Guest tour Information

GUANAJUATO

Guanajuato originated from the word "Quanashuato" that it in Tarasco means "hilly place of frogs".

Explored by Cristobal de Olid in 1522, after the defeat of the Mexican empire the "Franciscans" were left in charge of evangelization. By 1538 the "Augustins" founded the first study center of America.

The city, however, owes its fame and fortune to rich veins of silver and gold discovered by the Spanish. Historically and culturally speaking, Guanajuato is in the fore-front of Mexican affairs and attracts visitors from all over the world. They are drawn by the unparalleled atmosphere which permeates its ancient walls.

LEON

Leon was founded on January 20^th, 1576 and was originally intended as fort town for defense purposes against the warlike Chichimecas. In 1580 it was considered a principal town and independent of nearby Guanajuato. During the Independence war (1810-1821) Leon suffered an upheaval in its economy and politics. Later when the mines in the neighboring city of Guanajuato had to be abandoned, many of the workers migrated to Leon.

Dolores Hidalgo

The town upon whose church steps Father Miguel Hidalgo called out for independence from Spain in 1810. His legendary declaration, known nationwide as the "Grito de Dolores", is repeated every September 16 to start Independence Day festivities. The town is small enough for an easy stroll and is well known as a shopper's paradise for it�s colorful Talavera ceramics and tiles. It�s located 30 miles north of San Miguel de Allende.

NEXT	STATE OF GUANAJUATO MAP		BACK
HOME		Last modified 05/28/2004