San José de Gracia is a Pueblo Mágico in the state of Aguascalientes, Mexico. Nestled in a mountainous valley, it offers visitors stunning panoramic views, peaceful plazas, and a blend of tradition and spirituality that make it a unique destination.

San José de Gracia sits on the banks of the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam, surrounded by scenic mountain landscapes. Its most iconic attraction is the monumental Cristo Roto (Broken Christ) statue, rising from a small islet in the middle of the reservoir.

The statue, depicting Christ without a right arm and leg, symbolizes resilience, faith, and the strength of those who suffer. This striking monument has become a spiritual landmark and a major draw for visitors, blending natural beauty with cultural and religious significance.

The town’s cobbled streets, colorful houses, and lively markets create a welcoming atmosphere. Local crafts, gastronomy, and festivals reflect the spirit of Aguascalientes. Boat rides on the dam and cultural events give travelers a mix of recreation and tradition.

The land surrounding San José de Gracia is largely mountainous and gently hilly. Rivers Blanco and Prieto flow through the area, accompanied by numerous smaller streams, seasonal arroyos, and lush vegetation that add to the scenic charm and natural appeal of the region.

Agriculture, cattle ranching, and forested patches intermingle with more rugged terrain. Natural reserves, local flora including pines, encinos (oaks), chaparral, and fauna such as white-tailed deer, coyotes, and birds make the surroundings rich for nature walks.

San José de Gracia has a temperate climate, influenced by its location in the Sierra Fría region. Summers are warm and humid with most rainfall between June and September, while winters are cooler, with crisp mornings and mild daytime temperatures.

The best time to visit is from October to April, when skies are clearer, rain is rare, and boat rides on the dam are more enjoyable. Those who enjoy greener landscapes and don’t mind occasional showers may prefer the rainy season for its vibrant scenery.

The town is called San José de Gracia in honor of Saint Joseph, the patron saint celebrated on March 19. Religious devotion to San José has long been central to the community’s identity and is reflected in its traditions and local festivals.

In 2009, San José de Gracia was designated a Pueblo Mágico, highlighting its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual symbolism. The Cristo Roto statue, rising from the dam, reinforces the town’s identity as a place of faith and resilience.

San José de Gracia has deep roots in the Sierra Fría region of Aguascalientes. Its development was shaped by ranching communities, devotion to Saint Joseph. In the 1920s, an entire town was submerged under water, and people had to relocate and start over.

Between 1927 and 1928, the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam, the country’s first major hydraulic project, was built, flooding the old San José. Since then, the town has lived beside the dam, also surrounded by the imposing Sierra Fría mountains, blending history with nature.

Today, San José de Gracia is a peaceful and picturesque destination, one of “pueblos magicos”, offering strong religious traditions, spectacular landscapes, and adventure opportunities. Visitors can enjoy both cultural heritage and natural beauty in this unique town.

The town gained national attention with the creation of the monumental Cristo Roto statue, which became a symbol of faith and resilience. In 2009, it was officially named a Pueblo Mágico, recognizing its cultural traditions, scenic beauty, and spiritual importance.

The town of San José de Gracia attracts visitors with its unique blend of nature and faith. The highlight is the Cristo Roto statue, located on an islet in the dam, accessible by boat tours that offer panoramic views of the mountains and reservoir.

Broken Christ – Cristo Roto

The Broken Christ on a small island is the iconic symbol of San José de Gracia. Born from the town’s experience of seeing their old village submerged, the sculpture represents the resilience of a community that adapted, rebuilt, and kept its faith alive.

The statue stands on a tiny island in the middle of the dam, reaching 28 meters high.

The Broken Christ statue was inspired by an image a priest found without a cross, missing an arm and a leg. Visitors can reach it via short boat tours from the town’s dock, offering panoramic views of the dam and surrounding Sierra Fría mountains.

The scene is striking: a small island with a giant sculpture at its center. People come to pray, give thanks, and ask for miracles. Even for those who are not believers, the view is extraordinary, a unique and unforgettable visual experience in this Magical Town.

The town

Beyond the monument, travelers can enjoy the peaceful town center with its cobbled streets, local crafts, and regional cuisine. Hiking trails, viewpoints, and the surrounding Sierra Fría forests make it a perfect spot for both cultural discovery and outdoor adventure.

The center of San José de Gracia is small but full of the charm of an authentic Magical Town. Its heart is the shaded Main Garden, perfect for sitting on a bench and watching daily life. Nearby stands the Municipal Palace, featuring white arches and a simple design.

The Parish of San José is a modest church. In the middle of the garden, a two-level gazebo and a small open-air stage host occasional cultural events. Walking here feels like stepping back into a traditional Mexican village, surrounded by history and community life.

Shops sell typical sweets such as membrillo, crafts, and charrería items, reflecting the town’s identity. Food options abound around the plaza and dock area, including pacholas, a type of ground meat patty, while some restaurants offer scenic views of the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam.

Visitors can explore natural and cultural sites on a one-day trip. The surrounding Sierra Fría mountains offer hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and birdwatching, while the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam is ideal for boating, photography, and enjoying peaceful landscapes.

San José de Gracia is also an adventure destination. Nature lovers can visit small lakes and natural reserves. The Plutarco Elías Calles Dam is perfect for boat rides, kayaking, or enjoying a picnic in recreational areas with cabins and local restaurants for visitors.

For more intense experiences, Boca de Túnel, located in a semi-desert canyon north of town, offers trails, zip lines, rappel zones, and a 13-bridge suspension circuit crossing the landscape. Visitors can also go horseback riding, cycling, or explore a three-kilometer historic tunnel in the area.

For a calmer experience, San José de Gracia serves as the gateway to the Sierra Fría natural reserve, ideal for hiking and camping. The Los Alamitos Ecological Park provides cabins and a serene forest environment, perfect for visitors wishing to stay more than a day.

San José de Gracia offers traditional Aguascalientes flavors – enchiladas, tamales, and slow-cooked barbacoa – usually served with fresh tortillas, local cheeses, and sauces. Sweet treats like cajeta and seasonal fruits delight visitors, reflecting the town’s rich culinary heritage.

Street vendors, local markets, and small family-run restaurants serve authentic regional specialties. Traditional recipes, passed down through generations, allow tourists to fully experience the flavors, aromas, and vibrant culture of this charming town in Aguascalientes.

The main celebration in San José de Gracia is the feast of San José on March 19. It includes religious ceremonies, colorful processions, and community gatherings. Pilgrimages to the Cristo Roto statue are a key part, attracting locals and visitors alike.

Other events feature traditional dances, regional music, and lively fairs highlighting local crafts, foods, and gastronomy. These festivities reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage, strong community bonds, and devotion to faith, drawing tourists from near and far.

San José de Gracia can be reached by car from Aguascalientes City, approximately 90 km away along Federal Highway 25. Buses and shared taxis also connect the town with nearby municipalities such as Rincón de Romos and Cosío, making travel convenient for visitors.

Once in town, most attractions are within walking distance, including the Cristo Roto statue. Scenic boat tours on the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam provide an alternative way to explore the reservoir and surrounding hills, offering panoramic views and unique photo opportunities.

Accommodation options in San José de Gracia are limited. Visitors can choose from small guesthouses, cozy cabins, or family-run inns near the dam or in the town center, providing easy access to the Cristo Roto statue and nearby scenic spots for a comfortable stay.

For more variety, travelers can stay in Aguascalientes City.