Founded by the Spanish in early 16th century, Guanajuato is a beautiful city in central Mexico that is a treasure of history and architecture. The historic town and adjacent mines have been declared by UNESCO a “world heritage site”. The name Guanajuato literally means “hill of the frogs” for a large rock formation that resembles a frog.
Teatro Juarez Guanajuato Teatro (theater) Juarez , pictured above, began construction in 1872 funded by General Florencio Antillón, who contracted the services of engineer José Noriega, and was officially inaugurated in 1903 by General Porfirio Diaz. Its portico is in the Roman Doric style, and among its many charms is an art nouveau foyer.
Guanajuato became the leading silver extraction city of the 18th century. This is evidenced by the subterranean streets that traverse the city.
Open air cafe in Guanajuato, Mexico.
Teatro Juarez in Guanajuato, Mexico.
European-style cafe in Guanajuato, Mexico
Old church in Guanajuato Centro
Gothic-style colonial hotel in Guanajuato
Skyline of Guanajuato, Mexico
You will notice the narrow streets, balconies overhanging, very well preserved colonial architecture and outdoor cafes. Guanajuato indeed is one of Mexico’s best kept secrets.
This is a city where you want to stroll and take in the surroundings. Guanajuato is located essentially in a valley surrounded by the Sierra de Guanajuato mountains. You can travel up a side of a mountain (best to do so in a car) and get a spectacular view of the city, as well as other impressive architecture. Tourist spots are located strategically on the mountain where you can park the car, visit souvenir shops, eat at a restaurant or street vendor, and just relax and enjoy the view.
