Puerta del Tiempo

Historic church that's taken more than its fair share of licks through its 400 year history. Established in 1661 as a hermitage dedicated to the Virgen del Rayo, the church was re-built in 1704. During the Mexican Revolution, it was burned down by Pancho Villa's troops and completely destroyed. Beginning in 1919, it was re-built as you see it today.

Built as a monastery in the 17th century, the building was re-purposed as a theatre in the early 20th century. It occasionally hosts theatrical and other performing arts events.

Imposing 17th century stone church with a very large single bell tower, exterior buttresses, and a stunning interior full of gold, crystal chandeliers, and religious artwork including statues in both interior and exterior niches.

The town square is an open plaza paved with brick with numerous iron park benches lining the walkways, most of which lead to a central kiosk (bandstand). Most trees are young so there's not a lot of shade (which might help explain why there's always an empty bench available).

Ride an elevator 100 meters below the surface to level 2 (out of 25) of the historic mine that began operations in 1629. Walk 250 meters into the level 2 tunnel, which was dug by hand in 1820. The mine produced gold, silver, lead and a variety of minerals. Period equipment is in various places around the site.

The original church was built in 1680, and although the cathedral looks like it might date from that period, it is actually a modern reconstruction built in the 1940s when the old church was damaged in a 1944 flood. The church features enormous twin bell towers that dwarf the main nave. The church features several stunning stained glass windows and a number of iconic statues and paintings, some rescued from the original church, others from the modern era. The church is a center of activity in early December when the festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe takes place.