Description: Even without knowing the history of this building, the first encounter gives the visitor a sense of awe. This structure was built in 1809 and became the central symbol at the beginning of Mexico's fight for independence from Spain, which began one year later.
Father Miguel Hidalgo of the nearby city of Dolores was the spokesman who proclaimed Mexico's Independence. Almost immediately, the citizens of Guanajuato lay siege to this building and its garrison of Spanish soldiers. A local miner, now known as Pipila, martyred himself to help the citizens gain entry into the building. This was the first major battle in the war of Independence.
Now, the Alhondiga serves as a museum. It houses many historical documents from the time of the war for independence, from the years in which Guanajuato served as the capital of the country, and other artifacts. The museum is now open to the public from 10am to 1:30pm and 4 to 5:30pm Tuesday through Saturday, and from 10am-2:30pm on Sunday. There is a nominal fee of $5 pesos for entrance.
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