Lagos de Moreno has become the fifth town in Jalisco to be recognized as one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (magical villages).
Governor Emilio Gonzalez and Tourism Secretary Gloria Guevara Manzo unveiled a plaque officially naming Lagos de Moreno as a Pueblo Magico last week, in a move that will help the municipality to draw more tourists, create jobs and attract resources for local infrastructure.
“Becoming a Pueblo Magico is recognition of the work of all residents to preserve their cultural and human heritage, and share it with national and international visitors,” Guevera said.
Founded in northeastern Jalisco in 1563, Lagos de Moreno is referred to in some quarters as the “Athens of Jalisco,” because of the numerous writers and poets born there. Every year in late July and early August, the town celebrates the “Fiestas de Agosto,” with a range of sporting, artistic, cultural and folkloric events.To date, 66 of Mexico’s 2,500 municipalities have been named Pueblos Magicos, including Mazamitla, San Sebastian de Oeste, Tequila and Tapala in Jalisco.
Developed by Mexico’s Department of Tourism (Sectur), the Pueblo Magico designation was launched in 2001 to promote towns that offer visitors a “magical” experience – by way of their natural beauty, cultural riches or historical relevance.
To be considered, a town must have strong local support; a wide range of attractions that set it apart from other places; and adequate infrastructure, including tourist information, basic security measures and a number of nearby hotels and restaurants.
Designated towns are typically Mexican communities home to historical buildings or monuments, noteworthy architecture, unique festivals, special traditions, local crafts and culinary specialties. They are also encouraged to develop and market outdoor activities such as fishing and extreme sports to give tourists more options.
The benefits of becoming a Pueblo Magico include access to federal funds for tourism infrastructure improvements, including the preservation of historical sites, the diversification of tourist attractions, the creation and modernization of tourist-related businesses, greater publicity, and an increase in jobs and local revenue.