CITY OF GUANAJUATO
Cultural Patrimony of the humanity
Guanajuato, founded in 1557, is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico and even in America. Settled in a mining valley, the Capital is surpassing the surrounding mounts, and offers an irregular and picturesque sightseeing. With its colonial architecture and narrow streets paved with stone, it is not surprising that Guanajuato was declared Cultural Patrimony of humanity by UNESCO in 1988. The city is animated with diurnal and nocturnal activity in its numerous restaurants offering regional and international gastronomy, and many bars and discos. Guanajuato also has great hotels for any budget and numerous tourism services. Its antique look and important cultural life makes it one of the most pleasant destinations for national and international travelers.
The Union Square (Jardín Unión)
Guanajuato's downtown with its Union Square is an animated and enoyable spot. It is the ideal place to have a dinner outside, listen to traditionnal music, buy artcrafts or just taking a relaxing walk.
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato
Built in XVII century, its architecture mixes elements from diferent styles such as baroque, neoclassic and churrigueresco.
San Diego Temple
Located in downtown, this temple was built in XVIII century and shows a well detailed front side.
Juarez theater (Teatro Juárez)
Juarez theater is one of the architectural jewels of Guanajuato. It is as beautiful inside as outside, and it is crowned by 8 bronze statues representing the muses of greek mythology. The theater usually presents varied shows of local and international artists, concerts etc.
The Kiss Alley (Callejón del Beso)
In Guanajuato, the alleys are so narrow that it seems the buildings join above our heads. This condition is the origin of the Kiss Alley legend which the inhabitants will be glad to tell you. People also say you will have an eternal love if you and your mate kiss each other on the third step of this alley.
San Roque temple
In front of this temple was born the famous Festival Internacional Cervantino of Guanajuato. More than 60 years ago, a group of students performed short Cervantes's plays and with the time it evolved to the Cervantino. The festival takes place every year in octuber and presents numerous spectacles in many public places to visitors from the entire world.
La Alhóndiga de Granaditas
In this antique granary took place an important episode of the Independence War. In september of 1810, the Insurgents entered where the Spaniards were refugee. The victory was possible thanks to Juan Jose de los Reyes, called El Pípila, who put on fire the builtding's door. One year later, the heads of four Independence leaders were exposed in its four courners.
The Hidalgo Market
This market is known for its architectural desing and for offering the opportunity of buying typical artcrafts and candies. Take the opportunity to interact with the owners and support the local economy.
The imposing University of Guanajuato
Pipila's Monument
From the base of this monument in honor of one of the Independence heroes, you can admire one of the most impressing panoramas in the country. Also, you can buy artcrafts from the many boutiques located there. The access to this view can be reached by cable car or walking for the hilly allies if you are in good physical condition.
Panorama of Guanajuato
The tunnels
One of the caracteristics that makes Guanajuato a singular city is its underground streets system.
The mines
Guanajuato, was a mining city in the past. It is possible to visit some of these mines. Two of them are La Valenciana and Mineral de Rayas.
Museums
Museo Iconográfico De El Quijote: A collection of pieces in relation with the famous Cervantes's characters, Don Quijote and Sancho Panza.
Museo Regional de Guanajuato: All about the history of Guanajuato. Located in the Alhóndiga's builtding.
Museo de las Momias: More than 100 mummies conserved by the cemetery ground in which they were burried. You can see mummies of men, women, babies, etc.
Museo Casa Diego Rivera (photo): It is the house where was born and raised the famous painter Diego Rivera. You can see some of his works and also know how a house of those times was.
Museo del Pueblo de Guanajuato: A collection of VXIII and XIX centuries works.
Museo de Mineralogia: A diversity of minerals exposed.