Plaza de la Tortuga

In the heart of the dynamic city of Torreón lies a charming corner of tranquility — Plaza de la Tortuga (Turtle Square). This public space has become a true landmark of the state of Coahuila in Mexico. The main feature of the square is its central element — a turtle sculpture, which gave the place its name and has become a favorite photo spot for both locals and tourists alike.

The square is a well-maintained green zone, perfectly integrated into the urban landscape. Thanks to its high rating among visitors, it is considered one of the most welcoming spots in the city. It boasts a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to momentarily forget the hustle and bustle of the industrial center.

Located in the prestigious Torreón Jardín district, the square serves not only as a recreation area but also as an important cultural landmark. This space, open 24/7, attracts people with its simplicity and originality, proving that even a small urban detail can become a significant symbol of regional character.

For more details or to organize group visits, you can use the administration's contact information. Although it is a public space, the square has a registered contact phone number.

Visiting Plaza de la Tortuga is primarily an opportunity to slow down and observe the leisurely pace of life in Torreón. The main ritual for every guest remains a photo session by the famous turtle sculpture. Depending on the time of day, the lighting changes the appearance of the square: during the day, you can take shelter in the pleasant shade of the trees, and in the evening, enjoy the soft illumination that gives the place a romantic flair.

For outdoor enthusiasts, this space is suitable for morning jogs or open-air yoga sessions. Families with children often choose the square for walks, as the open spaces allow little ones to play safely. You can also have a small picnic on the grass, having first bought traditional Mexican snacks from street vendors often found nearby.

Don't miss the chance to discover the gastronomy of the Comarca Lagunera region. Near the square, you can find stalls with fresh fruit, try authentic tacos, or refresh yourself with traditional drinks. Interacting with locals who come here to socialize will add sincerity to your trip and allow you to better understand the culture of this part of Mexico.

Getting to this cozy corner is easy, as it is located in a lively part of the city. Plaza de la Tortuga is located at Av. Laguna Nte, Blvrd Revolución 1416B. If you are arriving at Torreón International Airport (TRC), the most convenient way is to order a taxi or use the Uber service. The ride will take about 20–30 minutes and cost approximately 200–400 pesos.

For those who prefer public transport, buses and shuttles running along Blvrd Revolución are a great option. They stop in the immediate vicinity of the square. If you are in the center or near the railway station, a walk of 1–2 kilometers will allow you to better experience the local atmosphere.

Travelers by car can use the coordinates 25.5351429, -103.430638. Parking spaces are usually available on the adjacent streets of the Torreón Jardín neighborhood; however, the traffic density on Boulevard Revolución during peak hours should be taken into account.

The history of the site where Plaza de la Tortuga stands today is inextricably linked to the rapid development of the city itself. Torreón began its journey in the mid-19th century when Leonardo Zuloaga Olivares laid the foundations of a hacienda here and built the first watchtower — the very "torreón" that gave the future metropolis its name.

A key moment in the region's development was the laying of the railway in 1883. This transformed the modest settlement into a powerful transport hub and the "cotton capital" of Mexico. During this period, the city grew actively, attracting migrants from all over the world — from Spain to China — which was reflected in its unique architectural appearance and the layout of its public spaces.

Plaza de la Tortuga itself emerged as a result of Torreón's modern urbanization. It became a symbol of how an industrial city creates spaces for the soul and relaxation of its residents. The central turtle sculpture is not just a decoration, but a kind of talisman adding a touch of warmth to the strict geometry of the city's boulevards.

When planning a visit to Plaza de la Tortuga, you don't need to set aside too much time unless you plan on having a full picnic. For a standard introductory tour, 30–60 minutes is quite enough. This time is sufficient to see the central sculpture, take a few memorable photos, and enjoy the park's atmosphere.

If you decide to combine your visit with a walk through the shady streets of the Torreón Jardín neighborhood or plan to grab a bite at one of the local cafes, it's worth budgeting about an hour and a half. This place is perfect for a short break in a busy tourist itinerary through Torreón.

One of the main advantages of Plaza de la Tortuga is its accessibility. It is open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can stop by at dawn for an invigorating walk or late at night to see the square by lamplight.

Weekly schedule:

• Monday — Sunday: 24 hours a day

Exploring the surroundings of Plaza de la Tortuga will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and see its different facets. The Torreón Jardín district is famous for its interesting sites, many of which are within walking distance or a short drive away.

Interestingly, several places related to the aquatic world and exotic animals are concentrated nearby, harmoniously complementing the "turtle" theme of the square itself.