Located in the central highlands of Mexico, in the small state of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende is iconic and recognized worldwide for its Baroque architecture, vibrant atmosphere, colorful streets, and friendly locals. For the past half of a century, this magical town has become the ideal destination for many ex-pats and tourists looking to admire the 500-year-old colonial city while submerging into the music, the food, as well as the art and history on the streets.
Here are some interesting facts about San Miguel de Allende:
Parroquia de San Miguel
Architecture
The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is a century-old church considered to be the Mexican take of Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia due to its Baroque and Gothic architecture. Making it the heart of San Miguel, this cathedral-looking church is the tallest building in the city and strategically located in the city’s center.
Strolling down the 24 blocks of cobblestone streets and alleys in San Miguel you will realize that the city has a fairytale ambiance thanks to its colorful houses, bright blue skies, and vibrant small shops selling an assortment of art galleries, souvenir shops, and cute boutiques. Tourists can’t seem to get enough of San Miguel, even without the help of any nearby exotic beach or jungle, it won the “World’s Best City Award” from Travel + Leisure in 2017 and then again in 2018.
Hat vendor strolling down San Miguel’s streets
Culture
The city of San Miguel was named after its two founders, monk Juan de San Miguel and General Ignacio Allende, in 1542. Due to its historic and cultural influence during Mexico’s War of Independence, it was proclaimed a World Heritage City by UNESCO back in 2008.
Although it is one of Mexico’s gems, the culture within the city is remarkably diverse due to the number of foreigners moving in for a better quality of life. In addition, many international students are enrolled in San Miguel’s Art Institute, recognized for its high-quality education. This institute originated in 1938 and was a common destination used by many World War II soldiers using their GI bill.
Even though Mexico gets attention for fighting a drug ware for almost a whole century fighting against a drug war that has led to violence and fear, the region around San Miguel has been able to maintain separation from its repercussions. Due to its geographical location, far away from any ports of entry to the U.S., San Miguel does not fit the criteria for any cartel violence.
Activities
Even though wondering and exploring around the magical city of San Miguel could count as enough, there are many other activities available to make your stay one of a kind. Cantina tours, botanical gardens, and hiking or horseback riding excursions through the bumpy canyons are just a few as well as nearby vineyards and gorgeous city views.
A day in the the Guanajuato tianguis
From the Jardín Botanico, Guanajuato’s high desert botanical ecosystem, not only will you overlook the whole town of San Miguel, but you will be able to see the diverse collection of Mexican succulents and stroll down more than six miles of of cactus-lined paths.
Visit the Jesuit Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco, which is also part of the UNESCO list, which shows a great representation of the melting pot of architectural traditions between the Amerindian, Spanish, and Creole cultures.
What better way to get a glimpse of the real Mexico than visiting a traditional tianguis, a massive flea market located in the outskirts of San Miguel. In this bazaar, you will be able to find everything from exotic fruits, vegetables, and spices to textiles, and clothing. There is no better way to learn about a country’s culture than through its food — from the street food and the traditional dishes, as well as their local cooking techniques. What better way to spend the day than feeling like a San Miguel local?
Last but not least, the one-of-a-kind hot air balloon adventure in the Mexican skies. Just as most big cities in the world have “red tour bus” for foreigners, San Miguel has hot air balloons instead. The balloons launch early in the morning, before dawn, and float over the mountains and never-ending valleys.
Experiencing Magical San Miguel will open your mind to the wonders the world has to offer. Learning and experiencing other cultures is the gateway to appreciate the differences and uniqueness each new location has to offer.
Want to experience the Mexican culture on your own? Check out our Mexico Yoga & Cooking Retreat where you will experience the beautiful, mountainous state of Guanajuato, Mexico.
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This yoga retreat in Mexico combines cooking classes with daily yoga, in the magical town of San Miguel de Allende. Read more for what to expect on this retreat: