Puerto Vallarta: Cultural Heritage of Jalisco

As part of the celebration of the bicentennial of the founding of the Free and Sovereign State of Jalisco (June 16th, 1893), Puerto Vallarta was declared a Jalisco Cultural Heritage Site, a well-deserved recognition that highlights the historical and cultural richness of this tourist destination in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta stands out not only for its natural attractions of sun, sea and mountains, but also for being a window of Mexican culture to the world.

Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the state’s cultural icons, such as tequila, charrería and mariachi, which give the entire country its identity and represent it throughout the world. Tequila, one of the most emblematic drinks of Jalisco and Mexico, has crossed borders and conquered the most demanding palates in the world. On the other hand, charrería, considered the national sport par excellence, has been included in UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage of Humanity, thanks to its deep roots in Mexican values and history.

In 2018, the Historic Center of Puerto Vallarta was declared a Jalisco Cultural Heritage Site. This designation is a recognition of the architectural and cultural value of this area, which has managed to preserve its traditional charm over the years. The Vallarta people keep alive the tradition of the Fiestas Guadalupanas, declared an Intangible Heritage of the State, as a way of expressing the collective identity of the community.

The Fiestas Guadalupanas in Puerto Vallarta are an annual celebration that has been passed down through generations and is still a popular practice today. Declared an Intangible Heritage of the State because of the collective identity of the community, thousands of believers gather in Puerto Vallarta Downtown to show their faith and give thanks for the favors they have received during the year. From December 1st to 12th, during the Fiestas Guadalupanas, up to 400 processions are registered along Juarez Street until arriving at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. A large number of pilgrims also travel from other municipalities in Jalisco and near states to join this religious commemoration.

The Puerto Vallarta Downtown, characterized by its cobblestone streets, white-walled houses and reddish tiles, is the historical heart of the city and now forms part of the Cultural Heritage of Jalisco. In 2018, on the occasion of Puerto Vallarta’s centennial, the Jalisco Ministry of Culture announced this significant declaration, which includes the protection and conservation of the entire urban image within the polygon known as the “Fundo Legal.” The declaration also encompasses the preservation of distinctive architectural elements with heritage value found within this area.

With this declaration, the traditional buildings and monuments located in Puerto Vallarta Downtown, such as the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and the Plaza de Armas, must preserve and maintain their image and essential characteristics. This will ensure that the first part of the city maintains these unique qualities that distinguish and give identity to Puerto Vallarta.

With its traditional architecture, festivities rooted in Mexican tradition and the presence of iconic elements of the state, Puerto Vallarta is consolidating itself as a place that enriches and shares the Mexican culture with the world.