Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Guanajuato will captivate you with its unmatched architecture and corners full of history and legend. Guanajuato, in the heart of Mexico’s Bajío region, is one of the most fascinating cities in the Mexican Republic.
Formally founded in 1570 as Santa Fe de Guanajuato, this metropolis owes its colonial-era growth to its strategic location—which allowed it to connect with the Central region and northern cities such as Zacatecas and San Luis Potosí—as well as to its important mining activity. The exploitation of its gold and silver veins generated great wealth for the ruling classes, who built magnificent houses, plazas, and buildings that were gradually distributed across the region’s capricious geography, giving the city much of its unique and distinctive character today.
Years later, Guanajuato became the setting for notable moments in Mexico’s history, such as the War of Independence and the Revolution, among other events that increased its cultural relevance and appeal. It became home to renowned artists and cultural promoters who worked to create various interesting museums and galleries. Today, visitors can get closer to the marvelous historical, cultural, and artistic legacy of a city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.
Below, we present six must-see attractions you have to visit during your next trip to the capital of the state of Guanajuato:
1. Jardín de la Unión. Although Guanajuato does not have a traditional main square like many other cities in the country, this space functions as its downtown hub. With a pleasant, family-friendly atmosphere, you’ll find the Church of San Diego, a kiosk, and several long-standing restaurants, bars, and hotels. Just a few steps away stands the unmistakable façade of Teatro Juárez, one of Guanajuato’s most iconic buildings, with its twelve fluted columns and the six muses of the arts crowning the top.
2. Monument to El Pípila. Right beside Teatro Juárez is the entrance to the funicular that takes you up the hillside to the imposing monument honoring this historical figure. According to tradition, carrying a torch and a heavy stone slab on his back, he helped burn and open the doors of the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, where royalist forces were sheltered during one of the first battles of the War of Independence. From here, you can take incredible selfies with the colonial city of Guanajuato as your backdrop.
3. Alhóndiga de Granaditas. This is undoubtedly one of the most historic buildings in the city. One of the most memorable battles at the beginning of the War of Independence took place here. Today, it serves as a regional museum that highlights the importance of this social movement in Mexico and Latin America.
4. Alley of the Kiss (Callejón del Beso). This narrow alley — only 68 centimeters wide — is a must-visit for couples who want to learn about the tragic love story of Carmen and Luis, who could only kiss from their respective balconies until they were discovered by their feuding families. A kiss here is said to guarantee many years of happiness and good luck!
5. Mummy Museum. In this “macabre” venue, travelers can admire the largest collection (around 100 individuals) of naturally mummified bodies, preserved over time thanks to the unique soil conditions of Guanajuato. A visit here is a must.
6. Cervantino Festival. If you visit at the end of October, you may coincide with this famous artistic festival that takes over the city’s main stages and streets each year. It features world-class performances, including concerts, theater productions, dance shows, and book presentations for all tastes.
And receive exclusive information to travel through Mexico in style!
