Santa Maria Del Rio is presented as a Pueblo Mágico. The rebozo tradition offers a special way to get to know the town: in 2001, rebozo makers from Santa María del Río received the National Prize for Arts and Sciences in the “Popular Art and Popular Traditions” category. Historic buildings, workshops, and destinations at Cerro del Original each offer a different perspective. You can shape your stay around the subjects that interest you most.

Rebozo Craftsmanship and Places to Visit

The Museo Casa del Rebozo is located at Pascual M. Hernández Segura 88 in the Centro of Santa María del Río, postal code 79560. At the Taller de Rebocería, visitors can watch the entirely handmade production of Rebozos de bolita and colorful Chalinas. If you plan to visit, check the current visiting arrangements in advance.

The Escuela del Rebozo also offers an insight into the production process: in this colonial building with Spanish architecture, visitors can watch the entirely handmade production of silk or Artisela rebozos. Weaving is taught there free of charge upon request. An inquiry is therefore required for instruction; do not count on it being available without prior notice.

Shops around the Palacio Municipal sell rebozos and regional sweets, including Queso de tuna, Muéganos, and Dulce de membrillo. If you have something specific in mind, ask locally about what is available, as individual vendors and stock may change.

Buildings and Local History

Santa María del Río’s attractions include La Torre del Reloj and Plaza Martín Bautista. The Iglesia de la Asunción is one of the town’s main attractions. La Casona is a large, palace-like building with courtyards, spiral staircases, a lookout point on the top floor, and a square tower. Its architecture is probably shaped by French influences.

Puente Central and Calle Real were built in the late 18th century to enable traffic across the Río Santa María. They were originally intended for animal-drawn vehicles. Plaza de Toros “La Unión” has a different historical association: it was established toward the end of the 19th century with the aim of bringing together the Otomí and Guachichil residents of the town.

Trails and Views at Cerro del Original

Cerro del Original has a paved path to the summit and is considered a suitable place for mountain sports. From the Mirador Natural, you can look out over the valley where Santa María del Río lies. The Mirador Natural can be reached by a staircase leading toward the summit. The trail and the view offer two concrete ideas if you would like to add the landscape around the Cerro to your stay.

Water Attractions in the Surrounding Area

Presa del Convento is a dam built during the colonial period. When the river is flowing, it can form cascades; it is a suitable destination for a day trip into the countryside and for a picnic. The visiting season is July to October. Check water flow and access before you travel.

Cascada del Salto is a waterfall about 25 meters high on a stream in a semi-desert area. It lies on the road to Tepozán, in the vicinity of Santa María del Río. Check seasonal conditions and access locally again before visiting.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: El Charco De Piedras, Antiguo Tamuín, Salinas De Hidalgo, Axtla De Terrazas, Ranchito, Río Verde, Herradura, Damián Carmona.

For the main travel overview: San Luis Potosí.