History
Mining heyday
Founded around 1778, Real de Catorce reached its greatest splendor in the late 18th century thanks to silver. That wealth left mansions, temples and works you now explore on foot.
The old silver-mining town you enter through a 2.3 km tunnel. Cobblestone streets, golden ruins, horseback desert rides and Wirikuta.
The destination
To get here you must cross the Ogarrio Tunnel: 2.3 kilometers bored through solid rock, emerging right inside the town. On the other side wait the Main Square, the Parish of the Immaculate Conception, the former Mint and the ruins of the Bullring and the frontons.
Founded around 1778, Real de Catorce reached its greatest splendor in the late 18th century thanks to silver. That wealth left mansions, temples and works you now explore on foot.
The classic adventure is exploring the surroundings on horseback or in the famous Willys rented in town, crossing semi-desert plains and elevations nearing 10,000 feet (3,000 m).
From Estación Catorce begins the territory of Wirikuta, guarded by the Wixárika (Huichol) people and their ancestral tradition linked to peyote. Visit with respect: special rules apply here.
Start here
Three straight-to-the-point guides to organize the trip: what to see with time to spare, how to reach the tunnel, and the dates when the town is worth double.
From the Church of the Immaculate Conception to the Cockfight Arena, plus the mountain villages: Potrero, La Luz, Los Catorce and San Antonio de Coronados.
Access runs through Matehuala and Cedral, passing Estación Catorce before crossing Ogarrio.
High-altitude climate: mild days and cold nights. October brings the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Directory with traveler ratings, addresses and direct contact, from the historic center to Estación Catorce.
Local operators with ratings and phone numbers, and the experiences worth booking.