Templo de San Cayetano La Valenciana
An 18th-century pink stone church adorned with 24-karat gold leaf, built to honor the riches of the Valenciana Mine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Templo de San Cayetano La Valenciana
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18th-century pink stone church adorned with 24-karat gold leaf, built to honor the riches of the Valenciana Mine.
"WOW! We have seen hundreds of churches around the world, and this one is up there with the most interesting."
Taxi Fare Negotiation
Confirm taxi rates beforehand; some may overcharge. Aim for around 70 pesos from the Basilica. :taxi:
Combine with Mine Tours
Enhance your visit by exploring nearby mines like Bocamina San Cayetano. :pick:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Golden Altar
Main Altar
Marvel at the breathtaking 24-karat gold leaf retablos, a testament to the mine's colonial-era riches.
The Grand Organ
Choir Loft
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of one of humanity's most magnificent musical instruments.
Baroque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the stunning pink stone facade and the richly decorated Baroque interior, a true artistic masterpiece.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Beyond the Church: Exploring the Valenciana Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Taxi Fare Negotiation
Confirm taxi rates beforehand; some may overcharge. Aim for around 70 pesos from the Basilica.
:taxi:Combine with Mine Tours
Enhance your visit by exploring nearby mines like Bocamina San Cayetano.
:pick:Free Admission
Entry to the church is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
:moneywithwings:Photography Opportunities
The ornate interiors and exterior offer stunning photo opportunities.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
Taxi Fare Negotiation
Confirm taxi rates beforehand; some may overcharge. Aim for around 70 pesos from the Basilica.
:taxi:Combine with Mine Tours
Enhance your visit by exploring nearby mines like Bocamina San Cayetano.
:pick:Free Admission
Entry to the church is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
:moneywithwings:Photography Opportunities
The ornate interiors and exterior offer stunning photo opportunities.
:camerawithflash:Souvenir Shopping
Small souvenir shops nearby offer good prices.
:gift:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Templo de San Cayetano's opulent gold-leaf interiors and its historical connection to the Valenciana Mine. While small, its lavish decoration and the impressive organ make it a memorable stop. Some note its slightly out-of-the-way location, but recommend combining it with mine tours for a fuller experience.
"In gratitude for the riches obtained from the mine just to the north of the church the mine owner commissioned the construction of this church. Not large but lavish. The gold alters are real gold recovered from the mine. A must see if you are visiting Guanajuato."
Carlos Yanez
"WOW! We have seen hundreds of churches around the world, and this one is up there with the most interesting.
Obscene expenditure during construction by an individual, as opposed to a religious order, which is the norm generally."
Portpad Traveller
"Beautiful temple but it is small and a quick visit. Location is out of the way but make sure you visit one of the mines nearby (Bocamina San Ramon, etc). It is free to enter.
Also, check with any of the tourist booths around Guanajuato for current approximate taxi rates. At my time of posting, it was 70 pesos one way from the Basilica. I had a few taxis try to tell me a lot more but when I called them out on it, he said "okay I'll do it for 70 pesos"."
Johnny Liao
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Templo de San Cayetano is located in the Valenciana area, north of Guanajuato city. Taxis are a common and convenient option, with fares typically around 70 pesos from the Basilica.
Some visitors also mention it's accessible by local buses, though this might require more navigation.Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using a taxi to avoid parking hassles.
While it's a scenic area, walking to Templo de San Cayetano from the city center is a significant distance and uphill. Taxis or buses are recommended for most visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Templo de San Cayetano is generally free.
However, donations are appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic site.Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or aim for visits during the day to ensure it's accessible.
Mine tours, such as Bocamina San Cayetano, usually have an entrance fee. Prices can vary, so it's good to inquire at the mine entrance or local tourist information.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or other visitors.
Flash photography might be restricted to protect the delicate gold leaf.The ornate golden altar, the grand organ, and the exterior facade are prime photography locations. Views from the surrounding hills also offer stunning perspectives of the church and Guanajuato.
Drone photography might be subject to local regulations and permissions. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
A visit to the church itself is relatively short, often taking around 30-60 minutes to appreciate the interior.
However, if you plan to combine it with a mine tour, allow for several hours.The church was built in gratitude for the immense wealth extracted from the adjacent Valenciana Mine during the colonial period, commissioned by the mine owner.
While official guided tours might not always be readily available, local guides may offer their services. You can also explore the history through informational plaques or by researching beforehand.
The Templo de San Cayetano is a prime example of Baroque architecture, particularly known for its opulent gold leaf ornamentation.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
While the immediate area around the church might have limited dining options, you can find more choices back in Guanajuato city. Some small souvenir shops are located nearby.
You can find typical Mexican crafts and souvenirs in the shops around the church and mine entrances. Some visitors mention purchasing local products like 'skirt' bottles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Golden Legacy of Valenciana
Visiting the church offers a glimpse into this era of significant silver production in Guanajuato. The Baroque architecture of the pink stone facade and the intricately decorated interior showcase the artistic and religious fervor of the time. Understanding the connection between the mine and the church enriches the visitor's appreciation for both sites.
Beyond the church itself, the surrounding area of La Valenciana is steeped in mining history. Exploring nearby mines, such as Bocamina San Cayetano or Bocamina San Ramon, provides a tangible connection to the source of this historical wealth. These tours offer insights into the challenging conditions of mining and the ingenuity of the era, making for a more comprehensive understanding of Guanajuato's heritage.
The Majestic Organ of San Cayetano
While the visual splendor of the golden altars often takes center stage, the organ represents a different kind of artistry and dedication. Its presence speaks to the cultural and spiritual life of the community during the church's active period. Visitors often express awe at its presence, highlighting it as a unique and memorable aspect of their visit.
Although not always played, the organ stands as a silent testament to the church's historical significance and its role as a center for worship and community. Its intricate pipes and imposing structure are a visual delight and a reminder of the diverse artistic expressions found within Guanajuato's historic sites.
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