Museums dedicated to the history and cultural legacy of Guanajuato are found throughout the capital city. One of the most important museums is the Don Quixote Iconographic Museum. Opened in 1987, the museum houses a large collection of artistic works featuring imagery from Cervantes's epic novel, Don Quixote. The museum also hosts the International Cervantine Colloquium, concerts, lectures and painting competitions.
The Museum of Mummies showcases centuries-old human remains that were preserved through natural mummification. Due to the dry climate and high mineral content of the soil, bodies interred near Guanajuato are naturally preserved. Discovered in the late nineteenth century, Guanajuato's mummies are now one of the city's most popular and macabre attractions.
Diego Rivera, one of Guanajuato's most prominent sons, was a well-respected muralist born in a large eighteenth century house that is now home to the Diego Rivera Museum. The house holds a large collection of Rivera family artifacts and personal effects, as well as more than 100 works of art, including mural sketches and portraiture.
Guanajuato is a highly walkable city and wandering the colorful, labyrinthine streets is one of the most inexpensive activities the city offers. Guanajuato takes care to preserve the historic integrity of its neighborhoods, streets and "callejones," or alleyways. Because the city developed over such a long period of time, the neighborhoods date to different eras and have distinct characters. San Clemente and San Luisito are two of the oldest neighborhoods. Known for their Spanish Baroque architecture and picturesque alleyways, both neighborhoods are home to numerous shops that sell traditional ceramic wares.
Certain streets in the capital city are worthy of exploration. Calle Subterranea, or the underground street, was constructed on the bed of the Guanajuato river. Flanked by tall stone walls, the street is covered by 127 stone arches that give it a medieval look. Running through the architectural heart of the city, Calle Sopena passes in front of numerous nineteenth century mansions. It begins at the Juarez Theatre and ends at the Don Quixote Iconographic Museum, connecting the historic neighborhoods with some of Guanajuato's most famous attractions.
Like many colonial cities, Guanajuato has a profusion of gardens and plazas. Founded in 1898, El Cantador is a walled garden located in the city's center. Formerly the site of a hacienda owned by singer Jose Carpio, the garden was named El Cantador ("the singer") in honor of the land's former owner.
Jardin Reforma was designed and built by architect Jose Noriega between 1861 and 1875. Featuring stone pillars and Roman-style arches, the garden has a large collection of ornamental plants and fountains.
Jardin Union, a popular hub for locals, is a triangular park tucked away in the center of the city. Live music and dancing are offered on Thursday and Sunday evenings, as well as cultural events throughout the year.
