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Archaeological site · San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
Zona Arqueológica Cañada de la Virgen
A complex of pyramids and plazas of an ancient Bajío people, about 30 km from San Miguel, opened to visitors in 2011.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Zona Arqueológica Cañada de la Virgen
Cañada de la Virgen is an archaeological zone on top of a mesa between canyons, about 30 km southwest of San Miguel de Allende. It was occupied between 540 and 1050 by an agricultural people of the Bajío, and excavations began in 2002. The site opened to visitors in 2011.
The main complex is a pyramid with an enclosed plaza, the Casa de los Trece Cielos, oriented to astronomical phenomena such as the rise and set of the Moon and Venus. There is also a stone house and a ceremonial path that climbs up to the complex.
Visits are organized by the site: visitors leave their car at the reception center and travel by site transport to the start of the trail, which is walked on foot and includes an uphill section. Climbing on the structures is usually prohibited.
The surrounding landscape is open fields and canyons, with long views over the Laja river valley.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, including internal transport.
Best time
In the morning, when there is less sun. Check opening days and hours before you go.
How to get there
About 30 km from San Miguel de Allende, via the road to Guanajuato and a stretch of dirt road. By car, taxi or tour.
Tip
Bring a hat, water and sunscreen: the trail has little shade.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zona Arqueológica Cañada de la Virgen
How to visit Cañada de la Virgen?
Arrive at the site's reception center, from where a transport takes you to the start of the walking trail.
What is the distance from San Miguel de Allende to Cañada de la Virgen?
About 30 km, roughly 40 minutes by car.
Can you climb the pyramid at Cañada de la Virgen?
Climbing on the structures is usually prohibited.