Car Hire Real de Catorce - Mini guide to Real de Catorce

The small isolated town of Real de Catorce is a Mecca for tourists seeking somewhere remote with a beauty all of its own. Situated high in the Sierra Madre mountains of Mexico, this former mining town is located on sacred ground. A famed statue of St Francis of Assisi attracts pilgrims drawn to its healing properties.

This 18th century town was originally centred on mining, and the silver from its mines gave yearly profits in the millions. At the apex of its prosperity it supported a population of 40,000, complete with grand buildings such as an opera house. Nowadays it is a virtual ghost town, with the residents and silver long since departed. However, reminders of its grand past are everywhere, from aristocratic homes to opulent churches.

The main sites include the Parroquial Museum, with its historic memorabilia, photos and mining equipment. It is also possible to visit Dolores Trompeta and Padre Flores,although the chances of stumbling upon silver are miniscule. St Francis of Assisi’s statue is housed in the church of San Francisco, and it is surrounded by thousands of mementos left by pilgrims to thank the saint for curing their illnesses.

Trips from Real de Catorce include a visit to the scenic valley of Los Catorce. The valley is watered by an underground river whose sacred properties help feed numerous medicinal herbs which grow there. These herbs are highly prized by advocates of traditional medicines. The nearby mountains are best explored on horseback and camping is allowed across the range.

By car, you drive through the 2.3 kilometre long Ogarrio Tunnel, which connects the town with the other side of the Sierra. Buses to Real de Catorce leave from Matehuala. The bus leaves you just in front of the tunnel, which is the entrance to the town. Shuttles will take you through the tunnel. Buses also operate from Mexico City out of Terminal del Norte to San Luis Potosi (six hours). Real de Catorce is accessible by train from Mexico City. There is a train station 17 kilometres from the town, but the trains are run down and very slow.