Historic church in Dolores Hidalgo, Mexico
Two hundred years ago on Sept. 16, Padre Miguel Hidalgo rang the bells of his church in
Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, and launched the 1810 Mexican War of Independence against the Spanish colonial rule. Just a few weeks ago, I visited this church.
Located over a mile above sea level in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, Dolores retains its colonial charm with Padre Hidalgo’s church and bells, which are still there today. Dolores is also great place to shop— the area is known for ceramics, handcrafts, antiques and leather goods.
Compared to nearby
San Miguel de Allende, Dolores’ prices are better overall. Shops surround the main plaza that faces the church. For the best prices, ask for directions to
Guanajuato— it’s only about 12 blocks away. You’ll go by an area full of bazaar stalls that line the street with quality merchandise and low prices. I bought a 4-by-5-foot mirror of intricate hand-worked tin for $23 (U.S).
While in Dolores, I evaluated the Two Diamond restaurant,
El Caruaje del Caudillo. The restaurant is large, bright and dominated by a long wall of classic Dolores hand-painted tiles.
I had an oversized club sandwich with fries. The sandwich was good, but the fries stole the show. When was the last time you had truly crisp french fries where you actually heard the light, crispy sound as you bit into them? I know it’s a heck of a statement, but those were perhaps the best fries I’ve had anywhere— hand-cut, PERFECTLY fried and served hot ‘a la minute.’
You can visit the
Hidalgo House Museum for insight into the life and times of Padre Hidalgo and try some of Dolores’ famous ice cream sold at the plaza with strange flavors like shrimp, lard and mole in addition to fresh strawberry, lime and pistachio.
In addition to El Carauje del Caudillo, the
Parador Don Jose and the
Restaurante Plaza are also AAA Approved restaurants, as well as the local hotel,
Hotel Hidalgo.
Stop by and join Mexico’s 200th birthday party!
