Located 540 km (335 mi) northwest of
Mexico City, Guadalajara is the proud state capital of Jalisco and the second
most populated city in Mexico. Blessed with excellent temperatures ranging from
11º to 26º C (52º to 79º F), Guadalajara ranks among Mexico’s three most
important cities and it is home to some of the nation’s most important cultural
symbols (mariachi, tequila, the hat dance and Mexican rodeos). Among its main
draws is the magnificent architecture of its historic and religious buildings,
in particular that of the Hospicio Cabañas, which houses murals of artist Jose Clemente
Orozco and was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. The city is also
known for its beautiful parks and surrounding natural areas, such as el Bosque
la Primavera (the Primavera Forest), often referred to as the city’s lungs. In
addition, there’s the Parque Metropolitano, where you can do camping and
ecotourism outings, as well as all kinds of sports activities. Finally,
Guadalajara stands out for its warm hospitality, well earning its reputation as
the Pearl of the West.
In the downtown historic center you
can visit the cathedral, known for its emblematic towers. Behind the cathedral
lies the Teatro Degollado (Degollado Theater), a monumental 19th-century
building and one of the city’s main cultural arts venues. Near Guadalajara is Zapopan,
the most important religious center in Mexico’s western region. Or you can
visit nearby Tonala, the pottery capital of Jalisco and the only city in the
nation where more than 10 traditional techniques are used to make various
crafts. Also relatively close is the magical Lake Chapala, and the picturesque town
of Tequila, where Mexico’s most famous drink is produced. And in Guadalajara you’ll
always find a vibrant nightlife in the various bars and restaurants, where you
can also enjoy a delicious torta ahogada (a roll filled with pork and bathed in
hot sauce), pozole and the traditional sounds of mariachi mu
