Sites of Interest

The architecture of the 20th-century began to threaten Guadalajara's historical integrity and in an effort to preserve the history and culture of the city the government declared the 30-square-block downtown area a cultural sanctuary. Later a private trust was formed to care for the city's historical monuments. Apart from the city center there are a number of attractions around the city.

Basílica De La Virgen De Zapopan is a huge church, with an ornate facade and a tiled dome. Close to the basilica is Museo Huichol, a small gallery and shop featuring the exquisite handicrafts of the Huichol Indians.

Cathedral: Construction of the cathedral started in the 1500s and it was consecrated in 1618. The yellow-tiled spires were rebuilt in the1800s after it was destroyed by an earthquake. The church is an intriguing mix of Baroque, Gothic, and other styles, as a result of redesign and reconstruction over time.

Casa-Museo López Portillo: The home of the famous López Portillo family now converted into a museum. On display are the personal belongings and works of the writers and politicians of the Lopez family including José López Portillo who was the president of Mexico from 1976 to 1982.

Museo Regional De Guadalajara: This is the State Museum containing artifacts and memorabilia that trace the history of western Mexico

Iglesia De San Agustín: The venerable St. Augustine Church is one of the oldest churches in the city. It has been remodeled many times since it was built. The building adjacent to the church is the School of Music, a part of the University of Guadalajara.

Instituto Cultural Cabañas: The Instituto Cultural Cubanas was designed by the architect Manuel Tolsa and served as orphanage in 1853. It is now a center for music and art with permanant and revolving exhibits. One of Guadalajara's famous artists, Jose Orozco, painted murals and cartoons inside the Cubanas.

Museo De Arqueología De Occidente De México: The Archaeological Museum of Western Mexico houses pottery and other artifacts used by ancient civilizations of the area.

Museo De Cera is a wax museum in the historic downtown area.

Museo De La Ciudad De Guadalajara: Is a series of rooms of a colonial home with informative artwork and artifacts on display along with reproductions of documents about the city's development from pre-Hispanic times through the 20th century.

Museo Del Periodismo Y De Las Artes Gráficas: Is Guadalajara's first printing press. On display are historic newspapers, printing presses, recording equipment, and a complete television studio.

Museo Regional De Guadalajara: This is the State Museum containing artifacts and memorabilia that trace the history of western Mexico.

Palacio De Gobierno, Palacio Municipal, Parque Agua Azul, the Guadalajara Zoo, Planetario Severo Díaz Galindo, Plaza De Los Mariachis, Teatro Degollado, Barranca De Oblatos are a few of the other sites of interest.

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