I am moving to Mexico. What do I need to know?
Is San Miguel de Allende a good place to live?
- A little bit of history
San Miguel de Allende, in the state of Guanajuato, has received numerous awards in recent years, including being named the Best Small City in the World and the Best Wedding Destination, among others. Additionally, it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage City since 2008, leaving the group of Mexico’s Magical Towns. In 1982, a Federal Decree established the Zone of Historical Monuments, and even earlier, in 1926, it was declared a Historical Monument City by Federal Decree, almost a hundred years ago.?
The city’s rich history spans hundreds of years, from contemporary Mexico back to the Viceroyalty of New Spain (often incorrectly referred to as the colonial period since it was not a colony of Spain but a viceroyalty) and even earlier, heavily influenced by pre-Hispanic cultures that inhabited the region. This long history has left a vast material and intangible legacy evident in its architecture and traditions.
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San Miguel de Allende’s architecture has evolved alongside the various stages of its history. From the Mesoamerican cultures that left a small sample of their greatness in the Ca?ada de la Virgen Archaeological Zone, to the numerous chapels scattered throughout the municipality, established during the religious missions that catechized the indigenous population after the arrival of the Spanish and the conquest of the Aztec Empire in 1521. These chapels, part of the Route of the Indian Chapels, can still be visited today. The blend of religion and ancient customs is evident and resilient, particularly in the native communities that actively participate in various festivities throughout the year, ranging from simple celebrations of a saint in a chapel to grand celebrations in honor of Saint Michael the Archangel, Saint Anthony of Padua, Holy Week, among others. The town’s multiple churches, both in the communities and in the city itself, are enduring examples of the wealth that San Miguel el Grande boasted due to its location along the silver route, El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro.
San Miguel de Allende’s history spans centuries, and today we can enjoy a glimpse into its past and marvel at a legacy that is carefully preserved for everyone.