Things to do in Aguascalientes State
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Museo Nacional de la Muerte
This is one ‘near death’ experience not to be missed. The Museo Nacional de la Muerte exhibits all things relating to Mexico’s favorite subject – death – from the skeleton La Catrina to historic artifacts. Over 1200 artifacts are on display. They span several centuries, from Mesoamerican to contemporary artistic interpretations, across seven rooms. In the bowels of a recently discovered cistern, a miniature crystal skull is on display. It’s believed to be from Aztec times and there are only two in the world. This wonderful place is far from macabre but a colorful, humorous and insightful encounter.
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Museo José Guadalupe Posada
The fascinating Museo José Guadalupe Posada is on the north side of Jardín El Encino. Aguascalientes native Posada (1852−1913) was in many ways the founder of modern Mexican art. His engravings and satirical cartoons broadened the audience for art in Mexico, highlighted social problems and were a catalyst in the later mural phase. Posada’s hallmark is the calavera (skull or skeleton) and many of his calavera engravings have been widely reproduced. There’s also a permanent exhibition of work by Posada’s predecessor Manuel Manilla (1830−90).
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Museo de Aguascalientes
The Museo de Aguascalientes shouldn't be missed, even if only for the handsome neoclassical building. It houses a permanent collection of work by the brilliant Mexican artist Saturnino Herrán (1887−1918) of Aguascalientes (there are also temporary exhibitions). His works are some of the first to honestly depict the Mexican people. The sensual sculpture Malgretout on the patio is a fiberglass copy of the marble original by Jesús Contreras.
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Palacio de Gobierno
On the plaza's south side, the red-and-pink stone Palacio de Gobierno is Aguascalientes' most noteworthy colonial building. Once the mansion of colonial baron Marqués de Guadalupe, it dates from 1665 and has a striking courtyard with a mural of the 1914 convention by the Chilean artist Osvaldo Barra. Barra, whose mentor was Diego Rivera, also painted the mural on the south wall, a compendium of the economic and historic forces that forged Aguascalientes.
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Cathedral
The well-restored 18th-century baroque Cathedral, on the plaza's west side, is more magnificent inside than out. Over the altar at the east end of the south aisle is a painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe by Miguel Cabrera. There are more works by Cabrera, colonial Mexico's finest artist, in the cathedral's pinacoteca (picture gallery); ask a priest to let you in.
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Museo Regional de Historia
This history museum was designed by Refugio Reyes as a family home and features a small chapel. Its several rooms exhibit items that run all the way from the big bang to the Revolution. Anyone interested in Mexican history will appreciate these displays. For others, the temporary exhibitions can be fascinating; pass by to check what’s on.
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La Saturnina
Set in an 18th-century former mansion, this eatery is well known among local diners for its romantic ambience and tasty menu. The name is in honor of the women Saturnino Herrán so beautifully painted; but tales of tragic love and the tormented ghost of the wealthy hacienda-owner’s daughter won’t ruin your appetite.
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Baños Termales de Ojocaliente
The only thermal baths near the center are the charming, if slightly shabby Baños Termales de Ojocaliente. The restored 1808 architecture truly turns back the clock; the larger baths are more appealing. Take bus 23 (or any bus marked ‘Penal’) from Mateos.
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Restaurant Mitla
This large, pleasant and popular restaurant is caught in a time warp: 1938, the year it started. There are white-shirted waiters and excellent service, plus a grand menu with a choice of Mexican specialties, set breakfasts (M$70) and three-course set lunches (M$75).
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Templo del Encino
The Templo del Encino, beside the Posada museum, contains a black statue of Jesus that some believe is growing. When it reaches an adjacent column, a worldwide calamity is anticipated. The huge Way of the Cross murals are also noteworthy.
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Café del Codo
The most cosmopolitan café in town, with green brollies and a pretty location under trees. It serves Italian sodas, smoothies plus a range of chais and good baguettes. Has both computers and laptop wi-fi connection.
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Rincón Maya
Until lunchtime, this place has service at La Mestiza Yucateca (open 8am till 2pm), its alter ego next door. Both serve delectable Yucatecan specialties. Don’t miss the sopa de lima (lime soup; M$45).
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Templo de San Antonio
A crazy quilt of architectural styles built around 1900 by self-taught architect Refugio Reyes. San Antonio's interior is highly ornate, with huge round paintings and intricate decoration highlighted in gold.
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Museo de Arte Contemporáneo
The small Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, a modern museum displaying the work of Enrique Guzmán (1952−86) as well as temporary exhibitions, is well worth visiting.
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Centro de la Gráfica El Obraje
The small Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, a modern museum displaying the work of Enrique Guzmán (1952−86) as well as temporary exhibitions, is well worth visiting
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Sanborns
A glorious, old-fashioned sala (room) with great meals (especially breakfast and afternoon teas) and views over the plaza. Located within the department store itself.
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El Tranvía
El Tranvía, an imitation trolley car, offers three different routes through the city (hourly Tuesday to Sunday, between 10am and 7pm).
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Ex-Plaza de Toros San Marcos
Near the northeast corner of Jardín de San Marcos the Ex-Plaza de Toros San Marcos, the old bullring, is now a school for aspiring matadors.
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Casa de la Cultura
In a fine 17th-century building, the Casa de la Cultura hosts art exhibitions, concerts, theater and dance events.
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Los Antojos de Carranza
A colorful and lively place with good-value Mexican cuisine. Sunday lunch is popular; half serves for children.
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Teatro de Aguascalientes
The Teatro de Aguascalientes, south of the center, stages a variety of cultural events.
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Teatro Morelos
The Teatro Morelos, south of the center, stages a variety of cultural events.
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Centro Comercial Galerías
Centro Comercial Galerías is a shopping mall with several bars and discos.
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Casa Terán
Good bookstore in lovely setting; Mexican cultural center and patio café also here.
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