Statue of El Pípila

Statue of El Pípila (Estatua de El Pípila) overlooks Guanajuato from a steep hill to the e. of the Jardín Unión. It immortalizes Juan José Martínez, a miner who set fire to the front door of the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, the massive granary where Spanish Royalists took refuge in 1810 during an attack on the city by Mexican revolutionaries. The dramatic, 30-foot-high figure, bearing a torch, keeps watch over the city below. This vantage point affords an outstanding view of Guanajuato's architectural landmarks.

Buses designated “Pípila” take visitors to the monument; parking for other vehicles is free. El Pípila also is accessible by a steep climb on foot (wear sturdy walking shoes). To get there, take Calle Sopeña east to Callejón del Calvario and watch for the sign that says “Al Pípila.” An incline railway (funicular) takes passengers up the hill to a terminal just below the monument.