About Us...
The Instituto
Miguel de Cervantes, founded in 1981, is Guanajuato's
first Spanish school. It provides intensive language study and
a practical language-immersion experience for individuals and
groups. At the Institute, you will benefit from small classes,
individualized instruction, and our proven teaching methods. In
addition, you will learn about Mexican history, literature, and
art—and you can even try your hand at Mexican cooking and Latin
dancing, if you are so inclined.
We also offer basic
language programs for larger groups, as well as specialized programs
for professionals (Spanish for Teachers, Spanish for Medical Personnel,
Spanish for Social Workers, etc.).
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Our Facilities
The Institute is located in the shadow of the historic
Valenciana Mine (still operating), one of the greatest silver mines
in all of colonial Latin America. Our physical
facilities are unmatched in Guanajuato, offering spectacular
views of the city, airy classrooms with natural light, tranquil
flower gardens, meandering walkways with fountains and natural benches,
and numerous nooks and crannies for contemplation or group discussion
(in Spanish, of course).
Why Guanajuato?
The city of Guanajuato was founded in 1554. It became
one the richest of Mexico's colonial cities because of the vast
silver deposits found in the surrounding mountains. Several silver
mines are still operating and are open for tours.
The legacy of Guanajuato's
riches is reflected in the fine colonial architecture that graces
many of the buildings in the city's historic center. Today, Guanajuato
is a medium-sized city of 95,000 inhabitants and is home to the
University of Guanajuato, whose students bring a youthful exuberance
to the city's restaurants, cafes, and public spaces. The presence
of the University also enriches the city's cultural life, with weekly
symphony concerts, regularly scheduled lectures and seminars open
to the public, and callejoneadas every Thursday through Sunday.
These evening musical walks through the streets of Guanajuato are
led by estudiantinas, student musicians and singers. The
estudiantina tradition is rooted in Andalucía, Spain, and
was transplanted to Guanajuato in 1972. It has become a unique attraction
in this compact city of narrow streets and steep, twisting alleyways.
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