Guanajuato is a charming and historical town in the interior of Mexico. It rests in a valley, where, in the center of town, access is limited to foot traffic, as cars are relegated to the old tunnels criss-crossing below. Architecturally, Guanajuato is fascinating. Structures are built one on top of another, side by side. Homes and businesses intermingle up and down the callejones (alleys) which offer passage for the souls of one's shoes, but not to the rubber of one's car tires. Building codes would seem to be non-existent here. Yet, structural integrity is sound. Lawyers also seem to be pleasantly rare. Fall into a hole in the street where the sewer is under renovation, it's your fault. Aesthetically speaking, it is also every man for himself. Pick a color... any color, paint your house. It's wonderfully refreshing.
(Click on images to enlarge.)
Bascilica de Nuestra Senora de Guanajuato near the city center... accross from Dominos
Callejon Casulidad
People here seem to have no ambition for perfection, a quality which adds to the character and charm of the environment. Instead, they direct their energies to the tasks involved in day-to-day survival.
Typical street leading to a tunnel (at left)
An interior courtyard
A fresh coat of paint on a home
Typical front door
A public works project
Tunnels
Guanajuato
Dana W. Ball
