Going Out in Guanajuato

Out and about town there is lots to enjoy in Guanajuato.

Alhondiga de Granaditas: This 18th century grain-store served as a jail during the War of Independence. Hooks, on which Father Miguel Hidalgo and Ignacio Allende severed heads were hung, still hang on the outside wall. Now a museum, exhibits of local history, archaeology and crafts are on display.

Jardin Union: Guanajuato’s central square, where on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings musical performances take place.

Basilica Colegiata de Nuestra Senora de Guanajuato: Inside this 17th century Baroque church is the oldest Christian statue in Mexico. The 8th century statue of the Virgin was a gift from King Philip II in 1557.

Mercado Hidalgo: This glass and iron building, constructed in 1910, was designed by Gustave Eiffel. T-shirts, cheap plastic toys, as well as authentic local wares, baskets, fresh produce and peanuts are sold here.

El Museo Casa Diego Rivera: Birthplace of artist Diego Rivers, this building is now a museum housing furniture and family portraits as well as paintings and murals by the famous artist.

Museo de las Momias: Mummified human corpses, even one as old as 130 years, are on display in this gruesome museum. Until the law was changed in 1858, if a grave hadn’t been paid for after five years, bodies were removed to make room for new arrivals. Guides give tours in Spanish only.

La Valenciana: One of the best known colonial churches in Mexico. Inside are three altars and religious paintings.

Universidad De Guanajuato: Originally a Jesuit seminary in 1732, this state university welcomes visitors as well as students. On a notice board you can find information on lectures, films, art exhibits, and concerts.

Teatro Juarez: The principle location of the Cervantes Festival, this theater with its bronze lions, Doric columns, and statues of the nine muses hosts year-round classical music concerts.

Shopping

Ceramics, jewelry, shawls, silver and sweaters are some of the main items for sale in stores around the city. Most shops are open until from 10 am to 8 pm, but closed during the siesta hours, 2 - 4 pm.

Sports and Exercise

The recreational zone of Las Palomas in La Cuenca de la Esperanza is located 15 minutes from the city of Guanajuato on the Dolores Hidalgo road. Thanks to its high level of bio-diversity it is an ideal spot for naturalists and birdwatchers; facilities are available for activities like mountain biking, hiking and camping.

Bars and Nightclubs

For two to three weeks in October, during the International Cervantes Festival, Guanajuato is alive with musicians, dancers, ballets, and plays. There is a wealth of popular bars and a few clubs. Guanajuato has three cinemas for evening entertainment, as well as plays, concerts, and ballets. There is something going on almost every night, especially during the high season.