As if time has stopped: narrow, cobbled streets of old Spanish houses hemmed in Patiostil. Over the in 1900 m lying town on a hillside (80 000 pop.) supervises the monument protection since 1926. For decades is the lively, stylish San Miguel destination for painters and writers from North America. The art academy Instituto Allende enjoys international renown. On 21 January, with parades and fireworks the people think of the birth of Ignacio Allende, the fellow Padre Hidalgos and the most famous son of the city.

Convento La Concepcion
The extensive monastery from the 18th century now houses the art school Nigromante. Visitors are under the arcades of the Court always welcome. Hernández Macías 75

Instituto Allende
The Casa de Solariega (1734), former country seat of a count, is now the headquarter of the prestigious art academy. Even language and summer school courses for teenagers are offered. Beautiful gardens, a cafe and a well stocked library invite you to linger. Ancha de San Antonio 20

Plaza de Allende
The main square of the city opens up to the magic of the San Miguel. Take a seat on one of the iron benches, shaded by laurel trees, and enjoy the lodges overlooking colonial buildings of the 17th century and what is happening.

San-Francisco-Church
The small Plazuela San Francisco is dominated by the 18th century Churriguerastil built in God's house, it applies to art historians as one of the best examples of this Mexican style. In the interior neoclassical equipment and valuable paintings. Plazuela de San Francisco

San-Miguel-Curch (La Parroquia)
San Miguel from pink stone, with lush, bizarre shapes, is probably the only church in Mexico, which was trasformed by a Native American architect. Plaza de Allende

food
La Capilla
Everything here matches: A building from the 17th century with a view of church and mountains, offering Mexican and international kitchen. With accompanying music (live), terrace garden and art gallery. Reservations advisable! Cuna de Allende 10
Meson Bugambilias
Sealing green patio with fountains and music, regional cuisine, always lots of activity. Hidalgo 42 (close to the Zócalo)
Las Musas
After visiting the convent of La Concepción people meet in the courtyard under the arcades of the small cafe and restaurant. Hernández Macías 75

where to stay
Posada Carmina
The small, charming hotel in the center was once a spacious colonial townhouse, very romantic. 12 rooms. Cuna de Allende 7
Posada La Fuente
Colonial house with a Mexican-family atmosphere, the guests meet at a cafe de olla on the patio with fountains and babbling in a small restaurant. Spacious rooms with fireplace, the desire to be fired, also in the procurement of bus tickets, the hotel will help you. 14 rooms. Ancha de San Antonio 95/Callejón de San Antonio
La Puertecita Boutique Hotel
Colonial charm coupled with the amenities of modern luxury can be found in this house on a hill overlooking the city. 23 rooms. Santo Domingo 75, Colonia Los Arcos
Vista Hermosa
Small house in the colonial city without much comfort, but with style and ambiance. 17 rooms. Cuna de Allende 11