If you want to study Spanish in Mexico, Guanajuato is the ideal place to do it.

For more than 200 years, Guanajuato was one of the world's richest cities, producing 20% of the world's silver in its heyday.

Guanajuato today is colonial jewel, with lovely stone buildings and cathedrals, broad plazas and well-manicured gardens, and narrow alleyways lined with flower-draped, wrought-iron balconies.

Many of its cobblestone streets are free of traffic, thanks to a network of underground tunnels that channel cars and buses under the city center.

Guanajuato state's rich past brims with Mexican revolutionaries, artists, and politicians.

Father Miguel Hidalgo, the great Mexican rebel, was born here and began Mexico's independence movement in nearby Dolores Hidalgo. Guanajuato's Juan José de los Reyes Martínez, also known as La Pipila, set the blaze that allowed rebel forces to win the first battle of the independence movement.

The artist Diego Rivera was born and raised in Guanajuato city, and his childhood home is preserved as a museum dedicated to his life and art. And Vicente Fox was elected president of Mexico in 2000 after a successful tenure as Guanajuato state's governor.

You can learn about Guanajuato's history, enjoy art from colonial to modern times, and even view a rare collection of mummies in the city's many museums.

As home to the University of Guanajuato, the city has long been a center of learning and culture. You can enjoy plays, symphonies, concerts and lectures at one of three renowned theatres.

Its student population also lends a lively, bohemian edge. A favorite pastime here is exploring the city's eclectic restaurants, relaxing cafes, and a vibrant nightlife.

Guanajuato also hosts festivals throughout the year, including the world-famous International Cervantino Festival held every October. Artists, musicians and visitors from around the globe come to Guanajuato to celebrate the works of Cervantes and enjoy a variety of entertainment.

For more detailed information on Guanajuato, go to the city's official website (available in both English and Spanish) at http://www.guanajuato.gob.mx.