Artesanos de TonaláCould it be a legacy handed down to us from immortal races? Could it be that necessity led to art, or perhaps it is a divine gift? From where does man get the inspiration to make something from nothing? Tonalá - "place where the sun rises."
Cihualpilli Plaza
Filled with art everywhere, this warm Tonalan setting pays homage to the queen that governed Tonalá when the Spanish arrived here in 1530. Its artisan kiosk has been around since 1897. (Downtown Tonalá).
Sagrado Corazón Sanctuary
On the outside, this sanctuary exudes a Gothic style, but the interior is pure Renaissance. There is also a spectacular Italian oil painting of the via crucis on display. (Next to the Municipal Presidency).
Santiago Apóstol Church
Constructed in 1652 by the Augustinian Order, this one-story building contains three beautiful naves. A commemorative arch (Borarel Arch) made of Castillian stone is preserved adjacent to the building. (Pino Suárez and Pedro Moreno).
Calvario Chapel
Also known as the Cruz Blanca Chapel, this chapel played host to the first evangelical mass in western Mexico in 1530. (Santos Degollado and Cruz Blanca).
National Ceramics Museum
Divided into six galleries, this museum exhibits an excellent collection of handicraft pieces made using various techniques and different types of ceramic. At the same time, there are newer works displaying the modern ideals of Tonalá. 104 Constitución. Mon - Fri, 9 am - 5 pm; Sat - Sun, 9 am - 3 pm; 3284 3070 / 71).
Tonalá Museum
Handicrafts from pre-Hispanic to contemporary times are housed in the four galleries of this historic and original building. (73 Ramón Corona. Mon - Fri 9 am - 3 pm; 3683 2519).
House of Handicrafts
Intended to rescue, spread and commercially promote handicraft work from Tonalá, this house of crafts displays a permanent collection of prizewinning pieces revered both for their high quality and for their originality. (140 Tonaltecas Avenue. Mon - Fri, 9 am - 7 pm; Sat, 9 am - 1 pm; 3284 3068 / 66. http://www.casadeartesanos.com/).
La Reina Hill
This scenic lookout offers a breathtaking view of the city of Guadalajara and the Los Altos plateau. Here, visitors can find a monument to Queen Cihualpilli, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe and a staff where the largest flag in the state flies. (At the end of Hidalgo and Obregón Streets).
Tonalá Fair
The handicraft, cultural and artistic displays make this one of the finest fairs in our state. Music, dance, theater, cockfights and, of course, handicrafts. April 15 - 30.
Santa Cruz Festival
This truly folk festival has a pre-Hispanic origin. Visitors can explore the 17 churches erected next to their respective crosses and enjoy joyous celebration in each one of them. Take part in the romerías (religious processions from church to church), dances, music and fireworks. Beginning May 2.
