San José de Gracia and its renowned Sanctuary of the Broken Christ offer a captivating cultural experience for visitors. This 5.5-hour tour immerses travelers in the town’s colonial charm and vibrant heritage, from a scenic boat ride to the iconic 28-meter Cristo Roto statue to a hands-on workshop crafting traditional sweets. Along the way, guests will explore the UNESCO-listed Museum of the Insurgency, uncovering Mexico’s rich history. With breathtaking views and immersive activities, this tour promises to transport participants to the heart of the region’s cultural treasures. Discover what makes this destination a must-visit on any Mexico itinerary.
Key Points
- The tour offers a visit to the Magical Town of San José de Gracia, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history.
- Participants can enjoy a boat ride to the Sanctuary of the Monumental Cristo Roto, a 28-meter statue, and learn about the region’s wine production.
- The tour includes a hands-on "Create your own typical sweet" workshop at an artisanal gallery, allowing visitors to experience the local culinary heritage.
- Visitors can admire panoramic views of the only canyon in the Aguascalientes valley from a scenic viewpoint.
- The tour also includes a visit to the UNESCO Cultural Heritage site Museum of the Insurgency, providing insight into Mexico’s fight for independence.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour, titled "San José de Gracia and Sanctuary of the Broken Christ," is priced from $102.00 per person and lasts for 5.5 hours.
It’s available in Spanish and English, with hotel pickup in Aguascalientes included.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which offers a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Booking without upfront payment is also an option.
The tour covers highlights like the Magical Town of San José de Gracia, a boat ride to the Sanctuary of the Monumental Cristo Roto, a sweet-making workshop, and a winery tour with wine tasting.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aguascalientes.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors begin the tour with a visit to the Magical Town of San José de Gracia.
They’ll board a boat to the Sanctuary of the Monumental Cristo Roto, a 28-meter-high statue.
Next, they’ll participate in a "Create your own typical sweet" workshop at an artisanal gallery.
The tour also includes:
- Panoramic views from a viewpoint overlooking the only canyon in the Aguascalientes valley
- A visit to the UNESCO Cultural Heritage site Museum of the Insurgency, where Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla was stripped of command
- A tour of vineyards, a lesson on wine production, and a tasting of artisanal wine at the Ex Hacienda de Letras.
San José De Gracia
San José de Gracia is a Magical Town located in the heart of the Aguascalientes valley. It is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. Visitors can explore the town’s charming streets, admire the beautiful churches, and explore the local traditions. The town offers a glimpse into Mexico’s past, with its well-preserved buildings and lively plazas. Tourists can also enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside and the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam. Here’s a table showcasing some of the key attractions in San José de Gracia:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Plaza de Armas | Historic town square |
| Parroquia de San José | Neoclassical church |
| Museo de la Insurgencia | Museum highlighting Mexico’s independence movement |
| Mercado Municipal | Local market selling crafts and produce |
| Mirador | Viewpoint overlooking the town |
Plutarco Elías Calles Dam
One of the main attractions on the San José de Gracia tour is the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam. This impressive structure houses the Sanctuary of the Monumental Cristo Roto, a 28-meter-high statue of a broken Christ.
Visitors can board a boat to reach the sanctuary and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The dam also offers several other highlights:
- Panoramic views of the only canyon in the Aguascalientes valley
- Opportunity to learn about the region’s wine production at a nearby ex-hacienda
- Chance to participate in a workshop to create traditional Mexican sweets
The dam and its attractions provide a unique and immersive cultural experience for tour participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyArtisanal Gallery
The artisanal gallery on the San José de Gracia tour offers visitors a chance to unleash their creativity in a "Create your own typical sweet" workshop.
Under the guidance of skilled artisans, participants learn about the traditional techniques and ingredients used to make these local confections.
They’ll have the opportunity to mix, shape, and decorate their personalized treats, which they can then take home as a unique souvenir.
This hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich culinary heritage and allows travelers to enjoy the vibrant artisanal culture of the area.
Viewpoint
After the hands-on workshop at the artisanal gallery, the tour takes visitors to a viewpoint overlooking the only canyon in the Aguascalientes valley.
The panoramic views from this overlook provide a breathtaking perspective of the region’s natural beauty.
Visitors can:
- Admire the rugged, steep walls of the canyon that stretch out before them
- Spot the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam in the distance, where the Sanctuary of the Monumental Christ Broken is located
- Take in the picturesque landscape, with its rolling hills and lush vegetation, framed by the towering canyon walls
At the viewpoint, guests are treated to a refreshing drink as they soak in the stunning vistas.
Museum of the Insurgency
Visitors next explore the Museum of the Insurgency, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site where Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla was stripped of command on January 24, 1811.
This museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the turbulent history of Mexico’s fight for independence. Guests will learn about the key figures and events that shaped this pivotal moment in the nation’s past.
The museum’s exhibits feature artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that bring the story of the Insurgency to life.
This stop offers a deeper understanding of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and the struggles that paved the way for its independence.
Ex Hacienda De Letras
Touring the vineyards and wine cellar of the Ex Hacienda de Letras provides visitors with a deeper appreciation for the artisanal wine production in the region.
Guests can explore the property’s rich history, learn about the winemaking process, and sample the estate’s signature vintages.
The experience includes:
- A guided tour of the vineyards, where guests can learn about the cultivation and harvesting of grapes
- A visit to the wine cellar, where they can witness the aging and bottling of the wines
- A tasting of the Ex Hacienda de Letras’ award-winning wines, accompanied by a complimentary crystal wine glass as a keepsake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the tour is comfortable clothing. High-heeled shoes are not allowed. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as the weather may be cooler at certain locations during the tour.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Wine Tasting?
The tour does not mention any specific dietary restrictions for the wine tasting. However, participants should inform the tour provider of any allergies or dietary needs in advance to ensure their experience is accommodated.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
The tour provider’s policy does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. All meals, snacks, and beverages are provided as part of the tour package. Participants should refrain from bringing outside food or drinks.
Is There a Group Size Limit for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a group size limit. However, it’s likely that the group size is kept small to provide a more personalized experience for participants. Guests should check with the tour provider for details on group size.
Are There Any Physical Activity Requirements During the Tour?
The tour requires some moderate physical activity, such as walking and climbing stairs. Participants must be able to board a boat and participate in a workshop. High-heeled shoes are not allowed for safety reasons.
Recap
The "San José de Gracia and Sanctuary of the Broken Christ Tour" offers a captivating 5.5-hour experience that immerses guests in Mexico’s cultural heritage. Participants enjoy a scenic boat ride, a hands-on workshop, and visits to the UNESCO-listed Museum of the Insurgency and other historical sites, providing a well-rounded exploration of the enchanting town of San José de Gracia and its vibrant colonial charm.
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