You can reach the beautiful city of Dolores Hidalgo by the federal highway 110 in the State of Guanajuato in Mexico, place where Miguel Hidalgo proclaimed Mexico’s Independence
Dolores Hidalgo
Pre Hispanic artifacts such as ceramic and stone instrument have been discovered in the area surrounding the city of Dolores Hidalgo, near the Laja River.
The history of Dolores Hidalgo is closely tied to the Hacienda de la Erre, which was founded in 1710 by Viceroy Marques de Montecarlos for cattle raising. However, prior to the creation of the hcienda, Viceroy Enriquez de Almanza had established the Congregation of Nuestra Señora Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrows) in 1570. Father Don Alvaro de Osio y Ocampo then enlarged the facility by purchasing neighboring lands. These lands formed the boundaries of the original City.
In September 16, 1810, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave the “Exclamation of Independence”; which began the uprising the Spanish. Thus, the city of Dolores Hidalgo became known as “The Cradle of National Independence”. Father Hidalgo y Costilla also helped develop local industry, such as ceramics, carpentry and textiles. As well, he began the planting of mulberry trees and vineyards, started and trained farmers and craftsmen. Promoting social and economic development in the community, resulted in strong local support for the Mexican Independence Movement.
In 1940, Lazaro Cardenas was the first Mexican President to initiate the traditional “Exclamation of Independence” which takes place every 15th of September in the atrium of the Parish Church of Dolores Hidalgo. A light and sound show is put on each Saturday at 9:00 pm. and displays highlights of the “Exclamation of Independence”.
Main places to visit in Dolores de Hidalgo
House of Don Miguel Hidalgo
Also known as the “House of Tithe” this beautiful colonial building dates back to 1779. The country’s founding father Miguel Hidalgo lived here from 1804 to 1810. It now exhibits historical objects, furniture and Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 am. to 5:45 pm.
Independence Museum
This national monument was built in the 18th Century and was originally used as a prison. On September 16th, 1810, Hidalgo freed the inmates, who then joined him on his crusade for freedom.
It contains historical objects, works of art, as well as an homage to Jose Alfredo Jimenez. Born in Dolores Hidalgo, Jose Alfredo Jimenez is considered to be one of the most outstanding exponents of Mexican mariachi music. Open Friday to Wednesday 9:00 am. to 5:00 pm.
Our Lady of Sorrows Parish Church
A beautiful example of 18th Century architecture, its churrigueresque facade was painstakingly caved in rose colored quarry stone. Each year the traditional “Exclamation of Independence” is given from the atrium of this church.
Parish Church of the Assumption
Built at the end of he 19th Century, this church exhibits a variety of architectural styles; the portico is Greco-Roman, the main altar is Etruscan and the steeple is Gothic in style. The church also houses paintings by Don Pedro Ramirez.
Church of the Third Order
This small church is one of the oldest in the city, dating back to 1755. The facade of the church is baroque in style.
Visitors House
The Sub-delegate for the Spanish government originally lived here in 1786. The facade consists of six arches over which stone carved balconies were erected. In 1940, the house was acquired by the state government and converted into a residence for visiting dignitaries. Every five years the current Mexican President stays here when giving the “Exclamation of Independence”
House of Abasolo
Insurgent hero Mariano Abasolo was born here in 1784. In 1906 the government purchased the house and converted it into the Mayor’s Office.
Hidalgo Monument
This bronze monument was erected on September 16, 1891 in honor of the Father of Mexican Independence, Miguel Hidalgo. The Sculpture was designed by Miguel Noreña, who was a sculptor and teacher at the School of Fine Arts.
Jose Alfredo Jimenez Mausoleum
Famed Mexican singer and composer Jose Alfredo Jimenez is buried here. The mausoleum was restored to commemorate the 25th anniversary of this death.
Erre Hacienda: Located 8 kms. southeast of Dolores, Hacienda de la Erre is considered one of the oldest in the country and was the first headquarters of the Insurgent Army.
Monument to the Heroes of the Independence
Designed by sculptor Jorge Gonzalez and architect Carlos Obregon Santacilla, this monument was built to commemorate the heroes of the Independence; Hidalgo, Allende, Aldama and Morelos.
Convention and Business Development Center
This modern building is located in Colonia 15 de Septiember. Throughout the year a variety of handicraft exhibitions are held here, highlighting the works of local and state renowned artists.
Celebrations and Festivals in Dolores Hidalgo:
September Independence Festivities
These traditional Mexican patriotic celebrations last the entire month of September and include a variety of cultural, artistic and sporting events. The most important of the event stakes place on the evening of September 15th when the “Exclamation of Independence” is given from the atrium of the Parish Church.
Holy Conception Celebration
These celebrations are held from November 28 to December 8 each year. During this time religious processions are held along with fireworks displays. Also, stalls are set up to sell Mexican food.
Friday before Good Friday
Virgen de los Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrows) is the patron saint of Dolores Hidalgo and the locals display their devotion by erecting elaborate altars in her name through the streets of the city.
Holy Week
This celebration is held in March or April and begins with the dedication of altars to the Virgen de los Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrows) and concludes with a silent procession through the streets of the city
Handicraft Expo
This Expo is held in March or April, July, September and December and highlights the vast number of handicrafts that are available in this city, such as ceramics, talavera style pottery and carved wooden furniture, to name a few.
Conclusion
Dolores de Hidalgo is part of the state of Guanajuato and makes an incredible vacation match with the city of 👉Irapuato Mexico and 👉 Celaya Mexico. This means that you can’t miss the opportunity to get to know these two great tourist places in Mexico.
