Guanajuato

Guanajuato's wealth came from the rich mineral deposits in the surrounding mountains. Its mines were among the most important in the Americas during the colonial period, alongside those of Zacatecas in Mexico, Potosí in Bolivia, and Ouro Preto in Brazil. One of these mines, Valenciana Mine, was responsible for two-thirds of the world's silver production at the height of its output. For this reason, the UNESCO designation applies to the Historic Town and Adjacent Mines.

The city is also home to the Mummy Museum, which houses naturally mummified bodies found in the municipal cemetery between the mid-19th and 20th centuries. It is likewise home to the Festival Internacional Cervantino, which attracts artists and performers from Mexico and around the world.