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Guadalajara is Mexico’s second city, located in 1,567 meters above sea level. Its moderate climate made the city famous as a resort. Its colonization began around 1530. Its historic sites have given the city the nickname “Pearl of the West." “Guadalajara” means a river flanked by stones. A very culturally rich city, Guadalajara is also the hometown of Jose Clemente Orozco, one of the three leaders of the Mexican mural movement. Its downtown boasts a magnificent and colorful cathedral and the University of Guadalajara. The government building near the square showcases murals by Orozco. The city also served as a stage for the nation’s independence movement. Guadalajara is famous for its handicrafts, such as glass crafts, ceramics and leather work. The city has modern industries such as flour milling, spinning and brewing, and is edged with fertile farming areas. The production of tequila earned the region a different fame as well.

Climate

Its lowlands are hot and humid, and the climate of the highlands is mild. From November to May, the region is dry. Its rainy season runs from the end of May to the end of October.

Society & Culture

The early civilizations of Guadalajara included Mayans, Aztecs and Toltecs. Spain’s colonization of the region brought Western civilization and resulted in a mixed civilization. Currently, influences from the United States are getting into the region little by little. People are wary about the United States, but the region is being transformed into a similar society. The people’s ethnicity breaks down into aboriginal (29%), mixed (55%), and whites (15%). Its national leadership is largely held by whites. The people are generally friendly and optimistic, but somewhat exclusive. Their perception of Asians is not bad since Asians are the ancestors of Mexican natives.

Tourist Attractions

• Jalisco State Government Building

  The Jalisco State Government Building fronts the cathedral on Morelos Street. The Jalisco State Capitol, built in the 17th century, is the place where Father Hidalgo made the Emancipation Declaration. In addition, President B. Juarez, the only Indio president in the history of Mexico, was assassinated in the building. Freedom Square is flanked by the cathedral and De Goyado Theater. The theater puts on Mexican folk dance performances every Sunday.

• Mercado Libertad (Liberty Market)

  To the south of the Cabana Orphanage is the Mercado Libertad, which sells various products ranging from folk crafts to food. This market is always refreshing since it sells various types of folk art and delicious food. Going north from the market, you will reach the Glorieta Normal Crossing, which is home to the state-founded Folk Craft Museum. Stores on the first and second floors sell a wide range of products, from furniture to accessories. One corner has textiles produced by the Huichol tribe.

• Lake Chapala

  Lake Chapala is Mexico’s largest lake. The lake is 50km south of Guadalajara and an 80-minute drive from Guadalajara. The lake is fringed by many hotels and restaurants. A cruise ship sails on the lake. Near the lake are Ajijic, famous for folk crafts and villas, and Jocotepec, which produces textiles.

History of Exchanges