Zacatecas takes its name from the Aztec name given to the grass abundant in the region. History of the region’s settlement prior to the Conquistadors is uncertain and accounts vary. The general consensus is the Zacatecos were part of the semi-nomadic indigenous tribes of the Chichimecan peoples who inhabited the region. Evidence suggests the Chichimecan tribes had established advanced urban centers by the end of the first century and were mining silver before the Spanish arrived.
The Spanish colonized Zacatecas by the mid 16th century. Silver was discovered soon after and the Zacatecas mining settlement was founded. The deluge of foreign profit seekers that followed led to the Chichimeca War that was ultimately diffused by an aggressive peace initiative of the Catholic mission.
Mining ushered in an era of economic prosperity for the better part of 2 centuries but plummeting silver prices in the late 18th century brought with it civil unrest. In 1810 Father Miguel Hidalgo and his forces rebelled and marched through Zacatecas. Mexico wouldn’t gain its independence until 1821.
Mexico saw years of political strife and war between centralists and federalists following its independence from Spain. In 1914 Zacatecas gained international recognition when Pancho Villa and his Dorados defeated the Spanish in the bloodiest battle of the Revolution, it would later be called “La Toma de Zacatecas” or the Taking of Zacatecas.
Today the region is more tranquil than in years past. Zacatecas boasts a vibrant tourism economy and has been a favorite destination for years among Mexican and European tourists. Mines in the cities of Zacatecas and Fresnillo account for the bulk of Mexico’s silver mining export which is approximately 17% of the world’s production. If you visit the city be prepared to be swept up in the festive culture because there seems to be no shortage of fiestas in Zacatecas.
Life on the road has allowed me to distance myself from those seemingly meaningless tasks that preoccupy my thoughts when I’m in the states, I’m settling into a groove. An extended stay in Zacatecas will allow time for much needed Spanish classes and taking in the colorful culture of the city.
Within minutes of checking into the Hostal Villa Colonial I knew I was going to enjoy my stay. Ernesto and his staff have created an environment that goes above and beyond housing wayward travelers, one that needs to be experienced to understand.
The friends I made in Zacatecas punctuated my visit and made leaving difficult. We were there for different reasons yet the same fabric connected us. Those rooftop evenings enjoying multilingual conversation and 9 peso cerveza were a highlight. I hope to stay in touch with my new amigos but leaving is part of the experience.
