About The City

Guanajuato is situated in the highlands of Mexico’s colonial heartland and is a blend of both the Old and the New Worlds. One of the most important mining centers in Mexico during the colonial period, Guanajuato was also the site of the first major rebel victory against the Spanish in the Mexican War for Independence. The city still maintains its colonial charm with cobblestone streets and historic buildings that are relatively untouched by modern construction. Its intricate system of underground tunnels now serves as the principal roadways within the city, creating a timeless appearance. Guanajuato, situated in a valley, is also surrounded by rocky mountains. These mountains are easily accessible to hikers, and afford spectacular views of the city and its neighboring countryside. The climate in these mountains, as well as in the town, is very pleasant; mornings and evenings are crisp and cool, while afternoons are sunny and very warm. Due in large part to the presence of the Universidad de Guanajuato, the town is a major center of cultural activities. In the areas of natural sciences, engineering, and medicine, the University and its faculty have received particularly strong recognition. Beyond the classroom, the University connects its students to the broader world of art, music, literature, and film. In the annual university-sponsored festival, El Cervantino, people from around the world come to view international works of art, attend concerts of famous musicians, and see insightful documentaries. Other plays, concerts, movies, parades, and dance festivals also occur year-round.