Established on the site of a Chichimeca village (Cuanaxuato), Guanajuato was originally founded in the 16th century. For hundreds of years Guanajuato prospered. The ore from its hills wrought a captivating colonial jewel that has become the hearts-piece of cultural Mexico.

Guanajuato is considered by many to be the most beautiful colonial town in the Americas. In 1988 UNESCO designated Guanajuato a "World Heritage Zone." Tight cobbled lanes wind down the hills to empty into tree filled plazas and arched tunnels. From Baroque temples to Florentine fountains, Guanajuato's plazas and byways sketch a union of classic European architectural styles. The spectacular Teatro Juarez couples a Doric-Roman facade with a French lobby and a Moorish interior. In the evenings, symphony and quality cultural events are often presented at the Juarez. Some, however, prefer to follow the strolling minstrels (estudiantinas) who roam the streets, heartening the byzantine atmosphere with songs and humour.

In 1945 Guanajuato's college became the University of Guanajuato, Mexico's foremost public university. Students from all areas of Mexico, and around the world, spark the town's artistic and cultural life, providing year round symphony and theater productions as well as abundant opportunities for study.

Best known today for its heroic struggle in the armed uprising to liberate Mexico from Spain, Guanajuato is now the host of the International Cervantino Festival. For three weeks in October, the city's streets and theaters throng with patron of the arts who come to enjoy opera, symphony, theater, dance and alternative art performed by artists from around the world.

Guanajuato is a compact town, for the greater part walkable. There are many museums for those interested in Diego Rivera, Don Quixote and mummies, to name just a few. There are excellent shopping opportunities for silver and local crafts and throughout the year various colourful festivals take to the streets.

Less than 60 miles from Guanajuato lie the historical towns of San Miguel de Allende and Dolores Hidalgo. San Miguel is a Mexican National Monument, famous for its community of international artists and its handicraft shops. Dolores is the "Cradle of Independence." The town where the war for Mexican Independence began. Dolores is renowned for its ice cream and ceramics.

Guanajuato provides a wealth of experience for those who are looking for something exciting and unique. For guests of Meson San Cayetano, support for your specific interests can be arranged upon request.

Email Us (Cayetano@Guanajuato.com) if you'd like to make a reservation to come and stay with us at Meson San Cayetano!

Or Call us
In Mexico (4-73-26449)
Outside Mexico - 52 (473) 732-6449

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