El Triunfo is a small mining town 45 minutes from Todos Santos. In 1862, silver and gold were discovered in the southern B.C.S. mountains, leading miners from Mexico and the United States to set up camp. Once the largest city in B.C.S, it was home to more than 10,000 miners.
Pianos and other instruments were brought to El Triunfo from all over the world and a piano museum still exists. Another remnant of the past is the 35-meter-high smokestack designed by Gustav Eiffel. The mines shut down in 1926 and most people left. The 2010 census reported a population of 321 inhabitants.
Recently folks with the heart to restore and the muscle and determination to do something about it restored and opened Caffe Triunfo. This an excellent option for a meal while you explore this cool town. They and others are in the process of restoring several of the other old buildings and converting them to restaurants, museums, boutiques, etc. in an effort to attract tourism.
The friendly locals are all smiles and are delighted to see the improvements in the town. This beautiful mountain town is at an elevation of 1,585 and feels like it is lost in time. You still see Caballero’s riding horses.
So after we explored the sights and ate a great meal we were ready for our ride back to Todos Santos. On your next trip to Baja be sure to add a day trip to El Triunfo, you will love it.
