By David Harris
Guadalajara, located in the state of Jalisco, is
Mexico's second largest city. Though a thoroughly modern city, Guadalajara is still has roots in its past as numerous offices, bars and museums are housed in colonial style buildings. Birthplace to Mexico's famous Mariachis and tequila, Guadalajara is also a haven for those seeking folk art and music. Whether you want to listen to traditional music or grab a taco from a street vendor, Guadalajara has much to offer any visitor.
Cathedral
Guadalajara's Cathedral is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Consecrated in 1618, the Cathedral is a mix of Churrigueresque, baroque and neoclassical architectures. The Cathedral's original towers were destroyed in a 1818, its new towers, built in 1848, loom over the city. Inside, you can visit the Cathedral's vaults and eleven altars donated by King Fernando VII of Spain. In a glass case near the north entrance are the hands and blood of Santa Inocencia, one of Mexico's most famous martyrs. Also available by request is one of Spanish artist Bartolomé Murillo's paintings, La Asunción de la Virgen.
Cathedral
Plaza de Armas
between Morelos & Av Hidalgo, Av 16 de Septiembre, city center
Plaza de los Mariachis
The Plaza de los Mariachis is where the now famous music, featuring violins, trumpet, guitar and harps began. Located near the Templo Santa Eduviges close to the intersection of Av Juarez and Calz Insurgentes, mariachi musicians come to this plaza in the hopes of being hired. It is not uncommon to see men in the traditional mariachi outfits waiting around, chatting on cell phones or drinking a soda while waiting for a patron. At night, the plaza becomes energized as people arrive to drink beer and hire the groups by the song.
Tlaquepaque
Tlaquepaque is Guadalajara's upscale shopping district, a haven of pedestrian streets, fancy shops and restaurants. Among the wares for sale include sculpture, furniture, leather, paintings, jewelry and wood work. However, this is not an area where you can barter or get cheap goods. The craftsmen in Tlaquepaque make high quality goods and the prices reflect that. During the 19th century, Tlaquepaque was home to many mansions and today restaurants, hotels and art galleries fill these historic buildings. The area is especially busy on Sundays when many Guadalajara residents come here for lunch.
About the Author:
David Harris is a writer living in Portland, Ore. He currently is the editor-in-chief of the online magazine Spectrum Culture. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College.
