Aguascalientes (ä´gwäskälyān´tās, ä´wäs–) [Span.,=hot waters], state (1990 pop. 719,659), 2,007 sq mi (5,200 sq km), central Mexico, on the Anáhuac plateau. Aguascalientes is the capital. Cattle are raised on the wide plains and in the foothills; alfalfa, corn, wheat, chilies, and peaches are grown; and wine and brandy are produced. There is some mining in the mountainous areas, especially for silver and zinc. Aguascalientes is noted for its warm mineral springs and for its beautiful climate.

Aguascalientes, city (1990 pop. 455,234), capital of Aguascalientes state, central Mexico. The city is a pleasant health resort, noted for its mineral waters and vineyards. Its industries include railroad repair and the manufacture of textiles. Aguascalientes is built over an ancient, intricate system of tunnels constructed by early, still unidentified, inhabitants. Founded in 1575, the city was long a Spanish outpost; railroad development in the late 19th cent. gave it commercial importance.