'Place of frogs', or Quanax-Huato, is what the Tarascan Indians named it. And 'place of silver' is probably what the Spanish conquistadores would have called this beautiful highland city if they could. Set in a narrow gorge amid wild, breathtaking scenery, and an important centre for mining since the mid-16th century, Guanajuato has long been attracting visitors and, consequently, settlers. Today it's the locals and the many university students who enjoy the elegant buildings, colonial architecture and fine museums of this central Mexican World Heritage site. Take the trouble to negotiate the city's steep, twisted lanes - not forgetting you're at over 2,000m - and you'll come across some stunning buildings, breathtaking views and, last but not least, some great spots to put your feet up and enjoy some well-deserved antojitos, traditional Mexican snacks.
