What makes San Miguel de Allende a unique destination? Is it the environment that is lived with the local people? Is it the various color palettes that decorate the facades of its buildings? Is it its colonial architecture? Maybe it’s the history of this town that has been preserved within its streets?
San Miguel de Allende is one of the many magical towns in Mexico, and perhaps one of the most popular. Located in the state of Guanajuato, this town has been described as “the Forge of National Independence,” since it was the place where two key figures of Mexico’s independence met: Ignacio Allende, originally from this town, and Miguel Hidalgo. The former joined the latter in his struggle to achieve the country’s autonomy.
The magical town is a colonial treasure due to its historical, cultural, gastronomic, and architectural richness that has dazzled thousands of people over the years.
Historic sites
San Miguel de Allende has a series of historical places that, at the same time, exemplify the greatness of the architecture of the colonial era. Some of them are:
Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel:
This is an impressive temple built in 1880. Its builder, Zeferino Gutiérrez, was inspired by European Gothic architecture and art.
Plaza Allende
Also known as the “Main Garden,” this park is located in the historic center of the city. The first city hall of independent Mexico was established in this square.
Temple and Convent of San Francisco:
Its facades retain a churrigueresque fashion, a Spanish Baroque technique, whereas the tower has a neoclassical style.
World’s best city
San Miguel is distinguished by the warmth and generosity of its people, who every day welcome thousands of visitors with open arms and make them feel as if they were at home. Over the years, it has received a series of nominations and recognitions from International Organizations and specialized tourism magazines.
In 2008, UNESCO awarded the Historic Center the recognition of a World Heritage Site. Likewise, this town has been continuously recognized as “the best city in the world,” by Food and Travel, Conde Nast Readers Traveler, and Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.
No matter how many times you visit this wonderful town, there will always be new surprises to discover when touring San Miguel De Allende.
Images from: Shutterstock
