About San Miguel de Allende

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San Miguel de Allende

Located in the heartlands of the state of Guanajuato, the colonial gem of San Miguel de Allende is situated on a hillside facing the Presa de Allende and the distant Guanajuato Mountains. Declared a national monument in 1926, San Miguel is one of Mexico's most picturesque cities with colonial mansions, flower-filled patios, and winding, terraced cobblestone streets. San Miguel is particularly beautiful in March, when flowering jacaranda trees are in bloom.

Clustered around the central plaza are a number of colonial structures that include the church (La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, or Parish of St. Michael Archangel), construction of which began in 1689 and was completed in 1730 with further additions being built on into the 1800´s, and the Casa de Allende, with elaborate balconies and stone carvings, where Ignacio de Allende was born.

San Miguel de Allende is also known to be a thriving artists' community, and has been luring artistically-inclined Mexicans and foreigners for decades. In 1950 the Instituto Allende art school was founded, and San Miguel began to attract a growing number of foreign artists, craftspeople and tourists. The city now has several art and Spanish schools and private tutors and the most extensive bilingual library in the country, as well as the Photography Academy, art exhibits and concerts, crafts shops and markets and a fabulous selection of fine restaurants, many offering music while you dine or enjoy a drink. There are also many other institutes focusing on arts, literature, and language. But despite the invasion of foreigners, San Miguel is still a very Mexican village.

The city boasts a rich cultural and entertainment scene. Many events (plays, lectures, art classes) are in English. The renowned San Miguel Music Festival (featuring Mexican and international artists) takes place each December. A city with six patron saints and dozens of churches, San Miguel also hosts a full calendar of religious festivals throughout the year. The biggest event is without a doubt on the 29th of September when the town's chief patron saint - San Miguel Arcángel - is honored with a celebration. The event includes a running of bulls through city streets, traditional dancers, and lots of merriment.

If you are looking for an authentic Mexican town with international flair, centuries old history, and a relaxed and peaceful environment, San Miguel de Allende is the place for you.

GETTING THERE
There are daily flights from the US to Léon/Guanajuato airport on American and Continental from Dallas and Houston, with connecting flights from elsewhere in the US. Aeromexico also serves Léon. Take a bus or taxi to San Miguel, only 90 minutes away. You can also fly into Mexico City and take the bus for the 4-hour drive north.