San Miguel de Allende kicked off its bicentennial celebrations with an inaugural ceremony led by municipal authorities and representatives of the City Council.
During the ceremony, held in the Historic Center, the Municipal Director of Tourism, Tania Castillo, participated on behalf of the mayor. In her remarks, she recalled the origins of the official recognition granted to San Miguel de Allende in the 19th century and the historical process that has shaped the city’s development.
Castillo explained that the city title was granted in 1826 following the efforts of then-President Guadalupe Victoria and the approval of Congress. She noted that this event marked the beginning of a period of growth and consolidation for the city.
She indicated that the history of San Miguel de Allende is linked to the legacy of military officer Ignacio Allende, whom she described as a figure closely tied to the origins of Mexican Independence.
She pointed out that the city’s designation also incorporated the Allende surname as part of its historical identity.
During her speech, the director mentioned various moments that are part of the city’s urban and cultural evolution.
Among them, he recalled the construction of the parish church tower between 1880 and 1890, a structure that forms part of the architectural landscape of the Historic Center.
He also spoke about the international recognition that began to solidify in the 1940s with the arrival of artists and creators who established cultural ties with the city.
He noted that this process helped position San Miguel de Allende as a meeting point for artistic activities.
Castillo recalled the creation of the Wool and Brass Fair in 1970, an event linked to local artisan activity that continues to this day.
Later in his speech, he mentioned the recognition bestowed in 2008, when San Miguel de Allende was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. He noted that this recognition solidified the city’s historical, cultural, and architectural value internationally.
He indicated that the bicentennial celebrations will include cultural activities in the coming months with the participation of artistic delegations from various countries.
The Director of Culture, Acacio Martínez, spoke about the historical significance of San Miguel de Allende within the independence process.
He pointed out that the city is linked to the origin of the movement that led to Mexico’s Independence and mentioned the importance of preserving the historical heritage inherited from previous generations.
Afterward, the commemorative activities were officially opened.
Before the official ceremony, a parade began, winding through the streets of the Historic Center. The procession included flag bearers from invited countries, members of the City Council, giant puppets, and cultural groups.
The route included streets such as Pepe Llanos, Mesones, Juárez, San Francisco, and Relox, ending at the Civic Plaza.
The artistic activities began with a performance by the Fénix Machín Band, from Puebla, who participated in the opening of the cultural program.
After the opening ceremony, the Costa Rican folk dance group “La Lajuela” performed, offering a selection of traditional dances from that country.
According to municipal authorities, cultural activities will continue during the coming weekends with performances by international artistic groups.
Source: oem
