With official national monument status since 1926, the colonial gem that is San Miguel de Allende is a picturesque destination. Set in the Mexican central highlands, the town’s fairly-tale ambience is the product of its pretty cobbled streets, colonial mansions and flower-filled patios. Few who take a trip to San Miguel de Allende aren’t entirely in awe of its traditional charm.
With a reputation as an artistic community based on the considerable volume of creatively inclined and the town’s continued ability to attract such characters, expect to be inspired here. The Instituto Allende is undoubtedly one of the focal points of the scene, serving as both an art academy and a center responsible for hosting a variety of art events.
A busy calendar of festivals helps draw visitors, with December’s San Miguel Music Festival the highlight for many. The San Miguel Arcángel Festival in honor of the town’s patron saint is also a major crowd pleaser, seeing activities such as the running of the bulls, live music and dance performances.
Highlights
La Parroquia: unlike any other church is the country, La Parroquia is commonly considered the emblem of San Miguel on account of its highly unusual architectural features which are the work of Zeferino Gutiérrez.
Church of San Rafael: this 18th century structure sits at the right-hand corner of the Parroquia and is known for its collection of sculptures.
Casa de Allende Museum: the former residence of one of San Miguel’s most popular historic figures, Ignacio Allende, is now an interesting museum with a variety of colonial artifacts.
Cante Botanical Gardens: located just outside of the town, these gardens are home to a variety of species of cacti among other plant specimens.
The Church of El Oratorio de San Felipe Neri: is located north of the city and is notable for its Miguel Cabrera paintings of its namesake.