Attractions in Guanajuato, Mexico: What to do and where to go

Juarez Theater

The Juarez Theater is undoubtedly an unmistakable landmark in Guanajuato. The access to the theater is guarded by two statues of lions. Its stone facade is composed of 12 columns, on top of which are 8 of the 9 Greek muses, symbolizing the Fine Arts. The inside is decorated with an amazing fresco, representing the ancient city of Constantinople. Thanks to its diverse architectural style, it is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the country. The traditional student music bands depart from here to begin the classic "Callejoneadas" (street parades) and it is also the main backdrop for the Cervantino International Festival. In this gorgeous building, they have a variety of artistic activities from theater plays and ballet performances to concerts and expos.

Cervantino International Festival

Each October, Guanajuato transforms into the home of the Cervantino International Festival, the most important cultural event in Mexico. In addition it's one of the most prominent in all Latin America, with cultural displays from around the globe. The "Cervantino" not only to pays homage to the well-known writer Miguel de Cervantes, but is also a tribute to the adventures of his main character "Don Quixote".

During the festival, events are held on many stages featuring international artists, helping it to become a very high profile event of great cultural significance. The Cervantino International Festival is definitely an important part of Mexico's cultural heritage.

The Mummies Museum

This museum was originally a temple and the main cemetery in Guanajuato. In 1865, the first mummified bodies of the former inhabitants of the region were discovered. Nowadays, there are many theories to explain this strange phenomenon however, Guanajuato is still the only place in the world where the mummification of humans has occurred naturally. The museum displays more than 100 mummies of women, men and children, nowadays properly protected in show cases for better preservation. If you visit Guanajuato then visiting this museum is a must, but only for those who don't scare easily!

Cristo Rey del Cubilete

This beautiful monument is a tribute to Christ and was erected during the Christian revolution by Catholics of the region, when the government of the time attempted to change the Catholic and nationalist ideology of the Mexican people. It is located on Cubilete Hill in the Silao district, just 15 minutes away from Guanajuato. This beautiful sanctuary, is located on a mountain of close to 3000 feet from the base to the peak. On the top, you will find a modern basilica with a majestic 66-feet statue of Christ.

Nuestra Senora de Guanajuato Basilica

This imposing baroque basilica, was built in the 17th Century and it is one of the best examples of religious architecture in the city. Its overly-elaborate facade and the rich decoration on its towers and belfries, make an indisputable stamp on the beauty of this temple. Standing out in the interior, are the arches and beautiful crown molding, along with the main shrine which is designed in a neoclassical style and devoted to Nuestra Senora de Guanajuato (Our Lady of Guanajuato).

The Peace Plaza

One of the main squares in Guanajuato, is the Peace Plaza. Located in its center, is a beautiful sculpture called Monumento a la Paz (Monument to Peace). It was inaugurated by President Porfirio Diaz in 1903. This gorgeous plaza has been witness to many important events in history, such as the proclamation of Guanajuato as the capital city of Mexico by Benito Juarez and the insurrection of the mining towns against the injustice of the colonial government.

Union Garden

This incredible garden dates back to colonial times, when street markets and traditional festivities took place here. During the time of Porfirio Diaz kiosks were built and nowadays it's visited by tourists and a favorite place for locals to gather and enjoy delicious ice creams.

San Diego de Alcantara Temple

This majestic temple was constructed during the 17th Century. Its pink-quarry facade is a classic example of Mexican Chirrugueresque (baroque style). On the inside are images of Christ and it also features an impressive collection of 18th-Century Mexican paintings, worthy of display in any museum. It is located very close to the Union Garden.

The Legend Museum

One of the main attractions in Guanajuato, is the Museum of Legends. In Guanajuato, it's a real tradition to pass stories on from generation to generation, transforming these stories into elaborate myths. Get to know the legend of the Snort, the Junk Shop, the Kissing Alley, the "General", the Pipila and the famous mummies, among others. They are displayed in the museum accompanied by electronic animation, which helps enhance each legend.

Alhondiga de Granaditas Regional Museum

The museum is located in a beautiful building in Guanajuato, its facade of carved stone and rubblework dates back to the 18th Century. The museum was witness to one of the most important battles during the War of Independence. It stands out for being one of the biggest and grandest in the country and its historic and cultural background is incredibly vast. The exhibition halls are full of archeological items from different periods in time, as well as paintings, sculptures and photographs. It features an auditorium, a library and other special services.

Diego Rivera House Museum

Guanajuato is proud to be home to this beautiful 18th-Century house, where Diego Rivera was born, one of the most renowned Mexican artists in the world. The house has been perfectly preserved as it was when the Rivera family lived here. This museum features more than 100 original works by the Mexican painter, undoubtedly one of the most important collections in the country, since it encompasses all the different pictorial styles he used.

The Temple of San Cayetano (La Valenciana)

Found on a high mountain road, this church sits nestled in the hillside, overlooking the valley of Guanajuato. Built by Don Antonio de Obregon y Alcocer, construction started in 1775, was completed in 1788 and shows fundamental examples of the Churrigueresque style (Spanish Baroque). The edifice itself is built with pink quarry rock and also features an altar piece covered in gold leaf.