WHERE YOU'LL LIVE
José Ramos
The historic municipality of Guanajuato is the capital of the state of Guanajuato and located in the geographical center of Mexico. The city – served by nearby Del Bajio International Airport – has a population of 171,000 and was named Cultural Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO in 1988.
Guanajuato is famous for its unique mountain/valley topography, colorful homes and cobblestoned streets, and rich cultural history. During the 16th and 17th century Spanish Colonial period, the region was one of the most important exporters of gold and silver in the world. Spain used this great wealth to build beautiful theaters, churches, government buildings and public plazas throughout the city, many of which are still enjoyed today. In 1821, the first victorious battle in The Mexican War For Independence was fought on the steps of the Alhóndiga de Granaditas granary, which is today the Museo Regional de Guanajuato. The city is also the birthplace of muralist Diego Rivera and legendary singer-songwriter Jose Alfredo Jimenez, as well as the home of the world-renowned Festival Internacional Cervantino that celebrates the works of Don Quixote author Miguel de Cervantes.
"love all the different colors of the city center"
View from the Pipila monument
Murals around the city
The estudiantina playing traditional songs and legends
Baroque style church
Hiking in the hills that surround Guanajuato
"The most colorful place I've ever seen"
Breakfast at our favorite vegan restaurant
flower mats decorate the city center on day of the dead
WHERE YOU'LL STUDY
The University Of Guanajuato was founded in 1744 by the Spanish Crown. Today, the non-profit University represents a fundamental part of life for the people of Guanajuato, offering more than 150 academic programs including 13 doctorates, 39 masters programs and 65 bachelor's degrees. Its intensive language school programs are oriented to American pre-college university & post-grad students, making it a popular all-ages destination for studying abroad.
More than 20,000 students enjoy free and discounted admission to the city’s many art, culture and music festivals, while local restaurants, bars and stores are required to maintain low prices to fit student budgets.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
It’s no secret that concerns for safety and security in Mexico have risen over the last decade. But is also worth noting that the vast majority of Mexico is perfectly safe for living and traveling. In fact, the U.S. State Department named Guanajuato as one of the safest destinations in Mexico in 2016.
CLA takes the safety and security of its students very seriously, which is why our organized trips and excursions are only to areas approved by the State Department.
During orientation, we discuss regular safety and security measures around the city as well as what states students are not allowed to travel to independently.
Around 19 million tourists – both nationals and foreigners – visit Guanajuato every year, making it one of the most popular travel destinations in Mexico. (To read more about safety and security in Mexico, click here)