We invite you to discover Jalpa de Canovas, a charming Pueblo Magico that stands as a place where history and nature intertwine. Located in the municipality of Purísima del Rincón, Jalpa is known as one of the most relaxing towns in Guanajuato.
From the moment you arrive, you feel that time stands still, inviting you to walk slowly and enjoy every corner.
Historical Roots
The history of Jalpa de Canovas dates back to 1542, when the Audiencia de Nueva Galicia granted land to Juan Villaseñor. This region, once inhabited by Chichimeca peoples, quickly became one of the most important agricultural areas in Mexico, known as the breadbasket of the country. The hacienda that developed here was imposing, with dams, canals and an advanced agricultural system that marked the history of the region.
Over the years, Jalpa became a hub of agricultural production, and today, walking through the old town of the Ex Hacienda, its gardens and walnut groves is like walking through the living memory of the Bajío. Here, the land continues to be the protagonist, with walnut and quince production standing out in the local gastronomy. The quince harvest, which takes place between July and August, gives rise to handmade sweets that are celebrated at the Nut and Quince Gastronomic Fair.
A Temple that Tells Stories
One of the town's icons is the Templo del Señor de la Misericordia, whose construction began in 1885. Its neo-Gothic red brick architecture is not only a visual delight, but also holds stories ranging from hacienda families to the visit of Porfirio Díaz, who made Jalpa the first provincial hacienda to have electricity. This temple, which began to be built by orders of Doña Octaviana, reflects the evolution and legacy of the community.
Walks and Living Traditions
When touring Jalpa de Canovas, it is impossible not to notice the beauty of its dams, such as Santa Eduviges and Santa Efigenia, true works of engineering that have been vital for the agricultural life of the town. Today, these spaces are also part of the tradition, since Jalpa is a land of passage for pilgrims on their way to San Juan de los Lagos. Many of them make a stop to cross the dam and stop in front of La Mujer de Piedra, a monument that recalls the legend of a female pilgrim turned to stone, eternalizing her faith.
A Deserved Recognition
In 2012, Jalpa de Cánovas received the designation of Pueblo Mágico and, in 2023, was recognized by the World Tourism Organization as Best Tourism Village, an international recognition of its heritage, identity and hospitality.
The History of the Treasury and its Evolution
The Jalpa hacienda, which passed through many hands throughout its history, became famous for its agricultural production. In 1900, Guadalupe Cánovas married Óscar Braniff, a prominent businessman of Porfirio's Mexico. Together, they modernized the hacienda, building a dam that took ten years to complete. This effort not only improved agricultural production, but also marked a significant change in Jalpa's history.
In 2008, Aurora Braniff Rincón Gallardo, a descendant of this prominent family, became the last owner of the hacienda, keeping alive the history and tradition of this emblematic place.
A Destination that Invites You to Experience It
Jalpa de Canovas is not just a place to visit; it is a destination to live, walk and remember. With its rich history, lively traditions and welcoming atmosphere, this Pueblo Mágico is a must-see in Guanajuato.
If you are looking for a place where history, faith and culture intertwine, don't hesitate to visit Jalpa de Canovas. Come and discover its magic, its flavors and the warmth of its people, we are waiting for you!
