Tierra Nueva: the Magic Town featuring a city under water

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Located in the central region of the state, 72 kilometers from the capital of San Luis Potosí, is Tierra Nueva; a municipality that in 2023 joined the list of Mexican Magic Towns.

This Magic Town stands out for its cultural, historical, and natural wealth. With an artisan tradition that distinguishes it nationally, this destination offers a unique experience for travelers looking for a combination of history, adventure, and gastronomy.

The main attractions of Tierra Nueva are the artisanal production of palm hats and the extraction and use of the red stone “pigeon blood”. A stone that has been worked by the inhabitants of the region since the 19th century.

Nature lovers can explore the Sierras del Divisadero, La Ciénega, and El Camarón, ideal for hiking, trekking, and camping. Likewise, the Cerro de León offers spectacular panoramic views for photography enthusiasts.

For those who enjoy water activities, the La Muñeca dam is a key point, as it allows for sport fishing, motor boating, and boat rides. In addition, the Tierra Nueva Sport Fishing Tournament is held in its waters, an annual event that attracts competitors from different parts of the country.

The town center retains its colonial charm with cobblestone streets and the historic parish of San Nicolás Tolentino, patron saint of the town, where visitors can admire its architecture and enjoy a walk through the Hidalgo garden.

One of the works that draws the most attention concerning Tierra Nueva is the construction of the La Muñeca dam, located 6 kilometers from the municipal capital, which was built to capture water for the region.

Its development began in the 1960s in a territory known as Vigas, a town that was evacuated to make way for the construction of the dam. This town was buried under the 31.1 million cubic meters that the dam collects.

However, it is still possible to enjoy the remains of what was once the town of Vigas. When the tide is low, you can see the structures of some corrals, the parish tower, and some other buildings from that decade.

In addition, this body of water offers a unique natural environment and various recreational activities, including sport fishing (without nets), hiking through semi-desert landscapes, and taking advantage of the recreational areas with palapas, grills, and cabins for rent. Where does the name of this dam come from? From a nearby hill, whose shape resembles a female figure.

Tierra Nueva is a destination where culture and tradition are present in every corner. Its Regional Fair (FERETI), held between the end of August and the beginning of September, is one of the most important festivals in the region.

During these days, the town is filled with music, traditional dances, fireworks, rodeos, and religious activities in honor of the town’s patron saint.

Other important festivities include the Fiesta de la Santa Cruz, on May 2 and 3, and celebrations in the six neighborhoods of the municipal capital, where visitors can enjoy pilgrimages, dances, and food fairs with typical dishes such as tamales, atole, enchiladas Huastecas, and fried corn gorditas stuffed with pork. In addition to typical sweets such as tuna Melcocha, tuna jam, and sweet chilacayote.

In addition, the Señor de la Piedad neighborhood is an ideal place to purchase crafts made by Newfoundland hands, such as pieces of clay, wood, slate, honey, and agave, as well as textiles and saddlery.

Tierra Nueva is, without a doubt, an emerging destination in San Luis Potosí tourism that combines tradition, adventure, and nature. Whether exploring its landscapes, participating in its festivities, or tasting its gastronomy, this Magical Town promises an unforgettable experience for those looking to discover the essence of Mexico.

Source: El Universal

San Luis Potosi Post