Many call Mineral de Pozos, Guanajuato a “ghost town”. But that is because they have not visited it during the Mariachi Festival, which in April dresses up its quiet, cobbled streets. Actually, this Magic Town wakes up from a short break to brighten up its streets with the “Son de la Negra” song, as well as with a good dose of international rhythms: (the Blues Festival in June), or with the beat of the huehuetl or pre-Hispanic drum (the Toltequidad Festival in July).

Surrounded by cacti and arid hills, Mineral de Pozos was founded in 1576 to exploit the rich gold and silver mines nearby. During its most glorious period, there were 17 gold and silver mining haciendas, and up to one thousand men worked in each one every day. “Pozos” became one of the cities where more silver was produced in Mexico and in the world. By the early twentieth century, “Pozos” had become a prosperous city, with about 50,000 inhabitants and a strong trading network. As the veins became depleted, the town slowly faded, until the last mine was closed in 1950. Just about 300 people remained in the town. Thus, almost abandoned and demolished, Mineral de Pozos captivated the big screen as a result of the film “Pedro Páramo”, directed by Carlos Velo and starring John Gavin. The roofless mansions with their old furniture were the natural setting for the spooky novel written by Juan Rulfo. Gradually, “Pozos” began to creep into some films and into the routes of adventurer visitors…

In the 80s, as a result of its architectural heritage, as its buildings date back to the sixteenth century, Mineral de Pozos was declared Historic Heritage of Mexico; a few years ago it was recognized as Magic Town in Guanajuato. Both designations have marked the rebirth of this place, with its first renovated streets, dressed in white and ochre. Spa services, tours of the mines, workshops on pre-Hispanic musical instruments, craft shops, a vibrant cultural activity and the first boutique hotels begin the define Mineral de Pozos’ style: a perfect place to indulge, to become disconnected from everyday life and lose yourself in a clean landscape with the echoes of the mariachi, blues and pre-Hispanic rhythms.

To get to Mineral de Pozos from Guanajuato, take highway 110 to Dolores Hidalgo, reach San Luis de la Paz and take the detour to Jiquilapan. From Mexico City, take the highway to San Luis Potosi, and after having gone through Queretaro, take the detour to San Luis de la Paz and follow the signs to Mineral de Pozos. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes for the evening.

Things To Do 

Mariachi echoes in “Pozos” // Guanajuato

In its beginning, the mariachi was not as festive as it is now. Farmers used to come together at the end of their work day, and, still wearing their work clothes, picked up their guitars… Along with the smoke of the campfires, the nostalgic, bucolic, rebel or resigned melodies of the Mexican farmer rose toward the sky. Then came the era of president Porfirio Diaz and the mariachi put on its full regalia, perked up with the shrill sound of the trumpets and today it has been named Word Heritage by UNESCO.

Mines in "Pozos" // Guanajuato

With more than four centuries of history, Mineral de Pozos has a great architectural heritage for you to visit. Its remains tell the story of the mining boom this place went through, the fortune its inhabitants were able to gather and its gradual abandonment. Guanjuato’s arid landscape camouflages the walls of forbidding haciendas, such as the walls of Santa Brigida, of the Cinco Señores and of the Triangulo, where up to one thousand people used to work.

Small Pleasures in Mineral de Pozos // Guanajuato

Something Guanajuato has specialized in is making the charm of its Magic Towns, like San Miguel de Allende and Dolores Hidalgo, more tangible. Mineral de Pozos is also refining its details and creating proposals that will make your visit a relaxing, rewarding, and exciting experience. You need not worry in regard to activities, because there is an excuse for coming to this town almost every month. Once you are here, its boutique hotels shall be the reason for which you should stay.