Jerez (Spanish: [xeˈɾes ðe ɣaɾˈsia saˈlinas] ) is a town and municipality in the Mexican state of Zacatecas. To distinguish the two, the town is officially called Jerez de García Salinas reformer, in honor of a 19th-century reformer. The town of Jerez governs 128 other communities, which comprise a rural area known for its production of fruit trees and dairy. Jerez was designated a Pueblo Mágico to promote tourism, as it is in close proximity to the state capital of Zacatecas and offers handcrafts, traditional food, and architecture."
The town of Jerez is located fifty-seven kilometers from the state capital of Zacatecas, nestled in a deep valley surrounded by forests and fruit orchards.[1]
Its architecture and layout distinguish it from the state capital. The town's focal point is a central square known as Jardín (garden) Rafel Páez, which historically served as the site of the traditional market. This square is enclosed by an ornate wrought iron fence, and its centerpiece is a Moorish-style kiosk constructed of metal with a sandstone base. On Sundays, it becomes a popular gathering place for men playing dominoes and for bands performing a local music genre called tamborazo, known for its distinctive rhythm.
On the south side of the square stands the Portal Humboldt, featuring two different styles of arches, one in the Romance style and the other in Arabic. To the north is the Portal Inguanzo, which dates back to 1797 and was originally a private residence. Today, the building has been repurposed into a café and ice cream shop.[2][1]
The Palacio Municipal (Municipal Palac) or town government building is housed in a former two-story mansion that was constructed between 1730 and 1745. The building features a Baroque facade made of sandstone. It underwent renovations in the last decades of the 20th century, but its original facade was meticulously preserved. Inside, there is a central courtyard surrounded by arches, and there are two stairwells connecting the floors. The main staircase is located on the east side, while the south staircase features a portrait of Francisco García Salinas.[2]
The Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad (Our Lady of Solitude) dates back to 1805, built on the site of a former hospital for indigenous people. It is said that the architect drew inspiration from the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. The style is Neoclassic, although it incorporates various Baroque elements, notably in the main atrium gate. The interior is characterized by the main altar, which houses the image of the Virgin Mary following the death of Jesus. Additionally, the sanctuary features finely sculpted confession booths and a pulpit. This local icon, known as the 'General' and celebrated annually from January to February, gained prominence during the Mexican Revolution when she was honored by troops.[3]
The Edificio de la Torre (Torre Building) was constructed on the site donated by Pantaleón de la Torre in 1894 to promote education and culture in the municipality. Initially, it served as a school for girls. The architectural style of the building is a blend of Romance and Moorish influences, constructed by stonemason Dámaso Muñetón, who was also responsible for the north tower of the Zacatecas Cathedral. Today, the Edificio de la Torre houses the Jerez Cultural Center and the municipal library. Adjacent to the building is an alley dedicated to local handcrafts, including boots, wide cowboy hats, and embroidered leather belts (piteado).[2][1]
Behind the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is Jardín (garden) Hidalgo, which faces the Hinojosa Theater. The theater, built in Moorish style with arches, windows, and railings grouped in threes and fives, was constructed between 1876 and 1890 through the efforts of local politician José María Hinojosa. The stage is set beneath a sandstone arch, and the seats are finely carved from wood. Throughout most of its history, lighting was provided by carbide lamps, and a large mirror from that era still remains. It is believed that the building served as a barracks during the Mexican Revolution. Today, it is utilized for live performances, but in the past, it served various functions, including being a movie theater, a venue for social events, a library, and a public school. Adjacent to the building is the Community Museum, which features an array of items such as carpentry tools, archaeological pieces, sewing machines, and more from the area's rich history."[1][2]
The Ramón López Velarde House Museum is situated on the street named after the town's most famous poet. This house was the childhood home of López Velarde and retains its original furnishings from the 19th century. It also showcases the poet's personal items, including family photographs and copies of manuscripts from works like 'Suave Patria,' which was completed in 1921 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the Mexican War of Independence. The building was transformed into a museum in 1951, and in 2009, the space underwent renovation, incorporating recordings of López Velarde's verses alongside the original furnishings and many of the poet's personal effects.[1][2]
The Inmaculada Concepción parish is constructed from white sandstone. It was built in the 18th century, featuring a simple single bell tower and a Baroque facade. The arch of the main entrance is crowned by a papal crown and the keys of Saint Peter, with images of the Four Evangelists nearby. The interior is Neoclassical, adorned with gold leaf accents on the altars and columns.[1]
Located away from the town center, several other landmarks can be found. The Casa de Campesino is an 18th-century structure that once served as the home for various organizations dedicated to rural farmers. Today, it is a multi-use building. The Chapel of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrow) was erected at the beginning of the 19th century. The Portal de las Palomas is home to several traditional bars, facing a square known as Plaza Tacuba. The Tizoc Bar is not only a bar but also a store that specializes in selling antiques and handcrafted items. The present town market is a building featuring arches on two sides. This market offers a variety of products, including fruits, vegetables, handcrafted items, and prepared food.[2]
Much of town life remains traditional, with businesses closing either fully or partially on Saturdays.[2][1] Charrería and bullfighting are important to the heritage of the area.[1] Charrería and bullfighting hold significant cultural importance in the area. A major tradition in the town is the Burning of Judas on Holy Saturday, which marks the beginning of the Feria de Primavera (spring festival). On this day, events such as charrería, cockfighting, and the running of the bulls take place. The day's activities are organized by the town's bar owners and attract approximately 70,000 visitors. The Feria de Primavera is a secular fair, and it's the oldest and most traditional of its kind in the state. Its origins date back to 1824 when local authorities aimed to promote the area's products, ranging from produce to yarn, minerals, and plaster.[3] During Carnival, there is a unique tradition called La Jerezaditas, where children run among very young (one to two years old) bulls.[1]
The town of Jerez serves as the local government for 128 other communities, encompassing an area of 1,521 km2 (587 sq mi). The municipality, simply referred to as Jerez, shares borders with the municipalities of Fresnillo, Calera de Víctor Rosales, Susticacán, Zacatecas, Villanueva, and Valparaíso. The largest community within the municipality is the municipal seat, which is home to half of the municipality's population. Other significant communities include Ermita de Guadalupe, Ermita de Los Correa, El Cargadero, and Santa Rita. These are predominantly rural, agricultural towns. Notably, El Cargadero is known for its population of expatriates from the United States.[4]
The Hacienda de Ciénega belonged to the Gordoa family, one of the most influential families in Zacatecas in the 19th century. The hacienda can only be viewed from the outside. The main house and chapel feature thick walls and large, heavy wooden doors. The chapel is dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows. The complex encompasses a spacious plaza with trees.[1]
