San Miguel Allende... a Colonial Jewel

San Miguel de Allende is located in central Mexico, 92 km (57 mi) west of the city of Guanajuato and 276 km (170 mi) northwest of Mexico City, off Highway 110. The average temperature ranges between 16º and 22º C (61º and 72º F). The city’s magnificent colonial edifices, which often combine baroque and neoclassical elements, offer clear examples of the eclectic mix of architectural styles, as you’ll see in buildings such as the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel and the Oratorio de San Felipe Neri. What’s more, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the city’s role during the independence insurgence when you visit the stately mansion that houses the Museo Casa Allende. In addition, San Miguel is a destination that draws tourists from all over the world due to its important cultural events, such as the Sanmiguelada, which was inspired by Spain’s Pamplona Festival. The city also hosts world-famous events such as the Chamber Music Festival and the San Miguel Jazz Festival, which features renowned artists.

During the day you can explore the city’s surrounding areas, where you can do exciting outdoor recreational activities like skydiving and paragliding, which afford a breathtaking view of the terrain below. At night, in the city center you can enjoy the hospitable atmosphere in the bars and restaurants. As for the cuisine, be sure to try the unbeatable dishes that draw from various culinary influences, such as fiambre, rabo de zorra and pacholas.

HISTORICAL ARCHITECTURE
In San Miguel de Allende you can marvel at countless architectural gems, such as the colonial churches adorned with neogothic and neoclassical details.

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel. Located on the Plaza Principal. This parish church is the city’s most representative building. This 18th-century construction has an eclectic architectural style; the pink stone façade is of neogothic style, while the interior features neoclassical details. Open daily from 9:00 to 7:00.

Templo de la Concepcion (Las Monjas). Located on the corner of La Canal and Dr. Hernandez Macias. This 18th-century neoclassical-style construction was inspired by the Church of the Disabled in Paris. Inside you’ll see the works of famed artist Juan Rodriguez Juarez. Open daily from 9:00 to 7:00.

Oratorio de San Felipe Neri. Located on the corner of Insurgentes and Pepe Llanos. The interior houses more than 30 oil paintings dedicated to Miguel Cabrera. Open Saturdays from 8:00 to 6:00.

Templo de Nuestra Señora de la Salud. Located on Mesones Street, next to the Plaza Civica Ignacio Allende. This edifice, built at the end of the 18th century, houses oil paintings of famous artists from that era. The splayed arch portal is one of only six in Mexico, while the tower has the oldest bell in the city. Open daily from 7:00 to 7:00.

MUSEUMS
In San Miguel de Allende you can visit a museum that was once the house of one of the most important figures of the independence movement.

Museo Historico Casa de Allende. Located at 1 Cuna de Allende Street, next to the Parroquia de San Miguel. Housed in the old residence of General Ignacio Allende, this museum has a collection of weapons, documents and other objects that belonged to this independence war hero. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 4:00.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
At a nearby nature reserve you can go hiking and horseback riding while enjoying the spectacular natural scenery. At this spot you also can go rock climbing with trained guides.

Jardin Botanico El Charco del Ingenio. Located 2.5 km (1 mi) northeast of San Miguel de Allende, off Highway 1. This 100-hectare (247-acre) ecological reserve was created to protect and conserve the region’s wildlife. Here guides will accompany you along wide routes and trails while hiking or horseback riding. If you like rock climbing, this place has ideal cliffs of varying difficulty levels.

ARTS AND CRAFTS
In San Miguel de Allende you’ll find all kinds of regional crafts made in nearby towns. The most notable handicrafts include traditional hand blown glass objects, beautiful items of silver, gold and brass, ponchos and wool garments, stone and wood sculptures, wrought iron works, Majolica ceramics, Talavera pottery and basketworks. You can purchase these products at the Ignacio Ramirez market, the Artisans market and in the city’s numerous stores.

GASTRONOMY
During your stay in San Miguel de Allende you’ll discover a wide variety of delicious regional dishes, as numerous restaurants entice you to try the fine cuisine in this cosmopolitan city. Among the local favorites are rabo de zorra (a dish prepared with chiles, eggs and lard), pacholas (ground beef patties), empanadas de carnitas (turnovers stuffed with pork), and the city’s most representative dish: San Miguel-style fiambre (a combination of meats, fruit and vegetables topped with olive oil and apple cider vinegar). Also, be sure to try the pan de Acambaro (a local bread) and the traditional milk candy.

More information: http://www.visitmexico.com/

Plan your trip: Querétaro and San Miguel Allende City Tour