San Miguel de Allende, with its gorgeous colonial architecture and enchanting cobblestone streets, was named the American Culture Capital for 2019 by the International Bureau of Cultural Capitals. Mexico is now the country with the most cultural capitals since the honor was instituted in 1998.
The International Bureau of Cultural Capitals will provide San Miguel de Allende with worldwide marketing through the broadcast of eight thousand television commercial spots in 45 countries around the world, an advertising expense of $2 million dollars, according to the NGO.
This well-deserved accolade celebrates San Miguel de Allende’s many charms. The year-round spring-like climate makes for days of roaming streets lined with superb restaurants and galleries featuring Mexico’s incredible artesanias (handicrafts). The city was also named a Unesco World Heritage site in 2008 specifically for its architecture, but also for its role in the process of Mexican Independence.
The city’s architecture represents an evolution of styles from Baroque to late 19-century Neo-Gothic. The Sanctuario de Atotonilco is a particularly amazing example of Mexican Baroque, Unesco says. The murals, in particular, earning the sanctuary the title of Mexico’s Sistine Chapel.
But other drawcards of San Miguel de Allende also contribute to its continued recognition as one of the world’s best cities. A smattering of creative chefs San up a number of delectable restaurants ranging from contemporary Mexican cuisine, like Nomada, to Peruvian delicacies like La Parada. While regular festivals, fireworks and parades provide endless chances to get swept up in cultural activities. The San Miguel Arcángel celebrates the town’s chief patron saint by creating an artificial dawn using thousands of fireworks and an all-night party.
Other cities in Mexico that have been named American Culture Capitals in past years include Merida, Guadalajara and Estado de Colima.
SMT Newsroom with information from Lonely Planet
