History

Founded in 1542 by The Franciscan missionary Fray Juan de San Miguel, San Miguel de Allende has remained true to its colonial heritage. Growing around the springs of El Chorro, the city flourished as Spanish and Indian settlers moved in to farm, raise cattle and start tanning industries. When silver was discovered in Zacatecas and Guanajuato, San Miguel became an important supply point for mining supplies moving north and silver moving south. During the independence movement of 1810, San Miguel played a key role and its native son, Ignacio Allende joined with Miguel Hidalgo as one of the leaders of the movement.

San Miguel was declared a National Monument in 1926 and has escaped many of the consequences of modernization that occurred in other cities. The Instituto Allende, openned in the late 1930's and has served as a magnet for artists and scholars. Today along with other institutions focussed on the arts, it continues to attract people from all over the world interested in the arts.

Surrounding Attractions

Today, San Miguel also serves as a convenient place from which to visit many nearby attractions. Dolores Hidalgo, the birthplace of the Independence movement; Guanajuato, rich in thehistory of silver and the birthplace of Diego Rivera; Querétaro, where Maximilian met his end; Bernal, the charming woolen village, the Missions of the Sierra Gorda and Atotonilco are all within an easy drive of San Miguel.

Major events and festivals

Jazz 2001. Over Thanksgiving weekend, San Miguel plays host to jazz greats from all over the world during the 7th Annual International Jazz Festival. November 22-25.

Festival de Música de Cámara. Each year the Festival de Música de Cámara brings world-renowned international artists to San Miguel for a two week chamber music festival including concerts and workshops. July 28-August 1, 2001.

Festival Internacional Cervantino. Held in nearby Guanajuato in October more than 35 countries participate with activities that include dance, theater, opera, music and film.

Independence Day. Starting the evening of September 15th, with the famous Grito shouted from the balcony of the Allende museum followed by an all day celebration on the 16th, with parades, fireworks and music, the Jardín is jammed with celebrating people.

San Miguel Archangel Birthday. On September 29th, this festival for San Miguel's patron Saint, rounds out the month. Starting with a firework laden battle between San Miguel and the forces of evil at 4 am, the weekend is filled with parades, music and native dancers from all over Mexico.

Calendar of holidays, events and festivals