Surrounded by pine covered mountains, Talpa de Allende, another silver
mining town, founded by the Spanish in 1599, has a population of about
10,500 - including 9 gringos, is an
important
religious site in Mexico. There are 4 pilgrimages a year to see the Virgin
"Rosario of Talpa", a small statue that is said to have healing
powers, On these occasions the town's population triples.
Candlemass (Fiesta de la Candelaria, January 25 - February 2);
Feast of Saint Joseph (Fiesta de San JosČ, March 10 - 19);
Anniversary of Crowning of the Virgin of Talpa (May 10 - 12);
Anniversary of the Renovation of the Virgin of Talpa (September 10) and
Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary (Fiesta de la Virgen del Rosario, October 7)
At over 4,000 feet the climate is wonderful and the town, which is scrupulously
clean, has several hotels and restaurants. I was also told that there is a 'geothermic
steam bath house' in town. Many stores sell the famous Guava Roll and tiny articles,
like sombreros and sandals made out of chewing gum. This is not sweet gum, it
is derived from the Chitle tree which grows locally. Now you know where the word "Chiclets" come
from.
