La Garita: History, Parish Church and Las Jaras

History tells of an early resting place and the development of the parish church; Las Jaras is known for bathing and heat treatments, as well as other services. You can plan your stay according to which of these interests you most.

Local History and the Parish Church

La Garita’s founding is dated to around 1846. Even earlier, the town served as a resting place for merchants from Michoacán on their way to Colima. On November 12, 1934, the town’s name was changed from Hacienda de San Lázaro to La Garita.

The history of the former chapel and the present-day parish church spans separate construction phases. Construction of the former chapel began with the laying of its cornerstone on April 15, 1883. The cornerstone for the present-day parish church was laid on June 12, 1956, and work on the foundations began in 1957. The church opened on May 12, 1963, although its roof was not yet finished. La Garita was elevated to parish status on June 21, 1974. From 1930 onward, the chaplaincy of La Garita was under the parish of San Juan de la Montaña until it was elevated to an independent parish. These dates describe different stages: the start of construction, the opening, and its later ecclesiastical status.

Patron Saint Celebrations

The patron saint celebrations are said to take place from November 20 to 30. During this time, the image of the Virgen del Sagrario de Tamazula visits the town. Check the specific festival dates before traveling.

Getting There and the Road Connection

National Highway 110, Jiquilpan–Manzanillo, adds to the area’s history of transportation links. Construction began in 1940; it passes through La Garita and connects the town with Tamazula and Mazamitla. This road should be distinguished from the older merchant route to Colima: it is part of a later transportation history. If you plan to use it for a trip, check the current route and road conditions in advance.

Las Jaras and Its Offerings

Las Jaras is a temazcal spa in La Garita that also attracts visitors from outside the region. Its facilities include swimming pools and slides for children and adults. There is also a sauna, a natural steam bath, a mud bath, and thermal-water pools. Las Jaras thus combines bathing areas with various heat treatments; facilities may change over time.

Massages and body and facial treatments complement the offerings. Las Jaras also provides a restaurant, accommodations, a mini-market, and a snack bar. Alongside bathing and treatment options, its services therefore include food and accommodations. Check the current facilities and services before your visit, as details may change.

Discover more destinations: Tamazula De Gordiano, Coyula, Mazamitla, El Tuito, Tequila, Tenacatita, San Juan De Los Lagos, El Jacal

For the broader travel guide: Jalisco.