SALTILLO

 

Saltillo, the state capital of Coahuila, is located in Mexico?s northern region, 89 km (55 mi) southwest of Monterrey. The average year-round temperature is 17.5º C (63º F) and the climate is predominantly arid and semi-cold, with rainfall in the summer.

 

Known as the Athens of the North due to its great cultural tradition, this city reflects its mixed heritage in festivities such as the Santo Cristo de la Capilla. It?s also famous for its saltillos, cotton and wool serapes of various designs and bright colors, which have become one of the nation?s most representative articles of clothing.

 

Also of interest is Saltillo?s eclectic architecture, which integrates neoclassical and baroque styles, as seen in structures such as the Catedral de Santiago (Santiago Cathedral) and the Ateneo Fuente, a place with a strong academic tradition and two of the city?s most important cultural attractions: the Museo de Historia Natural (Natural History Museum) and the Pinacoteca Artemio de Valle Arizpe. In the latter you can learn about the important contributions of local artists and the region?s historical development and biological evolution.

 

In the surrounding areas you can visit Rincon Colorado, one of the main sites where dinosaur fossils have been discovered. There?s also the beautiful natural sights of Sierra de Arteaga, which has been developed as an important regional tourist and sporting destination. In addition, you can visit the Bosques de Monterreal Park, a unique place where you can go skiing on slopes with manmade snow throughout the year. What?s more, the park offers canyons and mountains areas that are ideal for ecotourism outings. You?ll find the gorgeous scenery of the Coahuila sierras absolutely fascinating.