Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato

Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato (Basilica Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato) is on Plaza de la Paz. Construction of the church began in 1671 and was completed 25 years later, financed by the region's wealthy miners. The baroque-style exterior features an impressive dome and is a beautiful yellow-orange in color. The celebrated image of the Virgin of Guanajuato, brought from Granada, Spain, in 1557, was a gift from King Philip II. Mounted on a pedestal of solid silver, the jewel-bedecked wooden statue is said to date from the seventh century and is considered to be the oldest piece of Christian art in Mexico. The interior also contains magnificent chandeliers, ornamental frescoes and Miguel Cabrera paintings.

Late afternoon is a good time to visit; after viewing the interior, take a stroll around the plaza, where vendors sell grilled corn on the cob, fresh mango slices, souvenirs and handicrafts.