Named after Louis IX of France, San Luis Potosi is a vibrant industrial city and the capital of the Mexican state of the same name. Its historic core is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, a centuries-old royal road that connected Mexico City with San Juan Pueblo.
Things to do in San Luis Potosí
Dominating the city centre is St. Louis the King Cathedral, which was built between 1670 and 1730. It was the first Baroque building constructed in San Luis Potosi, although its interior has since been redecorated in a Neoclassical style. Take note of the apostle statues carved from Carrara marble and the main altar crafted from cypress. The cathedral watches over Plaza del Carmen where street artists regularly perform.
On the southwestern edge of San Luis Potosi is the Museo Laberinto de las Ciencias y las Artes, which is packed with hands-on and interactive exhibits exploring the worlds of science, technology and art. It occupies a contemporary building designed by Ricardo Legorreta and features an observatory tower from where you can observe the stars.
Art enthusiasts should make a point of visiting the Museo Leonora Carrington, which forms part of the San Luis Potosi Centenario Arts Center. It is dedicated to the work of the English-born Surrealist artist, who spent much of her adult life in Mexico. In addition to Carrington’s sculptures, jewellery and engravings, the museum exhibits personal objects and temporary exhibitions by artists she influenced.
Getting around San Luis Potosí
San Luis Potosi International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the city centre and has flights to destinations across North America. Regular buses connect to San Luis Potosi and travel throughout the city. The centre of San Luis Potosi can easily be explored on foot.