South from Guadalupe on Highway 45 is the state of Aguascalientes. The colonial city and state capital of Aguascalientes is a railroad center for this area. Industry and crafts (especially sarapes, linen work, and hand embroidered cotton) contribute greatly to the livelihood of this modern city. The making of wine and the distilling of brandy are other important industries in this grape growing area.
The name of the town refers to the town's location near thermal springs. These springs provide an opportunity for visitors to indulge themselves in a languorous afternoon of mineral baths and swimming.
For many years the townsite was a small outpost in Chichimeca Indian territory; the Chichimecas were hostile and warlike, making the conquest of the area by Pedro Alvarado nearly impossible. Only after many futile attempts and frustrating defeats was he successful. Don't miss the Government Palace, a mansion of the 1600s belonging to the Marquis de Guadalupe.
San Marcos Fair, the spring festival of Aguascalientes, is celebrated in late April for about 2 weeks. An occasion in honor of the city's patron saint, the San Marcos Fair features dancing, fireworks, cockfighting, and bullfighting. Accommodations will be difficult to obtain during the celebration.
South from Guadalupe on Highway 45 is the state of Aguascalientes. The colonial city and state capital of Aguascalientes is a railroad center for this area. Industry and crafts (especially sarapes, linen work, and hand embroidered cotton) contribute greatly to the livelihood of this modern city. The making of wine and the distilling of brandy are other important industries in this grape growing area.
For many years the townsite was a small outpost in Chichimeca Indian territory; the Chichimecas were hostile and warlike, making the conquest of the area by Pedro Alvarado nearly impossible. Only after many futile attempts and frustrating defeats was he successful. Don't miss the Government Palace, a mansion of the 1600s belonging to the Marquis de Guadalupe.
