Visit Guanajuato one of the most important colonial cities in Mexico and a true colonial Jewel
Patrimonial histories, enriching culture, and spectacular architecture are just some of the elements that make Guanajuato a unique place for learning about Mexico’s legacy.
In other words, Guanajuato has an exceptional richness: A place where art, history, nature, and culture go together, shaping one of the most fascinating states in Mexico. Cities like San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato are the favorite destinations for national and international tourists. But, there are so many other resources and destinies Guanajuato has to offer.
Reasons to visit.
- Guanajuato is one of the most important settings of Mexican history, events of one of the most essential and representative movements, left an incredible scenario full of museums, theatres, monuments, and markets.
- Popular as a gastronomic destination for its typical delicious candies such as strawberries from Irapuato, Cajeta from Celaya, and artisanal sorbet from Dolores Hidalgo.
- Its annual International Arts Festival Cervantino, in honor of Miguel Cervantes Saavedra, author of Don Quijote de la Mancha, has become an opened space for cultural exchange.
Destinations
Guanajuato City
Situated in a picturesque valley, in the heart of Mexico, Guanajuato is definitely one of Mexico’s most charming colonial cities.
It was founded in 1559 as a mining town. The “Valenciana” mine was a rich source of silver, and it became one of the richest and most productive mines in the world during the 18th century. Nowadays, you will be surprised by the beauty of this city. It has winding lanes, its plazuelas shaded by Indian laurels, its large variety of decorative styles, its Mummy Museum, and its curious underground avenue. With its history as an important mining center, it derived great wealth from its abundant silver deposits. The city is a real jewel among Mexico’s colonial towns. Besides that, the city is full of old legends. Best known is probably the one of the “Callejon del Beso” (Alley of the Kiss).
Downtown is full of tiny streets that make walking through the city an unbelievable experience; driving around might be confusing, so you need to be prepared to walk around in this delighting city.
San Miguel de Allende
Declared UNESCO World Heritage, this city shows the fancy side of Guanajuato state. Its bright Downtown will make you feel in a dream. It offers all kinds of high-class establishments such as restaurants, hotels, boutiques. Not to mention countless galleries offering the best variety of handmade craft from Mexico.
Also famous for its neo-gothic style: “Parish of San Miguel,” the iconic church with the pink, sugar-candy pointing towers waits for you. These bizarre towers were designed by an untutored Indian, Zeferino Gutierrez, in the late 19th century. The indigenous people of Pátzcuaro made an image made from corn stalks and orchid bulbs. You can find it in the main chapel.
You can have a good time in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato and other amazing places in Mexico in our tour: 6-day Colonial Jewels of Mexico
Dolores Hidalgo
Small town, where Miguel Hidalgo, father of Mexico, delivered his famous “Grito de Dolores” (Cry for Independence). This cry symbolizes the start of the Mexican independence movement in the early nineteenth century. This relaxed town shows a fantastic picture of Colonial architecture with its big houses and ranches that will make the experience of visiting this town unforgettable. All kinds of crafts can be found in Dolores; nevertheless, the most representative ones are pottery and Talavera.
Salvatierra
Small colonial village decorated by its calmed river, wood parks and plazas, big colonial “casonas” and churches. While visiting this town, don’t forget to stopover the remarkable Capuchinas’ convent-fortress dated from the XVII century.
Salvatierra has its characteristic handmade crafts: embroidered tablecloth and napkins.
Yuriria
This Pueblo Magico takes part in Mexico’s religious route thanks to its beautiful churches and convents.
Yuriria is a native word that means “Blood Lake,” making reference to an extinct crater that made its lagoon water turn into red color where extraordinary religious constructions dated from XVI and XVIII centuries especially Saint Agustin’s old convent. This impressive construction looks like a medieval fortress on the lagoon’s edge, creating an incredible photographic frame.
Irapuato
Irapuato’s main activity is strawberry harvest, you will find loads of candies made with this fruit. These delicious bites deserve your attention on your visit to this delightful town.
Don’t forget to visit its gardens, plazas, and markets that will take you to colonial times. At sunset, dancing fountains create a fascinating spectacle where lights and music lead the way.
Celaya
Located in Guanajuato’s south-eastern; this Mexican’s revolution battle setting is also called “Bajio’s golden gate,” thanks to its last year’s development. Today, it has turned into an industrial and mercantile city without dismissing its touristic points.
In Celaya, you can go walk over Downtown and visit its Cathedral; at the same time, you can enjoy tasting its delicious traditional candies, including its famous Cajeta(traditional milky caramel).
After that, on the night, dare you to explore the spooky experience of visiting Celaya’s own mummy museum and cemetery on an incredible night tour discovering thrilling stories and legends.
Leon
Celaya is an excellent place for shopping addicts. Producing leather is one of its strengths, that’s why you will find shoes, belts, jackets and other accessories.
Leon has its particularly exciting points like the Metropolitan park, where International Balloon Fair takes place: Old Hacienda ruins and a high number of bird species create a perfect scene for zip-line, train, and boat rides.
Festivals and International Events in Guanajuato
Cervantino
In October, for two weeks, there is a presentation of works of music, dance and theater from around the world. This festival was born as a tribute to Miguel de Cervantes made by university students. Over time, it has grown to become one of the most famous art festivals.
Callejoneadas
Through the years, this joyful tradition made a romantic and magical environment, which has become an attractive touristic activity. Have a walk through Guanajuato’s beautiful streets and alleys participating along the famous “estudiantinas” singing representative serenade songs.
Balloon Festival
Performed in Leon City, definitely one of the most beautiful and spectacular events in Mexico and Latin America. In this incredible event, you can enjoy more than 200 hot air balloons, unique gastronomy, music, games, and camps. All this makes this festival one of the favorites.
