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Naolinco de Victoria is a tiny Veracruz town some half an hour north of the state capital at Xalapa. Like much of Veracruz, Naolinco is often shrouded in fog, and summer months can see a lot of rain. But downpours seem to fuel the color on which the town thrives. People are as likely to show up for the breathtaking views of the waterfalls, as for walks in the historic center. T

The town is perhaps most famous for the well preserved buildings that make up most of the town center. These are connected by charming cobble stone streets and painted in colors that need to be seen to be believed. The San Mateo Apóstol church dates from the 16th century, and its not the only one. The two streets of Dr. Lucio and Nicolás Bravo are the center of the leather trade. Lined with shoe shops that make, they make up just one reason for the fame of the town. The Zapatero monument in the south of town pays homage to the generations who worked in the trade.

Just after the monument, the Mirador Park gives way to outstanding views of a famous waterfall and this part of the Sierra Madre. Adjacent to the lookout, there\'s everything you need for a day of outdoors. The very height of the cliffs and overlooks is breathtaking.

Naolinco is also a famous food town. The pork sausages are well regarded in much of Veracruz, with the spiced mole being a favorite accompaniment. Townspeople specialize in white clay ceramics. This is especially true of the people of San Miguel Aguasuelos, some 10 minutes away on the road to Tepetlan. Aguasuelos is worthy of a visit just to see how much of a town can be dedicated just to pottery production. 

Combis are widely available from the center of Xalapa, and most visitors will see at least some of both towns. As a day trip or a weekend getaway from the capital, Naolinco is unbeatable.