In addition to the attractions of San Miguel there are also some wonderful places to visit nearby. The charming colonial city of Guanajuato is only about 1 hour away. It is one of the most beautifully preserved cities with narrow streets and small plazas. With two universities its population is on the younger side.

The small city of Dolores Hidalgo is just 25 miles from San Miguel. This is where Father Hidalgo gave his impassioned exhortation to rebel against Spain which was followed by a great chant from the crowds, Viva Mexico, now referred to as El Grito. This was the launching of the Mexican Independence in 1810. Today, the main industry of Delores Hidalgo is ceramics in the style of Talavera, Spain. You'll find bowls, dinnerware, vases, candlesticks, wash basins and many tile designs all in brightly painted designs.

Over the mountain 40 miles to the east is the larger city of Queretaro with a significantly more metropolitan character. The old center still has much of the original charm and it's worth a day's tour.

For a distinctly different view, about an hour away is Mineral de Pozos which has a large former mine with a small village nearby. The village is only semi populated so has somewhat of a ghost town feeling. The architecture of the mine buildings is distinctly European with Italian influence. During its operation we are told the mine utilized slaves and is enclosed on one side by an enormous wall. The slave story is still debated. Very little has been written about Pozos. One of the most important writings was a thesis written in Texas that was placed in the San Miguel Public Library and was later stolen. A few artists have gone to Pozos due to the low cost of property and the seclusion of a smaller place. It is anticipated that more artists will go there and it will become a new arts center. There are two hotels on the plaza both of which serve good food.

Other very interesting places to see but a little more distant are Bernal and Tequisquiapan.

We will be pleased to help you arrange visits to any of these places.