Zacatecas, Mexico - A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Over the years I have had an opportunity to see and experience many interesting environments. Unfortunately photography seemed not a priority. I am sure it had something to do with youth, and my frequently challenged sense of immortality. Yes, my ways have changed, but I am in no way a photographer, so please don't judge me by such definition.
As I have become more familiar with this group I sense a wonderful opportunity for it to become a beacon within the morass of sites vying for attention on the web. One thought would be to have a few architecturally relevant photo categories, such as world heritage sites, where members could post photographs and descriptions. There are so many wonderful photographs and accompanying stories that they seem a natural way to promote MyarchN to the uninitiated. I thoroughly enjoy the fact that they flow freely, however I thought a few dedicated categories, which could be classified by internationally recognized titles, might draw some new traffic to MyarchN. Search engine optimization, spiders, snail trails, page authority, etc being what it is today, might make this an idea that has some relevance.
If you disagree with my thought, I don't mind. I am no more a search engine optimizer than I am a photographer. I am only learning to survive amongst their presence. Any way I have offered some photographs from a heritage site I enjoy, Zacatecas, Mexico.
Zacatecas lies in the high, central region of Mexico. It sets at an elevation of approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). As a destination it sees fewer tourists than many heritage sites. It is fairly removed from the typical travel area. By auto, it is about 2 1/2 hours from the city of San Luis Potosi, which is where I spend most of my time. San Luis Potosi and Zacatecas offer beautiful examples of architecture, pride and restoration. Both cities' 'modern history' date to the mid 1,500's when the Spanish influence came to full bearing, as they pursued great wealth in the silver mines. You will also find a French influence in the buildings of the area. Civic and cultural pride has endured, finding a solid political footing, which has allowed beautiful restoration work to be pursued.
On your first visit to Zacatecas you will most likely not allow yourself an adequate amount of time. From the beautiful grounds, and the thousands of masks at the Rafael Coronel Museum, which at one time was a convent, you can travel about 520 meters (1,700 feet) into the Eden Mine to another museum. This one offering a world class variety of geological delights. For the younger set, a night club is operated within the mine's confines. You can wander the tunnels and ride an ore car back to where you began, or take an elevator up 60 meters (200 feet) where you exit to a wonderful city view. If you are not faint of heart, you can venture on the Teleferico, from Cerro del Gullo to Cerro de la Buffa. I believe this is the only tram in the world to cross an entire city. As you pass pleasantly overhead you will be able to view the architecture of the Historico Centro District. Later walk the streets, viewing the cathedrals and old hotels. After which have a meal at one of the many fine restaurants and then walk again, this time with a small, brass band. It is enjoyable to experience the sites as a participant, not just an observer. If you do this, beware of the tin cup or you may find it filled too frequently with mescal (a local liqueur of favor).
At any rate I do hope you enjoy the photographs.
As I have become more familiar with this group I sense a wonderful opportunity for it to become a beacon within the morass of sites vying for attention on the web. One thought would be to have a few architecturally relevant photo categories, such as world heritage sites, where members could post photographs and descriptions. There are so many wonderful photographs and accompanying stories that they seem a natural way to promote MyarchN to the uninitiated. I thoroughly enjoy the fact that they flow freely, however I thought a few dedicated categories, which could be classified by internationally recognized titles, might draw some new traffic to MyarchN. Search engine optimization, spiders, snail trails, page authority, etc being what it is today, might make this an idea that has some relevance.
If you disagree with my thought, I don't mind. I am no more a search engine optimizer than I am a photographer. I am only learning to survive amongst their presence. Any way I have offered some photographs from a heritage site I enjoy, Zacatecas, Mexico.
Zacatecas lies in the high, central region of Mexico. It sets at an elevation of approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). As a destination it sees fewer tourists than many heritage sites. It is fairly removed from the typical travel area. By auto, it is about 2 1/2 hours from the city of San Luis Potosi, which is where I spend most of my time. San Luis Potosi and Zacatecas offer beautiful examples of architecture, pride and restoration. Both cities' 'modern history' date to the mid 1,500's when the Spanish influence came to full bearing, as they pursued great wealth in the silver mines. You will also find a French influence in the buildings of the area. Civic and cultural pride has endured, finding a solid political footing, which has allowed beautiful restoration work to be pursued.
On your first visit to Zacatecas you will most likely not allow yourself an adequate amount of time. From the beautiful grounds, and the thousands of masks at the Rafael Coronel Museum, which at one time was a convent, you can travel about 520 meters (1,700 feet) into the Eden Mine to another museum. This one offering a world class variety of geological delights. For the younger set, a night club is operated within the mine's confines. You can wander the tunnels and ride an ore car back to where you began, or take an elevator up 60 meters (200 feet) where you exit to a wonderful city view. If you are not faint of heart, you can venture on the Teleferico, from Cerro del Gullo to Cerro de la Buffa. I believe this is the only tram in the world to cross an entire city. As you pass pleasantly overhead you will be able to view the architecture of the Historico Centro District. Later walk the streets, viewing the cathedrals and old hotels. After which have a meal at one of the many fine restaurants and then walk again, this time with a small, brass band. It is enjoyable to experience the sites as a participant, not just an observer. If you do this, beware of the tin cup or you may find it filled too frequently with mescal (a local liqueur of favor).
At any rate I do hope you enjoy the photographs.
Comment
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Comment by Fred B Thompson on February 12, 2009 at 7:59am -
Sí, es hermoso. Pronto comenzaré a escribir en las catedrales del San Luis Potosi que pienso.
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Comment by Jorge David Cornejo Dueñas on February 11, 2009 at 11:31am -
Seeing your pictures brought back good memories. Way back when life as a kid was easier. Thanks for sharing your pictures.
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Comment by jadranka ahlgren on December 27, 2008 at 9:48am -
Thanks for pictures. I love specially minerals and: " light in the cave..." But also " colors of Mexican facades: yellow and rose..I sow that combination of the facade color for the first time...thanks....
Jadranka
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Comment by Fred B Thompson on December 16, 2008 at 9:58pm
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You are correct Hugo, that area of Mexico is special to me. I have traveled the country over, but I have put roots down in SLP. My youngest daughter is making plans for her Quinceanera next summer. She is considering several cathedrals. I think she will chose the Cathedral San Francisco in the Historical Centro District, perhaps you know it. If I had the time, I would love to do pictorials of the cultural history of Mexico as known through its' architecture for MyarchN. One day I may be able to. It is certainly worth the effort. For today I will contribute as I can.
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Comment by Fred B Thompson on December 16, 2008 at 6:27am
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Yes Hugo, you are correct about both, the economic dilemma that faces many families, and how they work to overcome their situation. The factories in China are filled with similar examples of people whom have left their families,and traveled far for a chance to earn money to provide support for their family back home. My enjoyment of the people and culture within both counties is always tempered by the economic reality that I know exists. I realize that companies such as, Wal Mart represent local opportunity. In the 1990's I understand they were the largest financial port development investor in the main port servicing the Guangdong Economic Zone, and within the last year they adopted standarized (unionized) labor practises in their Shenzhen facility, both of which were locally perceived to be positive. I am only saddened by the fact that I do believe that the value of the 'historical culture' is diminished by their presence. I do think that my previous comment regarding 'big box globalization' is a worthy architectural conversation because the impact of these buildings and businesses goes far beyond the visual.
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Comment by Fred B Thompson on December 15, 2008 at 11:18am
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Cities such as Zacatecas, San Luis Potosi and others are rich in history and culture and not traveled by foreign tourists in the numbers that the 'more popular' sites are. The peoples efforts in these cities deserve the economic support that consistent tourism can provide. They have earned it. They have made a remarkable commitment to restore and support the strong history that exists in their individual areas. As more of a local participant than tourist, I am not anxious to meet too many new travelers. I am fearful of what will follow. Wal Mart is now in both the cities referenced here, Home Depot opened in SLP 2 years ago. I have been there only once. I wanted to see what products they were offering. The products were the same as in Buffalo, NY, USA or Vancouver BC, Canada. There is no great cultural exchange there for sure. I can't speak to the Home Depot experience in China, I just haven't had the heart ......, although I was in a Wal Mart in the GuangZhou area and it reflected the local architecture and community. I should post a photo and maybe we could start a conversation on this phenomenon of 'Big Box Globalization'.
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Comment by Iñigo Ortiz Monasterio on December 13, 2008 at 4:13pm -
Beautiful place!
Zacatecas, an old mining town par excellence, was one of the richest cities in the colonial era, and as well say, sadly one of the tourist sites forgotten.
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