The Saucedo Theater in Puerto Vallarta, a cultural and architectural legacy

The Old Saucedo Theater, built between 1921 and 1922 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is an iconic building that has witnessed numerous cultural and social events over the years. Designed by Italian architect Angelo Corsi for businessman Juan Saucedo, this French Belle Époque style building became the city’s cultural center par excellence.

As a representative of the Lanzagorta House, a Spanish business in this storied port of Nayarit, Mr. Saucedo came to Puerto Vallarta from San Blas in 1889. It is said that he was a hardworking man who amassed wealth by investing in building houses. He later took charge of the agency of some ships, set up a small store in front of the small square, very close to the sea, and served as a delegate of the Commissariat of Las Peñas in 1910 and 1911. Later during the Mexican Revolution he was forced to leave the area and settle in Guadalajara.

The Saucedo Theatre was one of the first two-story structures in the fledgling town, but it wasn’t without problems. In 1925, a hurricane that rocked Puerto Vallarta seriously damaged the building’s façade. Despite some damage to the building, the French architectural design was mostly unaltered.

Controversy over modifications to the Saucedo Theater

Even though the structure has mostly retained its architectural character, several internal alterations have generated debate. Before the new Municipal Palace was built, mayors presided over civic parades from the balcony of what was once the Gutierrez brothers’ store on the first floor and a hotel on the upper floors.

Numerous adjustments have been made throughout time. At present, it is used as a fabric store. The decision has drawn criticism from people who wanted to keep the structure in its original condition because its splendor can no longer be seen from the inside.

The Puerto Vallarta Old Saucedo Theater is a structure that reflects the history and culture of the city. It still stands as a silent witness, and because of its beauty and significance from an architectural standpoint, it is a must-visit tourist attraction for people who want to learn more about the city’s extensive past.

It was once regarded as one of Puerto Vallarta’s most opulent structures. Leaders from the municipal and federal governments attended the gatherings there. Thanks to its own power plant, it was also the first structure in the city to have a steady supply of electricity.

It has held a variety of social and cultural events for decades. This edifice served as the setting for a great number of significant occasions in the history of the city, including plays, civic celebrations, parties, and silent films. It even had a casino and billiards on the second floor, making it a complete entertainment hub. The Treasury Office was once located on the first floor.

The Saucedo Theater endured severe damage during the Cristero War. The majority of the furnishings was destroyed when the building’s first floor was transformed into a stable to accommodate the military. However, after the conflict was resolved, it was brought back to its former beauty.

The Old Saucedo Theater is still a representation of elegance and charm in Puerto Vallarta despite the controversies. Even if its interiors have changed and it no longer holds the same celebrations and events, its commanding presence and captivating past still draw tourists and the curious.