Strolling the picturesque streets will be your main pastime in San Miguel de Allende, for this is an exceptionally fine example of a Spanish colonial town so much so that the Mexican government has made it a national monument in order to preserve its charm. Any buildings that are constructed must be in harmony with the Spanish style architecture and colonial ambience.
Then. Juan de San Miguel, a Franciscan friar, founded the town in 1542. The "Allende" was later added to the name to honor Ignacio Allende, a hero of the struggle for independence.
San Miguel's narrow cobblestone streets climb the slopes in gradual stages. During a walk around town, you'll see fine old colonial houses, many of them with plaques telling what famous figure was born there, or lived there, or what important event took place inside the thick walls.
Of the dozen churches in San Miguel de Allende, the most unusual is the parish church of San Miguel on the central plaza, which reflects a crazy potpourri of architectural styles. Originally this was a rather plain Franciscan building. It was given its Gothic appearance in the 19th century by an Indian mason who studied postcard pictures of French Gothic cathedrals and then created his own unique version with its ornate towers and pink stone facade.
West of the church is the house where Ignacio Allende was born in 1779. The inscription over the doorway reads in Latin, "Here was born he who is widely known."
Buildings worth exploring include the 18th century Church of San Francisco, which has a 17th century monastery attached to it, and the other group of religious structures on Insurgentes a photogenic collection of domes, steeples, niches, and scalloped roofs. Inside, examine the "miracle paintings," votive paintings made in answer to a miraculous cure.
Now. The beauty and quiet of San Miguel de Allende have attracted a sizable colony of foreign artists and writers. Instituto Allende, an accredited school of fine arts, attracts students from all over the Americas. The Institute has a beautiful hillside setting on the edge of town. From time to time exhibits of student arts and crafts are displayed. Academia Hispano Americana offers intensive Spanish and related courses. A branch of the National Institute of Fine Arts (Instituto de Bellas Artes) is housed in a former monastery a handsome, two story building with gracefully arched corridors enclosing a tranquil, tree shaded patio. Because of the many resident Americans as well as visiting teachers, students, and tourists, the city contains many fine shops offering a wide variety of local merchandise, as well as goods from all over Mexico. Interesting art studios abound.
You'll find a charming resort type hotel, another with colonial charm, nice motels, and other inexpensive accommodations.
Several excellent inns and restaurants are available in town. One of the most unique is the attractive colonial Posada de Ermita, built on the hillside site of the family's home and owned by relatives of Cantinflas, the famed Mexican comedian.
Strolling the picturesque streets will be your main pastime in San Miguel de Allende, for this is an exceptionally fine example of a Spanish colonial town so much so that the Mexican government has made it a national monument in order to preserve its charm. Any buildings that are constructed must be in harmony with the Spanish style architecture and colonial ambience.
West of the church is the house where Ignacio Allende was born in 1779. The inscription over the doorway reads in Latin, "Here was born he who is widely known."
You'll find a charming resort type hotel, another with colonial charm, nice motels, and other inexpensive accommodations.
