AGUASCALIENTES

state, central Mexico. One of the country's smallest states (2,112 sq mi [5,471 sq km]), it occupies part of the central plateau between 3,300 and 10,000 ft (1,000 and 3,000 m) above sea level, extending from two spurs of the Sierra Madre eastward and southward to rolling fertile plains. It is well watered and has a mild, healthful climate, with light rainfall. The name, from the Spanish for hot waters, stems from the many thermal springs in the vicinity. Explored by Spaniards in the 16th century, Aguascalientes was a colonial mining centre. During the revolution of 191020 it was the scene of bitter fighting and was occupied by successive factions in the struggle. Since 1950, irrigation projects have greatly increased productivity of the land. The fertile valleys of the north and west are devoted to agriculture, and the plains to livestock raising. Corn (maize), cattle, horses, mules, and hides are exported to neighbouring states. Aguascalientes also grows excellent wines and fruits and is noted for its production of zinc, copper, gold, silver, and other minerals. The state has good rail and highway connections with all parts of Mexico. There is an airport at Aguascalientes (q.v.) city, the state capital. Pop. (1980) 519,000. city, capital of Aguascalientes state, central Mexico. It stands on the central plateau at 6,194 ft (1,888 m) above sea level, on the left bank of the Ro de Aguascalientes. Founded as a mining settlement in 1575 and designated a town in 1661, Aguascalientes was named capital when the state was created during the 1850s. It is sometimes called La Ciudad Perforada (The Perforated City) because of a labyrinth of tunnels excavated beneath it in pre-Columbian times by an unknown tribe. Aquascalientes is the centre of a fruit- and vegetable-growing region. It has important railroad repair shops, cotton and other textile factories, potteries, tobacco factories, distilleries, and other industries. The most notable of the city's many fine churches are San Juan de Dios, San Francisco, and La Parroquia, each of which possesses outstanding examples of colonial religious art. The city can be reached by rail, highway, or air. The Autonomous University of Aguascalientes was founded in 1973. Pop. (1980) 233,000.