Aguascalientes is the capital city of the Mexican state of Aguascalientes. The city is located in the center-south of the state, in the valley that also bears its name. It is part of the Bajío macro region. It was part of the kingdom of Nueva Galicia, during independence it was part of Zacatecas and in 1835 it became the Capital of the Free and Sovereign State of Aguascalientes. At the end of 2012, the metropolis reached 1 million inhabitants. According to 2010 figures it is the fourteenth largest metropolitan area in Mexico. The city enjoys great international prestige for being the cleanest city in the country and in Latin America. The city has shown surprising economic growth in recent decades. Its human development, per capita income and quality of life indices are among the highest in Latin America. The city is recognized for its transparent government where there is little or no corruption, it is also recognized for its efficient public administration, adn its territorial ordering, since it is the only city in Latin America with three peripheral rings. It is also one of the safest cities in the country. Aguascalientes is known for its textiles, electronics and automotive industry, as well for the National Fair of San Marcos. Due to its tourist attractions, large numbers of international visitors are welcomed, mainly from the United States, Spain, Japan, France and Argentina. Find the best boutique hotels here!