HACIENDA LA ESCALERA
Guanajuato, Gto. Mexico
GUANAJUATO CAPITAL, located in the state of Guanajuato, derives its name from the word Quanaxhuato, which in the Purépecha language means "hilly place of frogs". The first inhabitants of this settlement were the Otomies, who later were displaced by hunting and gathering groups of Chichimecans. In 1541 Viceroy Don Antonio de Mendoza bestowed these lands upon Don Rodrigo Vázquez, as payment for services rendered during the Spanish Conquest. The establishment of this city that became one of the most important of New Spain was essentially due to the discovery of silver ore in what would in 1548 become the Saint Barnabas and Rayas mines. In 1570 the city of Santa Fe y Real de Minas de Guanajuato was legally founded. Guanajuato is located in a valley and surrounded by stunning mountains. Its streets and many colorful alleyways spread out in every direction--winding, rising, and descending with the contours of the land. Some streets are no more than narrow stone paths, lined with flowering balconies that explode with color.
GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION Guanajuato is bordered to the north by the states of Zacatecas and San Luis Potosi, to the east by Queretaro de Arteaga, to the south by Michoacan de Ocampo, and to the west by Jalisco; alt 6,724 ft. POPULATION Guanajuato has a population of 153,364 (2005 INEGI Population and Housing Census). ECONOMY The principal economic activities of Guanajuato are tourism, mining and services. The three powers of the Guanajuato state government are also located in the city: the legislative, executive and judicial branches. POLITICS The governments is led by Honorable City of Guanajuato comprised of a mayor, 2 schools and 3 universities (including the University of Guanajuato). CLIMATE The whole year around about 20-24 'C (68-75 F) but at night it can be very; With spring like climate throughout the year, during the day short sleeves and light clothing are adequate; buy you will need a jacket or sweater at night. Closest airport Leon, Mexico, BJX.
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