Located in the 'Bajio' region of the State of Guanajuato at an elevation of about 6200 ft., lies the small colonial town of San Miguel De Allende. The combination of the elevation and latitude keep San Miguel from becoming blistering hot in the summer or from freezing it´s inhabitants out during the winter.

History
San Miguel De Allende was founded in 1542 by the Franciscan monk Fray Juan de San Miguel, and was one of the an important stops on the Antiguo Camino Real - part of the silver route from Zacatecas.

San Miguel also played an important part in the Mexican Revolution. On September 16th, 1810 Father Miguel Hidalgo uttered his famous cry for the independence of Mexico. "Long live religion!, Long live Our Lady of Guadalupe! Long live the Americas and death to the corrupt government!". San Miguel de Allende was the first stopping point for Miguel Hidalgo and his followers on his trip to Mexico City gathering supporters. In 1826 San Miguel De Allende changed it's name from 'San Miguel el Grande' to 'San Miguel De Allende in honer of the heroic actoions of Native San Miguelian General Ignacio Allende who served as Padre Miguel Hidalgo's chief lieutenant.

Attractions

World Heritage Site
In 2008 to the sound of Fireworks and every church bell in town, the announcement was made that San Miguel De Allende had been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

International Community
As Mexico's 'international playground' San Miguel is host to a large number of Americans and Canadians and Europeans that either live in San Miguel or come to visit on a regular basis making important contributions not only to the art scene in San Miguel, but also to the international flavor of San Miguel.

Artist Retreat
The art scene flourishes in San Miguel as the number of gallery's and art classes continue to grow. Classes in painting, sculpture, cooking, and of coarse Spanish prove to be a motivating reason for visitors who choose to come to San Miguel.

Natural Hot Springs
About 15 minutes outside of San Miguel De Allende Visitors will find a number of hot springs including La Gruta. In addition to 3 different pools, La Gruta provides a full restaurant and Spa treatment for visitors looking to relax for the afternoon.

Expresión En Corto
Mexico's largest competitive film festial is entitled Expresión En Corto and is hosted by San Miguel De Allende and the neighboring town of Guanajuato during the end of July. Over 400 films are screened free of charge at this festival