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Zacatecas is a high-altitude colonial city in north-central Mexico, built in a narrow ravine below the rocky Cerro de la Bufa. Silver discovered in the sixteenth century made it one of the richest cities in New Spain, and its pink stone architecture and twisting streets are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1914 it was the scene of a decisive battle of the Mexican Revolution.
The Cathedral Basílica de Zacatecas, with its intricately carved facade, is the city's showpiece, facing the Plaza de Armas and the Palacio de Gobierno. Santo Domingo, the Teatro Calderón and the Fuente de los Faroles are all within a short walk, and the arches of the Acueducto del Cubo cross the southern side of the center. The city has outstanding museums: the Museo Rafael Coronel holds a vast collection of masks in a ruined convent, the Museo de Arte Abstracto Manuel Felguérez is devoted to abstract art, and the Museo Zacatecano covers Huichol art and regional history. A cable car runs from Cerro del Grillo up to La Bufa for views.
Zacatecas suits culture-focused travelers who enjoy walking. The altitude can be tiring at first and nights are cool year-round. Evening strolls are especially lovely when the stone buildings are lit.
WiserMap travel guideZacatecas Mexico Pink Stone Cathedral and La Bufa Cable CarPlan a trip to Zacatecas, Mexico: the pink stone cathedral, La Bufa cable car, El Edén mine, mask and abstract art museums, plus food, stays and tips.Read the guide
The pink-stone cathedral of Zacatecas, completed in the 18th century, with one of the most elaborate Churrigueresque façades in Mexico, carved with saints, angels and plant motifs. The interior is simpler. Visit at sunset, when the stone glows, and again at night when it is lit.
The main square beside the cathedral, flanked by the Palacio de Gobierno with a mural on the history of Zacatecas in its stairwell and by colonial mansions. It is the center of city life and festivals. Step inside the government palace to see the mural, which is free to view.
A Baroque church built by the Jesuits in the 18th century, with gilded altarpieces inside and a raised atrium on a square above the historic center. The Museo Pedro Coronel is next door. Climb the steps to the atrium, then visit the museum as part of the same walk.
Stone arches of a colonial-era aqueduct that once brought water into Zacatecas, now standing beside the Alameda and Avenida Torreón. It is a well-known city landmark and easy to see on a walk. Combine it with the Alameda gardens and the nearby Museo de Arte Abstracto Manuel Felguérez.
An elegant 19th-century theater on Avenida Hidalgo, with a pale stone façade and an ornate interior with balconies, still used for concerts and festivals. It is a key venue during the city's cultural festivals. Check the programme for a performance, or peek into the lobby during the day.
A museum in the ruins of the former convent of San Francisco, displaying a huge collection of traditional Mexican masks gathered by artist Rafael Coronel, along with puppets and pottery. The roofless church and gardens are beautiful. Allow about two hours and visit in the morning.
A museum in a former Jesuit college next to Santo Domingo, with the art collection of painter Pedro Coronel, including works by Picasso, Miró and Dalí as well as art from Africa, Asia and ancient cultures, plus his own paintings. Allow about two hours to see the many rooms.
A museum of abstract art in a former seminary and prison, with large works by Zacatecan artist Manuel Felguérez and other Mexican abstract painters and sculptors. The vast halls suit the big canvases. Allow about an hour and a half, and check opening days before going.
A museum in the historic center with a notable collection of Huichol (Wixárika) art, including embroidered textiles and yarn paintings, plus religious retablos and silverwork. It helps explain the region's indigenous culture. Allow about an hour; it is close to the cathedral.
A cable car crossing above the historic center between Cerro del Grillo and Cerro de la Bufa, with spectacular views over the cathedral and the city's rooftops. The ride is short but memorable. Go on a clear, calm day, as it may close in strong wind, and take photos from the windows.
The rocky hill that overlooks Zacatecas, site of a key 1914 revolutionary battle, with a museum about the Toma de Zacatecas, a chapel, equestrian statues and a lookout over the city. Reach it by the cable car or by road. Go late in the afternoon for sunset views, and bring a jacket.
A former silver mine under the city, worked from the colonial era until the 20th century, where guided tours ride a small train into tunnels and walk past shafts and exhibits on mining life. Its entrance is near the cable car. Bring a light jacket, as it is cool underground.
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