Azufral

Azufral is a municipality in the Mexican state of Querétaro, situated in the central part of the country. It covers an area of approximately 600 square kilometers and had a population of around 4,500 residents according to the 2020 national census. The municipal seat, the town of Azufral, lies at an elevation of roughly 1,800 meters above sea level and is connected to larger urban centers by road links that lead to the state capital of Querétaro.

The name “Azufral” derives from the Spanish word for sulfur, reflecting the small-scale mining of this mineral that once occurred in the area during the early 20th century. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples of the Otomi and Huastec groups before being colonized by the Spanish. Officially established as a municipality in the mid‑20th century, Azufral has retained a largely rural character, with its economy centered on agriculture, livestock, and the remnants of past mining activity.

Agriculture in Azufral focuses on staple crops such as corn and beans, as well as agave cultivation for local mezcal production. Cattle and sheep ranching also contribute to the local economy. Although large-scale sulfur mining declined several decades ago, the associated infrastructure remains and is sometimes visited by those interested in the region’s mining heritage. The municipality promotes eco‑tourism, highlighting its semi‑arid landscapes, historic buildings, and proximity to the Sierra Gorda biodiversity hotspot.

Culturally, Azufral celebrates a patron saint festival each year in late September, featuring traditional music, dance, and a market that showcases regional crafts and foods. Public services include elementary and secondary schools, a community health clinic, and basic municipal administrative offices that oversee local development projects and maintain roadways. The municipality’s location within the Sierra Gorda area also places it within a broader effort to protect ecological diversity while supporting sustainable rural livelihoods.