A Magic Town that fosters ancient secrets
Cuatro Ciénegas, in the State of Coahuila, is a place like no other in Mexico and the world. Its surreal landscapes are home to one-of-a-kind forms of life and contain the keys to understanding the origins of life on Earth. Its depths keep traces of the most primitive inhabitants of this land, and its streets tell us important events of Mexico’s recent history. Moreover, Cuatro Ciénegas offers world-class cuisine and touristic facilities, as well as top-notch wine production, making it the perfect destination for either an unforgettable family trip or a romantic escapade. Keep reading to find out some of the many reasons why Cuatro Ciénegas is a must in your list of places to visit.
Nature
It is not by chance that Cuatro Ciénegas is a place of special interest for scientists from all over the world. This place is home to more than 70 endemic species, including reptiles, fish, insects, and vegetal species. Its water systems contain life forms dating back to thousands of millions of years, making Cuatro Ciénegas the perfect natural laboratory to decipher the origins of life in our planet and one of Mexico’s most important wetlands, cataloged as a RAMSAR site (wetland site designated to be of international importance). Cuatro Ciénegas is also within the list of Priority Regions for Conservation of the World Wide Fund for Nature, a geological rarity with places of strange beauty, such as the Plaster Dunes, the Marble Mines, the gorgeous crystal-clear water holes, and the spectacular starry skies of the desert nights.
History
In addition to being home for living fossils, Cuatro Ciénegas is a prehistoric sanctuary, a testament of the life of the first humans who inhabited this region. More than 51 archeological sites have been identified in its caves and walls, representing anthropomorphic, animal, and geometric figures that portray a style unique to the area. Recently, the town of Cuatro Ciénegas joined the list of Magic Towns for its architecture, comprised of 19th-century manors, the colorful main square, and the Callejón de Guevara, which is famous for its coffee shops and handicraft stores, and its main attraction: the Vitali and Ferriño wine cellars, where you will be able to learn more about the local wine culture.
Cuisine
The cuisine of Cuatro Ciénegas is incredibly diverse, a blend of the typical gastronomy of northern Mexico and some local dishes. However, the most outstanding product in the town is wine since the region is the country’s second wine producer. Here you can find red wines varieties such as Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Malbec, and whites like Chardonnay, Semillon, and Sauvignon Blanc.
