Jiquilpan
Discover
Jiquilpan, whose original name in Purépecha is “Huanimba”, which means “Place of Indigo” because of the dye flowers that abounded in the region, is a Magic Town with a deep history that dates back to pre-Hispanic times. This place was an important agricultural and commercial center, standing out for its cultural activity. After the Conquest, the Franciscan evangelists arrived, who reorganized the population and founded the Franciscan Temple and Convent, a building that preserves in its interior a Christ, a gift from King Charles V to Fray Jacobo Dacian, a member of the Danish royalty who became a Franciscan friar in the XVI century.
Among its architectural and cultural attractions is the Temple of the Sacred Heart, a neoclassical pink structure that houses an impressive mural behind the altar. Another emblematic place is the Casa Natal del General Lázaro Cárdenas (General Lázaro Cárdenas’ Birthplace), a space that has had various functions over time: forest library, sericulture center and currently a workshop where the famous silk shawls are made. This house is located on top of a small hill that offers a panoramic view of the city and has enameled mosaics that give it a unique attraction.
A cultural jewel in Jiquilpan is the Gabino Ortiz Public Library, located in an old Guadalupan sanctuary from the 19th century. Its interior is decorated with ten murals by the renowned muralist José Clemente Orozco, depicting the social struggle and Mexican identity. The main door is a work of art in itself: a piece of wood covered in bronze with sculptures of 22 figures of Illustrious Men of America, created by sculptor Guillermo Ruiz.
We recommend you to visit
- Gabino Ortiz Public Library: Founded in 1940 in an old sanctuary, it stands out for its murals by José Clemente Orozco and its majestic bronze door.
- Museum of the Life and Work of General Lázaro Cárdenas del Río: Located in the Academic Unit of Regional Studies of the UNAM, this museum offers an in-depth look at the life and legacy of the former Mexican president.
- Cuauhtémoc Forest: With 20 hectares of jacaranda trees, it is the perfect place for horseback riding, hiking and cycling, in a natural environment that turns purple in spring.
- Casita de Piedra: This charming space was General Cardenas’ playground and is now a workshop where silkworms are raised to make handmade shawls.
- Portada a Juárez: Entrance to Juárez Park, with steps surrounded by jacarandas that culminate in a small square with panoramic views of the town.
- Parish of San Francisco de Asís: This eclectic temple houses valuable pieces of sacred art and a Christ that, according to tradition, was a gift from Emperor Charles V to the indigenous people of Jiquilpan.
What you have to live
- Feria de la Expropiación Petrolera ( March 12-18): A cultural, commercial and artisan event that includes bullfights, artistic presentations and more.
- Route of Dolores (Friday before Good Friday): Religious procession that goes through the main streets of the town.
- Holy Week Festival: A religious and cultural event in the Plaza del Zalate y la Aguadora, with activities that include the sale of local handicrafts.
- Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (June): Religious and commercial celebrations in the atrium of the temple.
- Birth Anniversary of Feliciano Béjar Ruiz (July 14): Cultural event in honor of the local artist, held at the Casa Museo “El Porvenir”.
- Pilgrimage of the Lanterns (December 11): Led by the Guadalupana Torch, this procession includes thousands of men carrying reed and China paper lanterns, walking the streets in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
What you have to try
Jiquilpan’s gastronomy is a mixture of traditional flavors and local products. Among the delicacies you can enjoy are:
- Mexican snacks in the main square: Churros, corn, chickpeas, jellies with eggnog, golden potatoes and more, are part of the colorful market in the square.
- Artisanal Mezcal: Made with traditional techniques, it is ideal to accompany any meal.
- Pozole verde: A typical dish prepared with green mole, chicken and tender corn.
- Uchepos: Tender corn tamales that are a traditional delicacy.
- Chorreadas: Sweet rolls with pieces of piloncillo, perfect to accompany coffee or hot chocolate.
Handicrafts
The handicrafts in Jiquilpan are a reflection of the creativity and skill of its inhabitants:
- Dolls made with corn leaves: Colorful and full of details, they are a symbol of the artisan tradition.
- Rebozos: At Casita de Piedra silkworms are raised for the creation of rebozos and other high quality products.
- Jewelry: Made with seeds, natural fibers and fish scales, these pieces are unique and representative of the region.
- Artwork by Juan Arceo Rayas: The local artist is known for his paintings and sculptures of horses that show the strength and beauty of these animals.
Jiquilpan is a place where history, culture and nature intertwine to offer a unique experience. From its imposing temples and murals to its colorful jacarandas and handicrafts, every corner of this Magical Town invites you to discover a living legacy that is passed down from generation to generation.
