The legendary Mine of Valenciana was the world's richest silver mine.  In the hills above Guanajuato, the mining community of Valenciana produced a fifth of the world's silver, over 2,800,000 duros (Spanish dollars) per year, at the turn of the 18th century.

The prodigious wealth provoked a renaissance of European culture and architecture in the area.   On Valencianaís main plaza the world famous Templo de San Cayetano was erected by the first Count of Valenciana, a testament to the silver ore bonanza he had discovered. Templo de San Cayetano is renowned for its massive gold leaf altarpieces and now hosts musical performances by premier international artists throughout the Cervantino festival.

For five centuries this tranquil community has overlooked Guanajuato.  For five centuries the wealth of these hills has fascinated kings, counts and revolutionaries.  However, it wasn't until this century that Valenciana became a center for higher learning as.  In the restored 18th century monastery behind the Templo, is the Dept. of Philosophy & Writing (University of Guanajuato).  The Instituto de Miguel de Cervantes, a Spanish language school, is perched above ruins of ancient mine works.  CIMAT, the most prestigious Mathematics Dept. in Mexico, overlooks the compound/garden of the restored mine itself.  All of this is an easy walk from the Plaza de Valenciana.

Guests can explore the Templo, the working mine itself, the Boca Mina (the mine's historical entrance and museum), the Hacienda del Cochero (the macabre vaults beneath a forgotten hacienda) and the abundant silver, gem, mineral and curios shops of the local artisans.  Exploring the castle ruins hidden the hills surrounding Meson San Cayetano is always a possibility, or just taking a walk on one of the many beautiful trails in the area. 

Valenciana borders the Cuenca de Esperanza (Valley of Hope) nature reserve.  The Cuenca is situated on the migratory route of many North American birds and the fresh water creeks, forests and rock formations of this area make for beautiful hiking, camping and adventure activities.  To the west stands Cristo Rey (Christ the King), a colossal monument of Christ rising from the peak of Mt. Cubilete, at the exact geographical center of Mexico.  The view is spectacular.  On the road to Cristo Rey lies La Luz, a ghostly mining town from a bygone era.  Nearby, the La Luz Observatory holds monthly exhibitions, hosted by the university's astronomy department.  Meson San Cayetano is happy to provide extra information or arrange for transportation.

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

* Please be sure to indicate dates and leave a contact number and/or address.