North of Guadalajara, Aguascalientes has belonged to the Kingdom of Nueva Galicia since 1535. It was a stopping place for travelers on the silver route during the 18th century. Many of the Baroque buildings from this period still remain; the most interesting are the temples of Guadalupe, Encino, San Marcos, San Diego and San José de la Merced; also worth visiting are the Government and municipal palaces, the House of Culture and Excedra, and the Ionian column marking the center of Mexico. The Feria de san Marcos Fair is held in the town annually.