Did you know that very close to Guadalajara there is a historic site that few people know about? It is the Chimulco Ruins, in Amatitán, a place that seems frozen in time.
This site was built approximately 300 years ago, in the middle of the 18th century, and in its heyday served as an exclusive spa for the upper classes.
It is believed that prominent families from the region had it built as a gathering place for swimming, dining, and relaxing.
What You’ll Find at the Chimulco Ruins
Today, this historic site has become the perfect plan for a unique getaway.
Inside the complex, you’ll find a restaurant where you can enjoy everything from pizza to wine, surrounded by green spaces that are ideal for spending the afternoon.
But the most impressive part remains intact:
- An enclosed pool with four walls in the Arabic style, fed by a qanat (an underground aqueduct of Persian origin).
- A tunnel approximately 50 meters long, which you can walk through and which remains almost exactly as it was centuries ago.
The blend of history, architecture, and nature makes this place feel completely out of the ordinary.
What Else to Do in Amatitán
If you’re already in Amatitán, it’s worth taking advantage of the trip to explore other interesting spots:
- The Temple of the Immaculate Conception, rebuilt by renowned architect Luis Barragán.
- Hacienda San José del Refugio, one of the oldest tequila distilleries in the country.
- The Agave Landscape Interpretive Museum and the Old Taverns, where the history of tequila and the region’s origins are told.
- Tours through the agave landscape… even by hot air balloon!
Tips for Your Visit
Keep in mind that Amatitán is usually hotter and drier than Guadalajara, so it’s best to come prepared:
- Bring sunscreen
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Stay well-hydrated during the tour
