Real de Catorce is a mining town surrounded by an ancestral energy, that is nestled among mountains with arid desert vegetation and a dry desert climate. This treasure of the Potosi Altiplano, was founded in 1778 under the name Real de Minas de la Limpia Concepción de Guadalupe de los Alamos de Catorce, in which large groups of miners lived with their families. The mining boom began in the late 19th century, and due to the great wealth of the mines in the area, it quickly developed with a high standard as seen in the haciendas, houses and plazas that remain to this day and serve as a reminder of the prosperity of that time. Passing through the Ogarrio tunnel, one senses the adventure that is about to begin, through the 1.9 km (1.2 mi) trajectory to the entrance of Real de Catorce.  Coming out of the intense light from the tunnel, the stone lined streets are slowly revealed,  where one can perceive the energy from the times of the miners and the essence of the town and its people. A tour of the town is short but highly recommended.  It begins with a visit to the village cemetery, where the first chapel was built. The second stop is the Mina del Padre Flores, named for a well known figure of which various legends are woven.  The tour continues with the Plaza del Toros (Bullring) and the El Paredón (Great Wall) where executions were to have taken place.  And after visiting the Palenque de Gallos (Cockfighting Ring), the journey concludes at the Plaza de Armas. About twelve hundred people live in Real de Catorce, who are classified into three groups: catorceños (locals), Huichols (indigenous), and foreigners.  Although these distinct groups all have diverse ideologies, they all unify together to mark the course of this sacred place. A stay in this magical town Real de Catorce, is more than an adventure, it is living the history, feeling its energy, remembering its past, enjoying the traditions, and knowing the warmth of its people.  All of this coupled with the comfort offered by the hotels and the excellent cuisine of its restaurants, makes the site a unique experience.

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