Travel Guide GUANAJUATO Contents

DISCOVER GUANAJUATO 01

GUANAJUATO PROFILE 03

GUANAJUATO ATTRACTIONS 04

GUANAJUATO DINING 13

GUANAJUATO SHOPPING 14

GUANAJUATO NIGHTLIFE 15

THINGS TO DO IN GUANAJUATO 17 DISCOVER GUANAJUATO Considered the birthplace of Mexico’s Independence, Guanajuato is a beautiful city that has retained its colonial architecture and deeply rooted traditions. Explore its churches, museums and squares during the day and enjoy an unforgettable party atmosphere at night. People from all over Mexico and the world come here to live, creating a bohemian and cosmopolitan atmosphere with a youthful vibe that is popular with exchange students. With its cobbled streets, narrow alleys and numerous historic monuments, Guanajuato is one of the Mexican destinations that have been named a World Heritage Site.

1 A BRIEF HISTORY

The first settlers in the state of Guanajuato were the Purepecha, who were defeated by the Spanish during the conquest in the sixteenth century. The tribe suffered numerous abuses, beginning with the exploitation of their people as they worked in the area’s mines.

The indigenous people and lower caste individuals that made up most of the population lived in extreme poverty and were given no protection as they suffered constant abuse. This social inequality was one of the causes of the War of Independence, initiated on the evening of September 16, 1810 in the city of Dolores. Led by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, insurgents traveled to Guanajuato and eventually defeated the Spanish during the battle of the “Alhondiga de Granaditas”. Years later during the French invasion, the city was the home of President Benito Juarez and became the country’s temporary capital city throughout his itinerant government.

Having survived major struggles throughout Mexico’s history as well as severe flooding in 1905, Guanajuato is now seen as an outstanding cultural destination and should not be missed by tourists vacationing in central Mexico.

2 GUANAJUATO PROFILE

An old mining city that was one of the main producers of silver in the world.

Features buildings and structures of a great historic value.

Has a unique architectural design with tunnels and narrow alleys.

Home to a variety of museums.

Most of the city’s nightlife is made up of casual, bohemian bars.

Hosts the Festival Internacional Cervantino, considered the most important Latin American festival.

3 GUANAJUATO ATTRACTIONS FESTIVAL INTERNACIONAL CERVANTINO

Considered the most important cultural event in Latin America, the Festival International Cervantino takes place each year in October. Throughout the festival, audience members revel in theater and dance performances as well as visual arts and other creative expressions from around the world. Its name comes from the shows performed by university students during the annual “Entremeses de Miguel de Cervantes Saaevedra”, which was gradually added to until it became the cultural event that it is today. REGIONAL MUSEUM OF GUANAJUATO (ALHONDIGA DE GRANADITAS)

Having served as a grain warehouse during the colonial era and known for being the location of the first defeat suffered by the Spaniards during the insurgency, the Alhondiga de Granaditas is an irreplaceable historic site. Today it is home to the Regional Museum of Guanajuato, where you’ll find archeological artifacts, areas devoted to local arts and customs and an exhibition that chronicles the events that took place during the struggle for independence. JUAREZ THEATER

Located next to Union Garden, the Juarez Theater is the starting point of the Callejoneadas and the headquarters of the Cervantino as well as many other cultural events throughout the year. Known for its fine architecture, the building features the muses of the Fine Arts at the top, bronze lions on the steps and columns designed in an ancient Greek style.

4 MUSEO DE LAS MOMIAS (THE MUSEUM OF MUMMIES)

For many years this was a temple and the main cemetery of Guanajuato. The ancient mummies were discovered in 1865 and there are many theories to explain this mystery, as Guanajuato is the only place where this occurs naturally. Currently there are over 100 mummies of men, women and children distributed throughout the museum.

MOUNT CUBILETE CRISTO REY MONUMENT

This beautiful monument was erected by Catholics during the Cristero War to protest against the foreign policy that the Mexican government wished to impose. It is located at the top of Mount Cubilete in Silao, just 15 minutes away from Guanajuato. The sanctuary can be reached by climbing nine miles from the foot to the top of the hill, where you’ll find a modern basilica shaped like a globe situated beneath a majestic 65 foot high statue of Christ.

TEMPLE OF SAN DIEGO DE ALCANTARA

Located near Union Garden, this majestic seventeenth century temple has a pink stone facade that is a classic example of the Mexican Churrigueresque style. Inside is a venerated image of Cristo de Burgos along with an impressive collection of eighteenth century Mexican artwork that is worthy of any European museum.

5 BASILICA OF OUR LADY OF GUANAJUATO

This imposing seventeenth century basilica features an ornate facade and richly ornamented towers and steeples that showcase the famous baroque beauty of the temple. Within the interior are arches decorated with rosettes and the neoclassical main altar that displays an image of Our Lady of Guanajuato.

LA VALENCIANA MINE

A symbol of the city’s colonial splendor, La Valenciana Mine is one of the places that has earned the distinction of being named a Guanajuato Cultural Heritage site. Two-thirds of all of the silver produced in New Spain were extracted from the mine and the Temple of San Cayetano, with its pink stone and baroque facade, was constructed as a tribute to its wealth. While the mine is still operational, the site is now used to educate tourists on how it worked and what equipment was used.

6 PLAZA DE LA PAZ

Considered one of the most significant plazas in the city, this semi-triangular shaped square features a beautiful, centrally located sculpture that was inaugurated by President Porfirio Diaz in 1903. The plaza has been the site of major historical events, including Benito Juarez’ proclamation of Guanajuato as the capital of Mexico and the mining riots against the injustices of the colonial government.

7 CASA DE LAS LEYENDAS MUSEUM

Using small figurines, audiovisual effects and creative recreations of historic events, this museum showcases some of the most famous local legends. During your visit you’ll hear about stories like the Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), La Bufa, the Baratillo and the Pipila, along with other fascinating stories that have been passed down through the years.

PIPILA MONUMENT

One of the best panoramic views of Guanajuato is offered from the Pipila Monument, erected to honor the outstanding hero who participated in the assault on Alhondiga de Granaditas. The site can be reached by the funicular railway located next to the Juarez Theater or via Callejon del Calvario (Calvary Alley) if you wish to make the journey on foot.

8 DIEGO RIVERA HOUSE MUSEUM

The city of Guanajuato proudly exhibits this beautiful eighteenth century house, where one of the most internationally recognized Mexican artists was born, the master Diego Rivera. The museum houses perfectly preserved furniture once used by the Rivera family as well as 100 pieces of his original artwork. One of the largest collections of paintings in the country, the exhibit showcases the various trends and styles that made him so famous.

EL CALLEJON DEL BESO (ALLEY OF THE KISS)

The “Alley of the Kiss” is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Guanajuato. Located near Plazuela de los Angeles, this was the site of a tragic love story between an upper class woman named Ana and a poor miner named Carlos. It is said that the two fell in love against her father’s wishes. So that they could enjoy their romance in secret, Carlos rented the room that was across from his beloved. When the father discovered their secret meetings, he murdered Ana in a blind rage and Carlos’ pain was so great that he ended his own life by jumping into a mine.

9 QUIJOTE ICONOGRAPHIC MUSEUM

Inaugurated in 1987, in the presence of the Mexican and Spanish presidents, as well as the state governor, this tribute to the city of Guanajuato celebrates the iconic author during the Festival Internacional Cervantino. It features an iconographic collection of works donated by Don Eulalio Ferrer of Spain, who amassed an assortment of compositions from around the world that allude to his favorite character.

UNIVERSITY OF GUANAJUATO

The highest seat of learning in the state, the University of Guanajuato is one of the most beautiful buildings in the historic center and has been immortalized on the 1,000 peso banknote. The building is known for its steps and the incredible view of Pipila that can be seen from its highest point.

10 PASEO DE LA PRESA

Completed in 1749, the Olla Dam supplied water to the city and created an incredible panorama. During the Porfiriato, an avenue with French style buildings was constructed, resulting in what is known as the Paseo de La Presa. Today this area is home to the Escuela Normal Superior and other beautiful structures.

CAMPANERO BRIDGE

Located by the Cuesta del Tecolote, this bridge was the entry point for Miguel Hidalgo and the insurgents from the city of Dolores. Just a few yards away from the Cervantes Theater and Embajadoras Park, it currently has several hotels and is one of the most emblematic bridges in the city.

11 THE FORMER SAN GABRIEL DE BARRERA HACIENDA

Located on the road to Marfil, this hacienda is almost five and a half acres in size and is known for its beautiful themed gardens. The chapel features an original altarpiece from the Jaen Cathedral in Spain and the property is decorated with period furnishings and artwork, recreating the atmosphere of the hacienda during its heyday.

GUANAJUATO BICENTENNIAL PARK

To strengthen the sense of national identity and celebrate the 200th anniversary of Mexico’s Independence, the state government opened Guanajuato Bicentennial Park in 2010. Located on the road to Silao, this building houses both permanent and temporary exhibits inspired by various themes. This is also a popular venue for special events like the visit of Pope Benedict XVI and the “Guanajuato Si Sabe” food festival.

12 GUANAJUATO DINING

Guanajuato cuisine has been influenced by other cities located throughout the state, as well as neighboring destinations like Queretaro, San Luis Potosi, Michoacan and Jalisco. Traditionally accompanied by fried potatoes and carrots, enchiladas mineras is the most famous local dish, served in restaurants throughout the city. Just by walking down the street, you’ll find vendors selling pickled pig skin and pigs feet served with a deep fried tortilla. Another tempting option is the “guacamaya”, a roll stuffed with pork rinds and pico de gallo salsa.

As you walk through the streets of Guanajuato, you’ll see both permanent and mobile food stands that sell traditional state desserts. The sweet cajeta de Celaya (caramelized milk) and charamuscas (candy made of milk, nuts and coconut) should not be missed, nor should the strawberries of Irapuato, served naturally, crystallized, covered in chocolate or in jam. Quince cheese and guava rolls are other delicacies you can enjoy during your visit.

Other customary dishes include beef empanadas, tamales filled with pork or cheese andGuanajuato pacholas made from ground meat and spices. San Miguel de Allende style fiambre (cold cut platters) and sugared beet juice are also popular with locals.

13 GUANAJUATO SHOPPING

Located throughout Guanajuato’s historic center are charming establishments that offer silver jewelry, crafts and ceramics from the town of Dolores Hidalgo. Some local shops sell textiles and luxurious pieces made with precious metals, blown glass and other high quality materials.

MERCADO HIDALGO

Originally designed to be the city’s train station, this market is one of the most emblematic buildings in Guanajuato and is recognized by its pink stone facad e and grand four-faced clock designed by Mr. Eiffel, who also built the famous tower in Paris. This two-story market has fruits, vegetables and prepared meals on the first floor, and craft stalls, souvenirs and leather goods on the second.

Inaugurated by Porfirio Diaz as part of the celebrations for Mexico’s 100 years of independence, the market was formally occupied by traders following the Mexican Revolution. Make sure you include a trip to Mercado Hidalgo on your itinerary and take part in a longstanding tradition in the city of Guanajuato.

14 GUANAJUATO NIGHTLIFE

CALLEJONEADAS

Put on your most comfortable pair of shoes and head to Union Garden or Plaza de la Paz in Guanajuato, where entertainers garbed in seventeenth century costumes will take you back in time to the magic of Guanajuato’s colonial past. Known as estudiantinas, these groups guide you down traditional local alleyways as you listen to songs and chants from the local area and all over Mexico. You’ll also hear stories of famous legends and dance to the lively rhythms of their music. Without a doubt, the callejoneadas offer a fun and exciting way to learn about the city’s culture.

PLAYS AND MUSICAL PERFORMANCES

As a city known for its culture, Guanajuato features plays and live music performances almost every day, whether at popular restaurants or a local landmark. Take the time to review the monthly schedule and reserve your spot at one of these spectacles.

15 BARS AND NIGHTCLUBS

In Guanajuato, every day is a party. However Thursdays and Fridays are when the university students flood into the historic center to the many establishments located there. If you prefer a casual atmosphere the bar hopping is recommended. Start off with a shot of mezcal with orange then head off to more bars and order your favorite drink. You may wish to ask the residents for more information, as they know the best places and the best times to have fun.

The city’s trendy nightclubs cannot be missed. Like the bars, most of them are located within the historic center, however others can be found on small back streets that are easily accessible by taxi. If your trip coincides with the Festival Internacional Cervantino or the Day of Flowers, be sure to arrive early so you can get into the nightclub of your choice.

16 THINGS TO DO IN GUANAJUATO

Walk through the historic center from the Campanero Bridge to Alhondiga de Granaditas, just as the insurgents did in 1810.

To avoid having seven years of bad luck in romance, stand with your partner on the third step in the “Alley of the Kiss” and show them how much you love them.

Admire the panoramic view from the Pipila Monument and look for the Basilica, Alhondiga and University of Guanajuato. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to see your hotel.

Walk through the city’s tunnels and listen to your voice echo off the walls.

Start the night off by attending a Callejoneada and stay out until dawn with people from around the world at the city’s bars and nightclubs.

Marvel at the natural mummies displayed at the Museum of Mummies.

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