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Sombrerete is a colonial mining town in northwestern Zacatecas, on the road toward Durango. Silver brought it wealth in the colonial era, and that money went into an unusual number of churches and chapels for a town of its size. It is now one of Mexico's Pueblos Mágicos, with a quiet, provincial atmosphere and wide high-desert skies.
A walk through town takes in a series of religious buildings. The Ex-convento de San Mateo, the Templo de Santo Domingo and the Templo de San Juan Bautista are among the most notable, along with smaller sanctuaries such as the Capilla de la Candelaria, the Templo de la Soledad and the Capilla de la Santa Veracruz. The Museo de la ciudad offers background on the mining past, and the hill of Cerro Sombreretillo, shaped somewhat like a hat, rises above the rooftops.
The main nearby attraction is Sierra de Órganos National Park, where towering rock formations resemble organ pipes. Its eerie scenery has appeared in numerous films, especially westerns, and it is popular with hikers, climbers and photographers. Sombrerete suits travelers on a northern road trip who appreciate history and open landscapes. The dry season is best for exploring, though winter nights can be cold.
WiserMap travel guideSombrerete Mexico Silver Town Churches and Sierra de ÓrganosDiscover Sombrerete in Zacatecas, a UNESCO-listed silver town of Baroque churches, brujitas street food and the rock towers of Sierra de Órganos.Read the guide
A former Franciscan convent complex in Sombrerete, one of the oldest religious foundations in northern Mexico, with a church, cloister and chapels built over the colonial period. It is the heart of the town's heritage. Visit in the morning, when the light on the stonework is best, and respect services.
A colonial church in Sombrerete with a carved stone façade and a richly decorated interior, built during the town's silver-mining boom. It is one of the main stops on a walk through the center. Visit outside Mass times and take a moment to look at the altarpieces.
A colonial church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, with a stone façade and tower that stand out on the streets of Sombrerete. It reflects the wealth once generated by the town's mines. Combine it with a walk through the surrounding streets, lined with old houses and balconies.
A small colonial chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Candlemas, with a simple façade and a quiet interior, one of several historic chapels in the town. Its feast in early February brings processions. It is an easy stop on a walking tour; dress respectfully when entering.
A colonial church in Sombrerete dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude, with a stone façade facing a small plaza. It is part of the rich group of churches that helped the town earn its Pueblo Mágico status. Visit as part of a church walk, and look for local snack stalls in the plaza.
A historic chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross, one of the oldest religious buildings in Sombrerete, with thick stone walls and a modest façade. It is a peaceful place away from the main square. Visit during the day, and ask locals about its history and feast days.
The town museum, with exhibits on Sombrerete's history from its founding as a silver-mining town in the 16th century, including mining tools, documents, religious art and photographs. It gives context for the churches you will see. Allow about 45 minutes and check opening hours.
The hat-shaped hill that gave Sombrerete its name, rising above the town. A path climbs to the top, where there are views over the town's domes and the surrounding plains and mountains. Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, and bring water and good shoes.
A protected area near Sombrerete with towering rock formations that resemble organ pipes, set in high desert with oaks and cacti, and used as a location for many western films. Trails and dirt roads link the main formations, and cabins and camping are available. Bring water and arrive early.
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Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Vaquita marina, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
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Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Tomás Esparza, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
