Guadalajara, as described by a local.
A short descriptive text about the uniqueness of La Perla Tapatía.
From Ximena Aranguren.
Photo by Pablo A. Arias Cid.
Documental, action and underwater photography and video producer, with a huge interest in culture, traditions and sports, complementing this passions with a love of being outdoors and capturing it on camera from land, aire and underwater.
Guadalajara, better known as La Perla Tapatía, is one of the most important cultural and artistic epicenters in Mexico. This megalopolis with provincial soul is endearing and complex in all its nuances as are its locals, referred to as “tapatíos”.
The city’s architecture is rich for its convergence of different styles, from French-style mansions to Chinese pagodas. Guadalajara is recognized for its beautiful colonial architecture, impressive Cathedral, the Hospicio Cabañas, amazing murals of Jalisco's famous artist, Jose Clemente Orozco, and vibrant folklore that can be seen and felt in every corner. The man catching fire mural found at the Cabañas Cultural Center floats suspended in space, similar to Goeritz's Firebird that surrounds an urban complex by Luis Barragán. In recent years, Guadalajara's gastronomic offer has boomed, becoming a food paradise for any Mexican cuisine lover and home to some of the best dishes in the country: birria, pozole, tacos al pastor, and, of course, tortas ahogadas!
And speaking of culture, Guadalajara is famous for being the birthplace of Mariachi music and Jalisco's state dance: el jarabe tapatío, also known as the Mexican Hat Dance. The city’s art scene has been transformed in recent decades thanks to its plethora of art galleries, murals, live music, and production hubs Cerámica Suro and Taller de Gobelinos that have attracted collectors and artists from all over the world. Guadalajara hosts events such as GDL Art Weekend, GDL International Film Festival, GDL International Book Fair (second largest in the world) and other globally renowned cultural events which draw crowds from everywhere.
While conservative, Guadalajara is also an LGBTQ+ destination and home to newcomers and immigrants from all over the world. Its lively nightlife is something you can’t miss; bars and clubs offer everything from live music and salsa dancing to electronic music and shows catering to every community.
Guadalajara is a taste of authentic Mexican culture, and, of course, the best tequila you’ll ever have. This city will never cease to surprise locals nor visitors.
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Ximena is an architect from Guadalajara based in Mexico City with a master in Architectural History & Theory from Mcgill University. Writer and home designer. Former nomad who has lived in San Diego California, Quebec, Montreal and Paris. Bike-packer who loves good coffee and food.
