The Parroquia of San Miguel Arcangel

Casa Misión is just steps through an enchanting walkway to the historic center of San Miguel de Allende, a colonial jewel in the heart of Mexico....

The pace of another era, one only found now in Mexico’s non-urban centers, is still strictly upheld in San Miguel. The streets in the Centro are still cobblestoned preventing rapid traffic. Shops close and the town goes home for a leisurely lunch and nap from 2 'til 4 every afternoon. Bugambilia spills over walls which house surprising flower and fountain-filled patios–many of which house grand and small restaurants and hotels. Occasional burros make their leisurely way through the streets carrying their wares for sale. If you walk too quickly you will have to step up and down steep sidewalks in order to pass by the rest of us who enjoy a more relaxed rhythm.

Groups of intellectuals and artists meet over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine or a poetry reading in the gardens and magnificent buildings daily. Artesans from all over Mexico bring their wares here to San Miguel. The best in talavera ceramic ware, glass and brass, hand-painted lacquer items, textiles, clothing traditional or modern in design, antiques and contemporary art items can be found here for taking back or taking home.

San Miguel de Allende is a piece of the past which permanently resides in the present. Be careful how long you stay or, like the rest of us, you may never want to leave.