Capulalpan de Mendez is the 33rd Magic Village

Rodolfo Elizondo-Torres, Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism, announced last month that the village of Capulalpan, Oaxaca, is the 33rd village added to the Secretary’s Pueblos Magicos Program, which helps increase tourism to villages that are of particular historic or religious value.

Capulalpan de Méndez is located in the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca. It is well-known for its architectural richness, best represented by the San Mateo Dominican temple, built in the 17th century in baroque style. Other attractions in the town include ecotourism offerings, which include hiking and mountain biking, and its Temazcals, a steam bath and herb treatment.

Founded in 2001, the Pueblos Magicos program coordinates local, state and federal efforts, channeling funds so the towns may diversify and improve their tourism infrastructure. A total of 14 government agencies contribute to the program.

Pueblos Magicos has invested approximately 16.28 million dollars in its member villages during the last six years. Because the Pueblos Magicos program coordinates investment at the state and local level as well, the total amount channeled is approximately  $50.3 million.