroyalty.
For tourists and locals alike, visiting the Ex Convento de San Agustín requires time and attention: it is a space to look at calmly, stop and discover. From its paintings to its viceregal furnishings, everything in this precinct speaks of the cultural legacy that has endured for centuries.
The relevance of the site has transcended borders. In 2002, it was visited by the King and Queen of Spain, reaffirming its international importance as an artistic and spiritual heritage.
If you are passing through Salamanca or planning a cultural route through Guanajuato, do not leave out this hidden treasure of the novo-hispanic baroque. Come and be dazzled by the Ex Convento de San Agustín: a place where history, art and faith intertwine to offer a unique experience.
Location:
Andrés Delgado, Centro, 36700 Salamanca, Gto.
Peña Sola
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Peña Sola is much more than just a restaurant; it is a unique destination that fuses good food with nature and adventure. In this beautiful corner, you can savor delicious homemade breakfasts and an a la carte menu that will delight your palate.
Schedules and Services
The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Wednesday through Friday, start your day with an a la carte breakfast and, between 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm, we offer beverage service only. On weekends, enjoy a country buffet breakfast from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm and then an a la carte menu until 5:00 pm. Remember that it is advisable to make a reservation, as the influx of visitors can be high.
Outdoor Activities
Peña Sola is a paradise for adventure lovers. Enjoy self-trekking and explore the trail at your own pace. Reach the breathtaking 360° viewpoint, where the panoramic views will take your breath away. This activity does not require reservations and is available from Wednesday to Sunday.
If you are looking for a more immersive experience, consider camping at Peña Sola. We offer camping services from Friday to Saturday and Saturday to Sunday. For only $320 MXN per person, you can enjoy the camping area and a delicious buffet breakfast the next day. Remember to bring your own tent and firewood, as they are not sold on site.
For the more adventurous, we have rappelling and climbing! These activities take place from Wednesday to Saturday and require reservations one week in advance. For $905 MXN, you can enjoy an adrenaline-filled activity that includes breakfast. If you want to do both activities, the package is $1,050 MXN.
Don't forget to experience the Victoria Suspension Bridge. This bridge is an opportunity to leave your fears behind and hang a ribbon with a positive wish for only $50, an activity that does not require a reservation.
La Trajinera
On Sundays, immerse yourself in tradition with a trajinera ride, where you can enjoy a 15-minute tour that includes access to the suspension bridge and self-hiking for only $50 per person, a perfect way to enjoy with the family!
At Peña Sola, your pets are welcome, which makes this place an ideal destination to share unforgettable moments in nature. We invite you to enjoy a place where adventure and good food come together to offer you a unique experience, come and live the magic of Peña Sola, we are waiting for you with open arms!
Location:
La Ordeña - Juventino Rosas Highway Km 5, Salamanca, Guanajuato, Mexico. Salamanca, Mexico
Contact us:
La Hacienda Cañada de Ortega: A Journey through History in Salamanca
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The hacienda features impressive viceregal architecture, complemented by spacious patios, an old mill, cozy rooms and a kitchen that evokes times gone by. Through its Camino Real, visitors can explore the temple, the tienda de raya and the mesón, each with its own story to tell.
Today, Cañada de Ortega is located within a Natural Protected Area, which makes it an ideal destination for ecotourism and adventure lovers. Here, you can enjoy activities such as rappelling, climbing, zip-lining, horseback riding, biking and camping in an impressive natural environment. This environment not only provides excitement, but also allows visitors to connect with the beauty of the nature that surrounds the hacienda.
Hacienda Cañada de Ortega is also a popular wedding venue. Its facilities and local gastronomy make it a unique option in the region. If you are looking for a more immersive experience, you can stay in its comfortable rural tourism rooms and participate in productive activities, such as the production of artisanal cheeses, honey and xoconostle. In addition, you will have the opportunity to collect mead and taste the traditional pulque accompanied by a delicious molcajete of guajillo sauce.
This tourist area is a cultural, gastronomic and historical heritage. In the times of the gold coin, Cañada de Ortega had a small square that functioned as a market and a store that belonged to the owners of the hacienda. Its history is intertwined with the daily life of those times, where travel was done on foot, by donkey or on horseback.
The hacienda houses a chapel dedicated to the Lord of Mercy, built in 1870, which was erected when the ranch acquired hacienda status. During the Revolution, the villistas burned part of the chapel that was under construction, but today, the chapel officiates mass on Sundays, keeping alive the religious tradition of the community.
At the end of your visit, don't forget to stop by the local handicraft store “La Viznaga”, where they offer workshops on cardboard making, flaked wax and traditional cooking, giving you the opportunity to take a little piece of the local culture home with you.
Hacienda Cañada de Ortega is a place where history, culture and adventure come together to offer a unique experience. Come and discover this wonderful destination that will transport you to another era while you enjoy the warmth of its landscapes and the richness of its heritage, we are waiting for you with open arms!
Location:
Cañada de Ortega Hacienda, Salamanca, Mexico
Contact us:
462 435 0405
462 435 0405
[email protected]
The heart of León: a tour of its historic center!
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Martyrs' Square
Begin your adventure at the Plaza de los Mártires, a beautiful formal garden that serves as an oasis in the midst of urban activity. Strolling through this green area will allow you to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by history and architecture. It is the perfect place to relax for a moment before continuing your exploration. And don't forget that, once here, you have the opportunity to go shopping nearby. There are many stores and markets offering local products and handicrafts that you will love.
León Cathedral
Your next stop should be the majestic Cathedral of Leon, one of the most important in Mexico. This impressive building is a testament to the city's rich history. Upon entering, you will be amazed by its high arches, colorful stained glass windows and the peaceful atmosphere inside. Here you can learn more about the history and culture of León, while you let yourself be carried away by the beauty of its architecture and the spirituality of the place.
Expiatory Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Continuing with your tour, you cannot miss the Expiatory Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This multicolored temple, located in the old part of León, is a masterpiece that deserves to be contemplated. Its detailed facade and impressive towers will take your breath away. Inside, you can explore the different altars and catacombs, which will allow you to learn more about the history and devotion surrounding this emblematic place.
Triumphal Arch Calzada de los Héroes
To finish your tour, head to the imposing Calzada de los Heroes Triumphal Arch. This enormous arch, with a majestic lion at the top, is one of the most emblematic sites in León. Designed to celebrate the declaration and consummation of Mexico's independence, its grandeur is a symbol of pride and resistance for the people of León. It is the perfect place to take photos and reflect on the city's rich history.
Don't miss it!
Downtown León is a vibrant place full of history and culture. Every step you take will lead you to a new discovery, whether in its plazas, temples or monuments. So be sure to take the time to explore every nook and cranny and immerse yourself in the essence of this wonderful city - we are waiting for you to experience León in all its splendor!
Guanajuato Museum of Art and History
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The impressive collection of 33 classical sculptures, which are faithful replicas of some of the most iconic works of Greek and Roman art, awaits you. Among the most outstanding pieces are the famous Aphrodite of Melos, the powerful group of Laocoön and the majestic Victory of Samothrace; all are witnesses to the splendor of civilizations that have left an indelible mark on the history of art. An excellent opportunity to enjoy the classical legacy without leaving the country!
Learn about the history of Guanajuato from its origins.
Your tour of the museum does not stop at classical art. The Regional Culture Hall invites you to explore the cultural development of the state from pre-classical times, with the Chupícuaro culture, to the significant changes of the 20th century. Here you can observe how Guanajuato has evolved through time, admiring pieces of baroque art, details about colonial architecture, the importance of mining in the region and representations of daily life in different periods. A valuable aspect of this room is its commitment to inclusion, as it is part of the IntegrArte program, which provides accessibility resources so that all people can enjoy and learn without barriers.
Immersive and interactive experiences
But that's not all. Can you imagine going into a mine without leaving the museum? In this section of the tour, you can. The museum has a simulated mine that includes sound effects, real minerals and interactive screens in Spanish and English. In addition, you will have the opportunity to see a model of the emblematic Juarez Theater and learn about how mining arose in the region, its impact on the economic and cultural development of the state, and its influence that endures to this day.
Practical information for your visit
The Museum of Art and History of Guanajuato is open during the following hours:
🗓️ From Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
🗓️ Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
🎟️ Admission to permanent exhibitions: Free!
Don't forget to follow them on social networks to keep up to date with their agenda of temporary exhibitions, cultural events, workshops and activities for all ages.
Immerse yourself in the history and art of León.
Shopping in León, the Footwear Capital of the World!
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A journey through the footwear tradition
The elaboration of leather products is an artisan tradition in León, and learning about this process will allow you to appreciate the pieces you purchase even more. You can visit up to three leather workshops and a shoe factory, which will give you a unique and authentic shopping experience. Imagine seeing how those shoes you love are made, and maybe even taking a pair home with you.
Combine shopping and dining
To make your experience even more memorable, why not combine your shopping with the delicious gastronomy of León? Some tours offer the opportunity to visit a shoe factory and taste typical dishes of the region. This way you can satisfy your appetite while acquiring those products you've been craving for. You can't miss it!
Shopping malls and various options
León has modern shopping malls that guarantee an excellent shopping experience. Here are some of the most outstanding ones:
Zona Piel: If you are looking for quality leather goods, this is the ideal place. Here you will find belts, jackets, bags and, of course, a wide variety of shoes.
Plaza Mayor: One of the largest shopping malls in the Bajío, where you can explore department stores, name brands, as well as excellent restaurants and entertainment options such as bowling and movie theaters.
Altacia Shopping Center: With an open-air design, Altacia offers department stores and internationally recognized brands, as well as the Bajío Aquarium and diverse gastronomic options.
City Center: This is León's most modern shopping center, with an attractive design and a wide range of stores, restaurants and movie theaters.
Galerías Las Torres: A place that combines department stores, supermarkets and restaurants, ideal for a day of shopping.
Centro Max y Galería del Zapato: A traditional shopping mall offering a variety of shoe, accessory and furniture stores.
MULZA Footwear Outlet: If you're looking for bargains, this outlet is not to be missed. With more than 450 different brands, you're sure to find shoes at great prices.
Outlet Factory Shops: Next to the MULZA, here you will find prestigious brands at reduced prices, as well as a fast food area and a gym.
Crafts and more
In addition to footwear and leather goods, León is an excellent place to purchase handicrafts from all over the state. Be sure to explore the cutlery and blacksmith work, where you can find swords, machetes, knives and grilles, as well as bags incorporating palm weavings with attractive designs.
So, if you are planning a trip to León, don't forget to include a shopping stop! You're sure to find unique and quality products that you'll love. For more information about the shopping malls and the options they offer, visit Leon Mexico - get ready for an unparalleled shopping experience! 🛍️
Explore León aboard the León Tour!
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Tour through the Heart of Leon
As the tour progresses, you'll enjoy a stroll down the iconic Madero Street, lined with stores and local life. It's the perfect place to soak up the lion's atmosphere. You can't miss the impressive Templo Expiatorio, an architectural jewel that stands majestically and captures the attention of all visitors. This tour will take you to the Historic Center, where you can appreciate the culture and history that characterize León, a city that combines tradition and modernity in every corner.
Stop at San Juan de Dios
One of the most anticipated stops on the tour is San Juan de Dios, a place that represents the essence of León. Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious snow, taste freshly made churros and try various local delicacies that will make you feel like a true Leonese. This is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the authentic León culture and enjoy the warmth of its people.
The fun continues!
The tour ends again at the Cultural Forum, but the fun doesn't end here. Take the opportunity to visit the Sculpture Garden and the Museum of Art and History, obligatory stops for lovers of art and natural beauty. These spaces are perfect for relaxing and continuing to enjoy the culture that León has to offer.
Join the Experience!
The León Tour is more than just a simple tour; it is an invitation to discover the essence of León while you have fun and enjoy yourself with your family and friends. Play this adventure and don't hesitate to share your experiences, we are waiting for you to explore together the best of León! Don't miss the opportunity to live this unique experience in one of the most dynamic cities in Mexico, hop on the León Tour and let yourself go!
Metropolitan Ecological Park of Leon
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This park is not only a place to contemplate the natural beauty, but also a perfect place for physical activity. With two trails of more than seven kilometers, you can run or ride a bike while surrounded by a fresh and revitalizing environment. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, don't miss the tire train that runs around the contour of the dam! It's a fun way to get to know the park and enjoy the views.
Adventure and family lovers will find in the Metropolitan Ecological Park a place full of activities. You can camp in safe and well-equipped areas, enjoy children's games and visit the Ciudad Infantil, a space designed to scale for children to learn about road safety education while having fun. In addition, the park is pet friendly, which means you can take your faithful furry friend with you to enjoy a day of recreation together.
And if you're a sports fan, the park hosts high-quality events throughout the year, such as the International Hot Air Balloon Festival, triathlons and athletic races - there's always something exciting on the horizon!
The mission of the Metropolitan Ecological Park is to offer a space for recreation and education of high quality, guaranteeing environmental conservation and promoting sustainability. With a vision towards 2040, they seek to be an international reference in ecological parks, promoting health and social integration.
So, if you haven't visited this wonderful place yet, don't wait any longer! The Metropolitan Ecological Park of Leon awaits you with open arms for you to enjoy a day full of fun, learning and connection with nature. For more information about costs, requirements for camping or bringing your pet, we invite you to consult directly with the park. Make your plans and come and live the experience! 🌼🚴♂️
Location:
Blvd. Adolfo López Mateos Nte. S/N, El Palote, 37130 León de los Aldama, Gto.
Contact us:
477 717 4410
[email protected]
Irapuato Zoo (ZooIra): A Destination for Fun and Education
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A Commitment to Education and Conservation
ZooIra's main mission is to conserve species and provide a recreational space for families, with a special focus on the development of children. Every year, more than 23,000 people visit the zoo, where it collaborates with civil associations and educational institutions to promote environmental care and social inclusion.
- Launch yourself from the Tyrolean traverse
If you are looking for adrenaline, you can't miss the 240-meter zip line! The view from the top is spectacular and it is an experience that will leave you wanting to repeat.
- Fishing in the Lake
Enjoy a quiet afternoon fishing in the zoo's lake. You just need to pay for the permit at the ZooIra offices or at the ticket office.
- Meet the Farm Inhabitants
Visit the farmhouse upon entering, where you can interact with goats, pigs, cows, chickens and bunnies. There is also a play area for the little ones, ensuring that the whole family has fun.
- Take a VIP Tour
For a unique experience, consider the VIP tour, where a guide will take you to meet all the zoo's species. You'll have access to restricted areas and the opportunity to interact with some of the animals. It's recommended to book at least three days in advance for groups of at least six people.
- Boat and Train Rides
Take a fun tour around the small lake and get up close with the ducklings, or enjoy a train ride throughout the zoo. Both activities are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- Enter the Herpetarium
Dare to meet the fascinating species of reptiles and amphibians that inhabit the herpetarium, all in a safe environment.
- Celebrate your little ones' birthday
If you're looking for a special place to celebrate your children's birthday, ask about renting the space. The little ones will love celebrating in a natural environment full of animals!
- Visit ZooIra
The Irapuato Zoo is more than just a place to see animals; it's a space for learning and fun that promotes respect for nature and wildlife. So if you're in Irapuato or planning to visit the region, don't hesitate to include ZooIra in your itinerary.
Come enjoy a day full of adventure, education, and memorable moments at the Irapuato Zoo! 🦓🌳🎈
Location:
Vasco de Quiroga Blvd. s/n Morelos Neighborhood (6.28 km), Irapuato, Mexico
Contact us:
Phone:
462 627 4437
462 130 6179
Zooleón Park of Life: A Sanctuary of Life and Conservation
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A Symbol of Conservation
Upon entering the Zooleón, you will be greeted by imposing elephant tusks that cross at the entrance, a symbol of protest against poaching and habitat loss due to human activities. The base of these tusks features a bracelet representing the diversity of life that the zoo hosts, reminding us of the importance of protecting our ecosystems.
The zoo not only exhibits animals but is also dedicated to breeding programs and the conservation of endangered species. From the birth of peacocks in 2003 to the successful reproduction of golden eagles and flamingos in recent years, Zooleón has established itself as a leader in the protection of Mexican and global wildlife.
Interactive Experiences
Visitors to Zooleón can enjoy a unique tour through habitats designed to simulate the animals' natural environments. As a place that promotes learning and fun, the zoo offers educational activities and awareness programs on the importance of environmental care.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Zooleón implemented the “Safe Visit” concept, allowing visitors to explore the zoo from the comfort of their vehicles. This new format includes an interactive guide that accompanies visitors throughout the safari, making the experience educational and entertaining.
A Family Destiny
The mission of Zooleón is to conserve and preserve wildlife while promoting respect for the environment. It is an ideal place for families and groups of friends to spend a day full of adventure, learning about wildlife and enjoying the natural beauty that the region offers.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit Zooleón. Come and immerse yourself in this wildlife sanctuary, where every visit contributes to species conservation and the planet's well-being. Discover the magic of nature and be part of the story of environmental protection and care in León! 🦓🌿🌍
Location:
Cam. A Ibarrilla KM 6, 37207 León de los Aldama, Gto.
Contact us:
477 210 2335
WhatsApp: 477 895 4230
[email protected]