Galeana

The climate in Galeana is usually much colder than the rest of the state. In summer it is pleasantly cool and during winter, temperatures may reach down to -9°C. The winter cold blends with a noticeable lack of air humidity.

The annual average is 17°C, and the average rain precipitation is around 446 mm.

Predominant winds come from the north.

The best time to visit Galeana

The optimal time to visit Galeana largely depends on individual preferences and interests.

For those seeking outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, and exploring the area’s natural wonders, the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

During these seasons, temperatures are mild, and the landscape bursts with colorful flora and fauna.

If you wish to witness the region’s vibrant cultural festivities and celebrations, consider planning your visit during traditional holidays such as Dia de los Muertos in early November or Semana Santa leading up to Easter.

Don Martin Zavala, colonizer of the New Kingdom of León, entrusted General Don Fernando Sanchez de Zamora with the foundation of this land to exploit his agricultural resources. In the year 1678, he founded the valley of San Pablo de los Labradores.

The first years were populated by Guachichil Indians, headed by a Franciscan missionary. On February 14, 1892, it was erected as a village, and on December 28, 1877 as a city.

It was given the name of Galeana in honor of Hermenegildo Galeana, a lieutenant involved in the country’s movement towards independence who fought in the War of Independence.

In Galeana you can find some regional food restaurants such as La Casona del General and Plaza Restaurant, there is a gas station, grocery stores, medical services, and bus service to Matehuala, Doctor Arroyo, and Linares.

The main square stands the church of San Pablo, whose construction dates from the eighteenth century.

The municipality is known for its numerous tourist attractions. Probably the best-known attraction is the Cerro del Potosí (Potosi’s Mount), the highest mountain in the whole state, which rises over 3,700 m above sea level.

In 2000, Cerro del Potosí was declared a Natural Protected Area.

There you can find forests of oyamel, hayarín, pine, oak, and strawberry trees. From the top, you can see the mountain belt of the Sierra Madre Oriental, as well as the Laguna de Labradores and the Pozo del Gavilán.

The journey on foot or horse to the top of Cerro del Potosi from the ejido San Francisco de los Blanco is very interesting, and in winter, it gives you snow-covered landscapes.

On the Rayones-Galeana highway lies El Puente de Dios (God’s Bridge), a majestic natural archway that lies on top of a small creek. It is a natural arch 15 meters high and 30 wide formed by the action of water, creating high vertical walls and deep precipices.

To get there it is necessary to take the dirt road to Rayones. Drive seven kilometers more and take the right at the fork, a kilometer later you will find this natural beauty.

Pozo del Gavilán is an enormous, deep natural cenote, where diverse species live.

The well-known “Pozo del Gavilán”, is approximately 80 meters deep and has a radius of 120 meters. You can hire extreme sports services for activities such as rappelling and kayaking in the turquoise waters of the cenote.

The Laguna de Labradores, in the capital, is a small lake connected to the Pozo del Gavilán. Fishing from the shore or by boat is one of the recurring activities. You can find species such as carp, rainbow trout, catfish, mojarra, and robaleta.

The lagoon was formed by faults in the subsoil and has a calculated depth between 200 and 300 meters.

Stews with Galeana potatoes, roast pork, roast beef, and nopales are very famous.

Cheeses from cow’s milk or goat are produced in their different forms.  In Semana Santa, it is tradition that the “chicales” (a stew made with solid corn, red chile, and spices) are consumed.

Pumpkin sweets, chilacayote, preserves of peach, apple, plums, figs, and burnt milk sweets, among others are made. One of the most representative drinks is the Chona wine, which is beginning to be distilled in the municipality.

The famous Galeana potatoes are a variety that is also known as the mountain potato. It is a very small regional potato, which is believed to have existed in the wild since pre-Hispanic times.

The municipal seat is a picturesque town that celebrates two annual fairs: that of St. Paul the Apostle, patron saint, from January 15 to 25. There are processions, pastorelas, and pyrotechnics, to conclude with a regional fair.

In addition, the Potato and Apple Fair is held from September 15 to 20.

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