Blank stares are the most frequent response when mentioning Guanajuato City to Americans and Canadians visiting Mexico.
Photo: Erik Tellez
Guanajuato City – Mexico’s Richest City
For Real! The reasons are easy to place. It’s not Mexico City or a beach destination. Guanajuato City has no Mayan Pyramids or Aztec Ruins.
What Guanajuato does have is a phenomenally rich, nearly 500-year history in a perfectly preserved colonial city.
Guanajuato is often compared to Toledo in Castilla-La Mancha, España. This is a very fair comparison. Let’s say you magically appeared in either Toledo, España, or Guanajuato, you would have difficulty telling them apart. Both are historical, set on a hill, and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here’s a hint: Toledo has more tourist shops and a river surrounding three sides of the city. In Guanajuato, engineers re-routed the river deep underground.
Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha, España (Photo: Des Mc Carthy)
While Toledo’s history predates medieval times, Guanajuato’s colonial beginnings date back to the 1540s, when the Spanish found gold. During the pre-Hispanic period, Aztecs also mention the region for its gold and silver. The name Guanajuato comes from indigenous Purépecha people meaning Frog Hill.
By the 18th century, Guanajuato was the richest and most opulent city in New Spain. The silver, sent to Spain aboard galleons, funded the Spanish government for decades. For over 250 Years, mines in Guanajuato produced over 30% of the world’s silver.
Why you should visit Guanajuato
One could go on and on about the history of the city and its importance in the Mexican Revolution. Let’s focus on why you should visit the city on your next trip to Mexico.
Guanajuato is best enjoyed on foot. Day or night, the city is safe and alive with people enjoying dining, music, theatre, and even spontaneous callejoneadas. Roughly translated means alleyway party.
Guanajuato is a major university town. Students from all over the world study at Universidad Guanajuato. It’s easily recognizable by its distinctive stairsteps.
A callejeando in Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico during the International Cervantino Festival.
The University also helped create its strong connection to Miguel de Cervantes, writer of Don Quixote. Since then, Guanajuato holds an annual International Festival of Cervantes during the last three weeks of October. Don’t miss The festival since it draws performers and visitors from all over the world. Though Miguel de Cervantes never visited Guanajuato, a world-class museum bears his name and is worth visiting.
Speaking of museums, one must visit several museums in the city. Museo de Mumias (Mummy Museum) features naturally preserved mummies on display.
Strolling through Guanajuato City
A Mexican version of Romeo and Juliet played out at the ‘Callejón del Beso’ or alley of the kiss. The players in Mexico are named Doña Carmen and Don Luis. The story is very romantic until the father stabs his daughter, Carmen. This happens because he discovers Luis secretly meets with her despite his demands that she doesn’t. As life was draining from her, Luis held and kissed the hand of Carmen. The third step from the bottom has a legend. Kiss your partner on this step, conveniently painted red. Doing so guarantees you both seven years of happiness together. What happens after seven years? Just make sure to revisit Guanajuato before the time is up.
One of Mexico’s most important people was born in Guanajuato. Mexico’s most famous artist, Diego Rivera called Guanajuato home for many years. Today, you can visit the “Museo Casa Diego Rivera” and see several paintings on display. There are even sketches from Frida Khalo, his on-again, off-again wife.
The Teatro Juarez is a grand fine arts palace named after Mexican President Benito Juarez. Juarez is considered by many to be Mexico’s greatest president.
The Alhóndiga de Granaditas is also a must-see. It’s the site of the first battle of Mexican Independence. Originally built to store a year’s grain supply for the city, it later housed the silver before transport to Spain.
Mine tours are also available in and around the city. They are worth a visit and help set the stage for a historical understanding of the city.
If Baroque architecture is your fancy, you’ll see plenty of it in Guanajuato City. The Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato features this style. So does the Casa Real de Ensaye and the Templo de Valenciano.
When to visit Guanajuato City
Guanajuato City is enjoyable all year long. Its high elevation keeps it temperate and pleasant, even in summer. If you can make it in October for the Cervantino Festival, then the magic is unleashed in grand fashion.
Summary
There is no bad time to go to Guanajuato but there certainly is the ‘Best’ time to go. Guanajuato is about a day and a half south of Mc Allen, Tx. Alternatively, if you fly into CDMX, it’s a four-hour car drive from Mexico City.
Learn more about Guanajuato and discover opportunities to learn Spanish at the same time with Spanish and Go. Jim and May are a Gringo/Mexican couple. Join them as they explore beautiful destinations, share travel tips, and teach you Spanish.
People are often surprised that Mexico is more than beaches.
Story by Jim Foreman
When someone mentions Mexico, the first vision that comes to mind for most people is the incredible beaches.
It’s true! Mexico has some of the planet’s best and most idyllic beaches. From the “Air-Conditioned” sand of Cancun to the perfect year-round weather of Ensenada, it takes no effort to imagine your favorite.
hanging out at the beach in Cancun
Curiously, many travelers to Mexico don’t know about the country.
So, you may ask, “OK, where else should I go in Mexico?” The answer largely depends on what you like to do.
Off-Road Antics
Each year, the USA restricts more land for off-highway use. Unfortunately, misguided policies driven by feelings rather than facts or reality have led to the closures of many popular US-based off-highway trails.
Fortunately, Baja California has many thousands of square miles off-highway roads to roam. So whether one is a casual explorer or a die-hard rock crawler, the entire length of Baja, both north and south, is your playground. Remember you need a Mexican car insurance policy for on-road travel, but it won’t protect you off-road.
Temples of the Cross Group at Mayan ruins of Palenque – Chiapas, Mexico
Fortunately, many of these sights are easy and rewarding to experience. Most visitors can quickly name the Mayan pyramid of Chichen Itza in Yucatan. The peninsula is also home to many sites, including Tulum, on the coast. Lesser-known sites, including Coba, Palenque, Calakmul, Edzna, and Ek Balam, also are worth visiting. Many people wrongly believe Mayans to be wiped out. Though the empire is long gone, over seven million people live by the traditions and speak the Mayan language. These sites can be easily reached by car or a tour group. Going on your own is much better than arriving in hordes with dozens of other coach buses full of visitors for the more popular sites.
Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacan, Mexico. Teotihuacan is the biggest pre-Columbian archaeological site in North America.
Aztec Archeology
If Aztec history is more to your liking, look no further than Mexico City. The Capitol is built on top of the ruins that once formed part of the principal Aztec city, Tenochtitlan. The ruins are easily accessible and must be visited. Templo Mayor is found adjacent to the zocalo in the Capitol and is a memorable visit. Just outside of Mexico City, you can experience Teotihuacan. It’s the most important pre-Columbian site in North America. Tenayuca, located in San Bartolo, also shouldn’t be missed. Discovered in 1925, the name translates to Walled Place.
Though much smaller, another important Aztec destination is Tepozteco, located in Morelos. The site features a temple dedicated to the god of Pulque. Pulque, you might ask, is an alcoholic drink made from the fermented sap of the maguey plant. The glass features a milky unfiltered consistency with a taste of sour yeast and is making a surprising comeback in many parts of Mexico.
Guachimontones – Round pyramids in Teuchitlan Jalisco Mexico
If you’re looking for a site off the beaten path, visit Los Guachimontones, about 25 miles east of Guadalajara. These pyramids are unique as they are round. Except for a small pyramid in Mexico City, these are the only known round pyramids in the world. This site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with outstanding interpreters who offer insight and a glimpse into the lives of those living here two thousand years ago.
Destinations Aplenty
Mexico remains a vibrant destination whether you choose an off-road, colonial, archeological, or beach trip. It is straightforward to travel on your own by driving, so long as you adhere to sensible safety guidelines and purchase quality Mexican car insurance. Some simple rules include not traveling at night or straying off into unknown regions without an invitation or recommendation. Travel with respect and an open mind. Keep all this in mind, and you will have a rewarding and memorable experience.
Rio Tampaon and Tamul waterfalls in the Huasteca Potosina, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Jim Foreman is the owner and operator of Authentic Moto Travels. He leads groups of riders throughout all Mexico on Motorcycles. Annually, Jim travels over 20,000Km throughout Mexico. Jim also writes travel articles for numerous magazines and online publications worldwide, including Mexican car insurance policy recommendations for those driving in Mexico.
A dirt road through the middle of Baja, Mexico.
You can follow the trail of either the Baja 1000 or Baja 500 or base yourself in a town for day trips. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a dirt bike, quad, SxS, adventure bike, 4×4 truck, or desert racer; there is something for you.
Some favorite destinations for off-road travel include San Felipe, San Quentin (Old Mill), El Rosario (Mama Espinoza’s), Cataviña, Camalu, San Ignacio, or any of the dozens of destinations that off-roaders call heaven.
If your idea of Off-Road is hiking or mountain biking, “Parque Nacional Constitucion de 1857,” due east of Ensenada, is a beautiful destination. Further south, “Parque Nacional Sierra de San Pedro Martir” offers stunning landscapes and spectacular vistas.
Regardless of your adventure, Baja is safe, fun, pristine, and open.
Visit New Spain’s Colonial Cities
Many people based in the western United States think places dating back to the 1800s are old. However, in Mexico, many cities date to the early 1600s and even earlier. These older buildings are due to Spain colonizing Mexico. Therefore, visiting one of these wonderfully preserved colonial cities is like taking a visit to Spain.
Cityscape of Guanajuato city during the blue hour with the famous orange Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato, Mexico.
Guanajuato
Founded in 1559, the city of Guanajuato was New Spain’s second most important city. It is notable for its beauty, history, universities, culture, and Don Quixote. Though Miguel Cervantes never crossed the Atlantic to the new world, he would have felt right at home in Guanajuato. Guanajuato is often and accurately compared to the city of Toledo in Spain. Guanajuato widely celebrates the Spanish author Cervantes. The city hosts a three-week Festival Internacional Cervantino celebrated throughout most of October. Guanajuato is also Mexico’s most acclaimed artist, Diego Rivera’s birthplace.
Guanajuato is very walkable, with sights and history around every corner. Spend several days in Guanajuato. No matter how long you stay, it won’t be enough.
A Mexican car insurance policy from Mexican Insurance Store comes with roadside assistance at no additional charge.
Zacatecas
Another delightful city to visit is Zacatecas. This historic mining town is lovely and fun-filled and covered with a natural feature called La Bufa. Zacatecas was a key silver mining city in New Spain. Today, one should visit sections of the Roman-style aqueduct and Mexico’s first bull-fighting ring. Although no longer used for bullfights, the arena hosts essential public and private functions.
Aerial view of Zacatecas with the Bullring and Viaduct
At the top of La Bufa is a spectacular view of the city, along with a giant statue of Poncho Villa. A convent sits at the top along with the boarding location for the Teleferrico. The Teleferrico is a cable car that runs from the top of La Bufa to the city center and the mining museum.
A Callenjoneadas is making its way through the Zacatecas Centro. Photo by: Jim Foreman
Zacatecas also features a unique and wonderful celebration known as Callejoneadas. The Callejoneadas are a walking parade during the evening led by a loud and festive band. People join in the parade with little clay cups to enjoy a shot of cheap mescal along the way. These parades end at different locations throughout the Centro. Sometimes a private event, but more often, it’s in one of the many plazas with music, food, and drinks on hand. These traditional parades happen every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening.
Cityscape of Queretaro city at night with its famous Viaduct
Querétaro
Querétaro makes up a trifecta of spectacular colonial cities. Most people unfamiliar with the pronunciation get the name wrong. (pronounced Keh-REH-tah-row) Always look for the accent mark.
Querétaro is Mexico’s second most prosperous city, following Monterrey. Officially known as Santiago de Querétaro, the town is the gateway to the Sierra Gorda mountains. It’s also home to many of the top universities in Mexico. Loaded with culture, beauty, and history, the opportunity to visit is a priority. A favorite place for locals and visitors alike is the Plaza de Armas. Many of the best restaurants and bars are located here.
During the day, a stroll through the many city gardens offers a safe tree-covered break from a day’s activities.
Mexico has dozens of fantastic colonial cities. Highlighted here are three of the best examples.
Pre-Historic Wonders
Chichen Itza is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico.
Mexico is also home to many pre-colonial and pre-historic wonders. Most people know that Mexico was the home to the mighty Aztec and Mayan peoples. Beyond these two nations, hundreds of indigenous cultures thrived in Mexico. We know this from the countless ruins left to us and those discovered all the time.
Mayan Archeology
Temples of the Cross Group at Mayan ruins of Palenque – Chiapas, Mexico
Fortunately, many of these sights are easy and rewarding to experience. Most visitors can quickly name the Mayan pyramid of Chichen Itza in Yucatan. The peninsula is also home to many sites, including Tulum, on the coast. Lesser-known sites, including Coba, Palenque, Calakmul, Edzna, and Ek Balam, also are worth visiting. Many people wrongly believe Mayans to be wiped out. Though the empire is long gone, over seven million people live by the traditions and speak the Mayan language. These sites can be easily reached by car or a tour group. Going on your own is much better than arriving in hordes with dozens of other coach buses full of visitors for the more popular sites.
Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacan, Mexico. Teotihuacan is the biggest pre-Columbian archaeological site in North America.
Aztec Archeology
If Aztec history is more to your liking, look no further than Mexico City. The Capitol is built on top of the ruins that once formed part of the principal Aztec city, Tenochtitlan. The ruins are easily accessible and must be visited. Templo Mayor is found adjacent to the zocalo in the Capitol and is a memorable visit. Just outside of Mexico City, you can experience Teotihuacan. It’s the most important pre-Columbian site in North America. Tenayuca, located in San Bartolo, also shouldn’t be missed. Discovered in 1925, the name translates to Walled Place.
Though much smaller, another important Aztec destination is Tepozteco, located in Morelos. The site features a temple dedicated to the god of Pulque. Pulque, you might ask, is an alcoholic drink made from the fermented sap of the maguey plant. The glass features a milky unfiltered consistency with a taste of sour yeast and is making a surprising comeback in many parts of Mexico.
Guachimontones – Round pyramids in Teuchitlan Jalisco Mexico
If you’re looking for a site off the beaten path, visit Los Guachimontones, about 25 miles east of Guadalajara. These pyramids are unique as they are round. Except for a small pyramid in Mexico City, these are the only known round pyramids in the world. This site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with outstanding interpreters who offer insight and a glimpse into the lives of those living here two thousand years ago.
Destinations Aplenty
Mexico remains a vibrant destination whether you choose an off-road, colonial, archeological, or beach trip. It is straightforward to travel on your own by driving, so long as you adhere to sensible safety guidelines and purchase quality Mexican car insurance. Some simple rules include not traveling at night or straying off into unknown regions without an invitation or recommendation. Travel with respect and an open mind. Keep all this in mind, and you will have a rewarding and memorable experience.
Rio Tampaon and Tamul waterfalls in the Huasteca Potosina, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Jim Foreman is the owner and operator of Authentic Moto Travels. He leads groups of riders throughout all Mexico on Motorcycles. Annually, Jim travels over 20,000Km throughout Mexico. Jim also writes travel articles for numerous magazines and online publications worldwide, including Mexican car insurance policy recommendations for those driving in Mexico.
