Zacatecas
Historical Monuments Zone
Abstract
This city preserves architectural features typical of the Bajío region and is closely linked to significant historical events that took place during the War of Independence, the Second French Intervention, and the Mexican Revolution.
The city originated along a ravine carved by the flow of the Arroyo de la Plata stream, at the foothills of Cerro de la Bufa. Its name comes from the Nahuatl words zacatl (grass or hay) and tlan (place).
Spanish presence in Zacatecas began on September 8, 1546, when an expedition from Guadalajara, Nueva Galicia, led by Juan de Tolosa, discovered rich silver deposits. This discovery triggered the first wave of migration, which soon faced threats from a climate of violence and insecurity. In 1550, the Chichimeca War broke out—a long, continuous, and devastating frontier conflict.
By the mid-16th century, settlements were established with populations coming from central Mexico. King Philip II granted the city its official status on October 17, 1585; in 1588, it was awarded the title “very noble and loyal” and received a coat of arms.
Its economic influence spurred the development of roads connecting Zacatecas to Mexico City, where silver was minted. This route linked to the port of Veracruz and, driven by demand from the mines and surrounding towns, gave rise to a communication network crossing the heart of New Spain known as the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro.
The city also hosted several religious orders: the Franciscans established a convent in 1567, the Augustinians in 1576, the Dominicans in 1604, the Juaninos in 1610, the Mercedarians in 1702, and the Jesuits founded their college in 1616.
During the 18th century, mine owners built a number of monumental structures that have become iconic landmarks, including the parish church (today the Cathedral Basilica), the Sanctuary of La Bufa, and the historic churches of San Francisco and San Agustín.
The Historic Monuments Zone comprises 169 blocks containing 827 historically valuable buildings, constructed between the 16th and 19th centuries.
Former Bank of Zacatecas
An 18th-century building that, during the second half of the 19th century, belonged to Juan de Dios Lodoza. Upon his death in 1892, the property was inherited by the Gordoa family, who sold it a year later to the García brothers—owners of the adjacent building.
Former Bank of Zacatecas
An 18th-century building that, during the second half of the 19th century, belonged to Juan de Dios Lodoza. Upon his death in 1892, the property was inherited by the Gordoa family, who sold it a year later to the García brothers—owners of the adjacent building. The García brothers incorporated the property into the Bank of Zacatecas.
Calderón Theater
A 19th-century building whose construction began in 1832 to meet the city's growing need for a cultural venue. It was built on the site of a former jail and inaugurated the following year under the name El Coliseo.
Calderón Theater
A 19th-century building whose construction began in 1832 to meet the city's growing need for a cultural venue. It was built on the site of a former jail and inaugurated the following year under the name El Coliseo. In 1850, it was renamed in honor of Fernando Calderón y Beltrán, a renowned writer and politician who contributed significantly to Mexican poetry and literature.
On October 3, 1889, a fire broke out on stage after one of the lighting lamps fell, reducing the entire building to ashes. Debris removal began on December 30 of the same year, and on May 1, 1891, Governor Jesús Aréchiga laid the cornerstone of the current structure. The new theater was designed by architect George A. King and inaugurated on May 16, 1897. The building reflects the style of the Porfirian peace era, incorporating elements of the Italian Renaissance school.
González Ortega Market
This 18th-century building was constructed on the site of Zacatecas’ former Plaza Mayor, a space traditionally used for open-air markets.
González Ortega Market
This 18th-century building was constructed on the site of Zacatecas’ former Plaza Mayor, a space traditionally used for open-air markets. In 1861, four arcaded quarry-stone galleries were built to protect vendors from the elements. The plans were drawn by engineer Juan Carriston and approved by the Municipal Assembly. This first structure remained until 1886, when Governor Marcelino Morfín Chávez and the Assembly agreed to build a new market on the same site.
The cornerstone was laid on September 15, 1886, and the new market was inaugurated by Governor Jesús Aréchiga on September 16, 1889. The building had three floors: warehouses occupied the ground floor; commercial stalls and a decorative fountain, which also provided water to the public, were located on the first floor; and the upper level housed storerooms and offices. After a fire destroyed the nearby Calderón Theater, this third level also served as a theater and cultural venue.
In 1901, improper use of the storage spaces led to a fire that left the building in ruins. After a fundraising campaign, reconstruction was completed on December 22, 1902, and the market reopened on February 5, 1903, now with only two levels.
In September 1921, it was renamed in honor of González Ortega, a military figure from Zacatecas known for his role in the Reform War. Between 1980 and 1986, the building was restored. Today, it serves as a marketplace for handicrafts and local goods and hosts a variety of cultural and artistic events.
Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas
This 18th-century religious building is one of the most iconic landmarks of Zacatecas. Around 1568, the first adobe church was erected on this site.
Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas
This 18th-century religious building is one of the most iconic landmarks of Zacatecas. Around 1568, the first adobe church was erected on this site. In 1605, the town council approved the reconstruction of the main church (Iglesia Mayor), and the cornerstone was laid on July 28, 1612, under the direction of Antonio de Figueroa and the ecclesiastical judge and vicar of Zacatecas, Cristóbal de Covarrubias.
In the early 18th century, land was donated for the construction of a chapel dedicated to the Holy Christ of the Parish. Due to the deteriorated state of the church, the decision was made to replace it entirely.
The current, third building was dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin on August 15, 1752. Its main façade was completed in 1775, and the south bell tower was consecrated on January 5, 1782—the same year the large bell, named María Buenaventura del Sacramento, was cast. The main altar, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was built in 1761. In 1844, the original dome was replaced with a neoclassical design.
On June 5, 1864, the Diocese of Zacatecas was established, and the parish church was elevated to cathedral status. This transition led to the construction of a choir for the Canons, the completion of additional altars, and the overall decoration of the interior.
The north tower was finished in 1904, and a public clock was later added to the façade. In June 2010, a new altarpiece was inaugurated—carved in wood, covered in gold leaf, and adorned with bronze statues of saints and a central depiction of the Assumption of the Virgin.
Casa Municipal de Cultura – Genaro Codina Market
This 19th-century building has served a wide variety of purposes over the years. It was originally used as a government tobacco storehouse, which earned it the nickname La Fábrica (“The Factory”).
Casa Municipal de Cultura – Genaro Codina Market
This 19th-century building has served a wide variety of purposes over the years. It was originally used as a government tobacco storehouse, which earned it the nickname La Fábrica (“The Factory”). For nine years, it functioned as a girls’ school, and later became a Normal School for teacher training.
In 1906, the building was subdivided to house both a public market and a school. By 1967, it was repurposed to accommodate municipal offices, and in 1987 it became home to the Mauricio Magdaleno Public Library, which remained in operation until 2004. Today, it serves as the Casa Municipal de Cultura de Zacatecas, a cultural center offering artistic and educational programs to the public.
Rectoría of the Autonomous University of Zacatecas – Science Museum
An 18th-century building, this site is historically known to have housed the city’s butcher shop.
Mexicapan Chapel or Chapel of Our Lady of Candelaria
This 16th-century building, located beside the old Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, was built by Franciscan friars in 1569 as a religious center for the Mexica neighborhood, originally dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption.
Mexicapan Chapel or Chapel of Our Lady of Candelaria
This 16th-century building, located beside the old Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, was built by Franciscan friars in 1569 as a religious center for the Mexica neighborhood, originally dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption. The chapel partially collapsed in 1939 and underwent some restoration in 1979. It was fully restored in 1994, when it was rededicated to Our Lady of Candelaria.
Ramón López Velarde Zacatecan Institute of Culture
This 19th-century building became part of the Ramón López Velarde Zacatecan Institute of Culture in 1991. Starting in 2006, it also began housing the State Historical Archive.
Zacatecas Vaulted Water System
This hydraulic system originated in the 16th century, built around a moderately flowing stream that ran through much of the city of Zacatecas.
Zacatecas Vaulted Water System
This hydraulic system originated in the 16th century, built around a moderately flowing stream that ran through much of the city of Zacatecas. Most of the bridges were constructed during the 18th century, and throughout the 19th century, the stream and its tributaries were gradually covered with vaulted structures.
Former Temple of San Agustín
This 17th-century building was sponsored by local mine owner Agustín de Zavala. Modifications were completed in 1782, and by the late 18th century, the convent's cloisters and monumental staircase had been built.
The Augustinian friars lived in the convent until 1859, when they left due to the War of Reform. In 1860, the property was expropriated and acquired by Zacatecas governor Jesús González Ortega, who converted it into a hotel. It was later sold to the Presbyterian Evangelical Society, who repurposed the nave of the church as a residence. The main façade, originally adorned with pink stone Baroque decoration, was dismantled, and the bell tower was removed.
In 1904, the Bishopric of Zacatecas acquired the convent, but the temple had been nationalized and remained in Protestant hands. It wasn’t until 1946 that the government of Zacatecas bought the church. In 1973, a drawing of the original façade and tower was discovered in Paris, sparking interest in its reconstruction; however, the project remains on hold.
On April 24, 1953, the building was declared a National Monument. In 1966, it was transferred to Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), which repurposed the space for art exhibitions.
Former Convent of San Agustín
This 17th-century building was constructed by Augustinian friars. The temple was officially dedicated on June 2, 1782. It stands as a remarkable example of Mexican Baroque architecture, notable for its eight domes and a layout centered around a main courtyard.
Old El Cubo Aqueduct
The city of Zacatecas has long faced water scarcity. During colonial times, residents relied on public fountains scattered throughout the city.
Old El Cubo Aqueduct
The city of Zacatecas has long faced water scarcity. During colonial times, residents relied on public fountains scattered throughout the city. In the late 18th century, efforts were made to resolve this issue with the construction of an aqueduct that carried water from a spring near the El Cubo mine—also known as La Encantada—to the Condesa Fountain, located in what was then Villarreal Square (now Independence Garden). The water flowed through conduits that ran across the rooftops of city homes.
By 1845, the aqueduct was in poor condition. A report commissioned by the local Police Property Board determined the damage was not severe and recommended maintenance work.
The aqueduct ceased operations in 1929 with the introduction of new water supply systems. Most of its arches were destroyed, and only 36 remain today.
Francisco Goitia Museum
This 20th-century building was constructed in the 1940s at the request of the state governor, who commissioned architect Máximo Pedraja to design an official residence for the governors. The building was inaugurated in 1948.
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Francisco Goitia Museum
This 20th-century building was constructed in the 1940s at the request of the state governor, who commissioned architect Máximo Pedraja to design an official residence for the governors. The building was inaugurated in 1948. Starting in 1962, it housed distinguished visitors and some areas were repurposed as public offices, earning it the name Casa del Pueblo (House of the People).
In 1978, the Government of Zacatecas and the National Institute of Fine Arts (INBA) transformed the building into a museum dedicated to showcasing Zacatecan art, naming it after the painter Francisco Goitia.
The museum exhibits works by prominent Zacatecan artists such as José Kuri Breña, Rafael Coronel, Manuel Felguérez, Pedro Coronel, and Francisco Goitia.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
The houses located in front of the Jesuit temple and college had fallen into ruin. Doña Isabel Rosa Catarina Ceballos Villegas, Countess of San Mateo, exchanged one of her own properties in order to donate the land to the Jesuits.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
The houses located in front of the Jesuit temple and college had fallen into ruin. Doña Isabel Rosa Catarina Ceballos Villegas, Countess of San Mateo, exchanged one of her own properties in order to donate the land to the Jesuits. After the Jesuits were expelled from New Spain in 1767, the Dominicans took over the complex, and the area became a public square named Plaza de Santo Domingo in reference to their presence.
Former Franciscan Convent Complex of San Francisco – Rafael Coronel Museum
This 16th-century Franciscan complex was one of the earliest religious centers established to evangelize the native populations and support missions to the northern territories of New Spain.
Former Franciscan Convent Complex of San Francisco – Rafael Coronel Museum
This 16th-century Franciscan complex was one of the earliest religious centers established to evangelize the native populations and support missions to the northern territories of New Spain. The Franciscans arrived in the region under commission from Viceroy Luis de Velasco to carry out evangelization in the areas of Zacatecas and Durango. Their first convent was located where the Bishop’s Palace of Zacatecas now stands.
In 1567, the new complex was built and dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. At the time, the Franciscan community consisted of fewer than forty friars. On December 7, 1648, the temple was devastated by a fire that left it in ruins and destroyed numerous altars and religious ornaments. Reconstruction began on March 10 of the following year, led by Fray Domingo de Arteaga. In the second half of the 18th century, Father Antonio de Mendigutia rebuilt the church, expanded the Chapel of Saint Anthony with an additional section, and added a dressing room for the image.
In 1856, the Law of Nationalization of Ecclesiastical Properties brought an end to the Franciscan mission. The temple remained in use until 1924, when part of the vaults in the nave collapsed.
In 1987, historian Federico Sescosse led a restoration effort that recovered the original dome, presbytery vault, and sacristy. Following its restoration, the complex was transformed into a museum, which opened on July 5, 1990. In 2010, the museum was expanded in both facilities and collection. Today, it houses over 5,000 traditional Mexican masks.
Alameda Trinidad García de la Cadena
This alameda has long been regarded as a majestic site, a promoter of family values and civic unity. Its origins date back to 1781, when the construction of a promenade in Zacatecas began, transforming it into a popular Sunday gathering spot.
Alameda Trinidad García de la Cadena
This alameda has long been regarded as a majestic site, a promoter of family values and civic unity. Its origins date back to 1781, when the construction of a promenade in Zacatecas began, transforming it into a popular Sunday gathering spot. In 1789, a group of merchants and miners planted poplars, willows, and mulberry trees, and installed a protective fence around the area.
In 1831, it was officially designated as an alameda, and its territory was expanded. A fountain was built in 1835. Following the death of Francisco García Salinas in 1841, a mausoleum was erected to house his remains. On the northwest side of the alameda, a water reservoir was constructed, fed by the Socavón de la Esperanza from the El Edén mine. In 1902, the original fountains and kiosk were replaced.
The space also inspired Genaro Codina, who composed the "Marcha Aréchiga," also known as the "Marcha de Zacatecas," regarded as Mexico’s second national anthem.
A complete renovation took place in 1940 under the direction of architect Roberto Álvarez Espinosa.
Enrique Estrada Park
A 19th-century green space, by 1894 it covered approximately 77,000 square meters. It was officially developed into a park during the 1950s, with the project led by master builder Juan José Martínez Calvillo.
