Live Great Stories in Guanajuato’s World Heritage Cities
Heritage Cities are those that have a singular aesthetic beauty and contribute identity to the country, by containing tangible and intangible aspects of certain relevant periods, such as the Viceroyalty, Independence, and modern Mexico, among others.
Due to the above, it is that UNESCO calls them such, making them creditors of significant value for national and international tourism; as well as granting a joint commitment between the countries where the Heritage Cities are located and the rest of the world, in the form of coordinated actions for the protection and conservation of all the Heritage Cities.
In the case of Mexico, it occupies the 4th place with the largest number of cities inscribed on the World Heritage List, counting 11 cities in 10 declarations, of which the State of Guanajuato has 2: Guanajuato and adjacent mines (1988). and the Villa de San Miguel and Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco (2008).
Guanajuato
A name derived from Quanaxhuato, which means “mountainous place of frogs”. It is the emblematic and picturesque Capital of the State of Guanajuato, it arose in the 16th century when veins of gold and silver were found in the subsoil, making it develop around this activity and making it the most important national mining center of the Colonial Era.
It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988, due to its historical importance since it is one of the main venues of the fight for Mexican Independence. In addition, it was recognized as the Cervantina Capital of America in 2005.
It stands out for its wide cultural offer that can be appreciated in its colonial-style architecture, colorful alleys, its iconic mummies and tunnels, and its mystical stories, among others. And as if that were not enough, it is the venue for major national and international events, such as the International Cervantino Festival.
San Miguel de Allende
Founded as a mission in 1542 with the name of San Miguel el Grande, under the patronage of the Archangel San Miguel, and called “El Grande” since it was an important crossroads and one of the most prosperous cities in New Spain, being transit on the Ruta de la Plata, the old Camino Real.
In the 18th century, its most important religious and civil buildings were built, of which the Town Hall of 1736 stands out, the current municipal presidency; the house of Ignacio Allende, the current Regional Museum; the House of the Mayorazgo del Canal and that of Manuel Tolsá, as well as that of the Inquisitor, that of the Marquis del Jaral de Berrio, and of the Dogs.
It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on July 8, 2008, due to the colonial jewel it represents within its colorful streets full of stories and traditions.
It is a popular destination for lovers of culture and a relaxed atmosphere, since in addition to having a wide variety of cultural and historical venues, it offers restaurants with renowned chefs, luxury hotels, and exclusive boutiques.
