Capital city of the state by the same name, colonial Aguascalientes dates its roots to the early days of Spanish influence and is developing into a major industrial city in Mexico. Due to its location in the middle of the country, Aguascalientes flourished as silver was mined in Zacatecas and surrounding areas. Due to its proximity to Guadalajara and the industrial area of Leon, Guanajuato, Aguascalientes became an important railroad center.
La Feria de San Marcos, a weeklong festival of music, fire works and bull-fighting takes place in late April and early May and is famous throughout Mexico. Make shift gambling halls are set up in many locations with animated action occurring in the "Palenques" where live rooster cocks fight until one drops dead.
Aguascalientes' Colonial roots are evidenced in the Plaza de San Marcos, the Cathedral and other period buildings throughout the city. World famous painters such as Saturnino Herran and others were born in Aguascalientes. Their work is housed in local museums.
