La Laja combines a historic route with buildings in the town and a local agave industry. The Camino Real, the central square with its fountain and the chapels provide tangible points of connection to the town’s history; the cultivation of blue agave adds an agricultural dimension to this cultural perspective. If you are planning a stay, La Laja can best be understood through its architectural history and tequila tradition.
Historic Routes and Puente La Laja
La Laja was also historically known as Paso de La Laja because it was located along the Camino Real between Guadalajara and the Altos de Jalisco. La Laja is also on the free highway between Guadalajara and Zapotlanejo. These two connections place the town in different contexts: the Camino Real explains its historic name, while the highway reference describes its location between Guadalajara and Zapotlanejo.
Puente La Laja lies west of the town. It was built toward the end of the colonial period and is practically in ruins. A document from 1802 proposed building the bridge together with the bridge of Calderón. The structure’s history therefore includes both the time of its construction and the planned joint project. Before visiting, it is advisable to check current access.
The Civic Square and Its Fountain
The civic square is considered the center of La Laja and was renovated during the 1998–2000 administration. A large stone fountain stands in its center. A sculpture depicting tequila production forms the centerpiece of the fountain; José Lomeli created it in 2000. The square’s design, fountain and sculpture establish a concrete connection between the town center and local tequila history. The square not only recalls a renovation but also features a motif of local production in its fountain.
Chapels and Architecture
The first chapel in La Laja was built in the 19th century. Its facade and interior are simple; the bells hang in an espadaña, an open bell gable. The San José Obrero chapel is located at Calle Allende 40, opposite the civic square. Its simple altarpiece contains a depiction of Jesus on the cross and a sculpture of Saint Joseph. A lithograph of Our Lady of Guadalupe is on the western plinth.
The San José Obrero church has a rectangular floor plan with three naves. Its facade is unfinished and clad in exposed brick. On the west side, a small metal tower holds the bell that calls the faithful to services.
Agave Cultivation and Tequila History
Blue agave is cultivated in La Laja, and Tequila Cuervo has been established in the town for several decades. The history of local distilleries also includes Newton: the tequila distillery was founded in La Laja in 1920 and later closed. Cultivation, Cuervo’s long-standing presence and the history of a now-closed operation are thus part of the picture. Together, these topics offer insight into the town’s agricultural and industrial connection to tequila production.
Discover more destinations: Tamazula De Gordiano, Mazamitla, Zapopan, San Pedro Tesistán, Mascota, Tequila, Aguacate, La Huerta.
For the main travel overview: Jalisco.
