Pénjamo combines religious buildings from different centuries with places of remembrance and distinctive market architecture. Nearby, the archaeological site of Plazuelas and the attractions in Corralejo add to the area’s offerings. When planning, it is therefore worth making a clear distinction: would you like to focus on Pénjamo’s churches and city center, or also include destinations in the municipality?
Temples with different histories
Nuestra Señora de los Remedios is the oldest temple in the city of Pénjamo and dates from the 16th century. Construction of the Santuario de los Remedios began in 1543 and was not completed until 1960. The Parroquia de San Francisco was built in the early 18th century. After it was burned down in 1815, it lost some of its former appearance. Their histories therefore differ in age, the length of time construction took, and the changes brought about by a historical event.
Materials and construction dates offer further clues: the Templo de Guadalupe was built between 1859 and 1869, while the structure of the Templo de San Antonio is made entirely of stone. Pénjamo thus brings together different architectural questions: when a temple was built, how long its construction took, and what material it was made from.
Religious tradition and city history
The people of Pénjamo regard devotion to Our Lady of Remedies as a long-standing and deeply felt tradition. The Parroquia de San Francisco de Asís offers another link to Miguel Hidalgo’s history: his baptismal register is kept there. His parents, Cristóbal Hidalgo and Ana María Gallaga Mandarte, were married at the Parroquia de San Francisco in Pénjamo on August 15, 1750.
The Mercado Hidalgo de Pénjamo makes a different architectural statement. Its portal-like façade features Neoclassical columns, a balustrade and a curved pediment. While the temples’ histories are understood through construction dates and historical events, here it is the interplay of these façade elements that shapes the market’s character. The Auditorio Joaquín Pardavé and Taller Galería Ahuehuete in the city center are also part of the Coordinación Casa de Cultura Plazuelas Pénjamo.
Archaeology and regional attractions nearby
Outside the city, in the surrounding area of Pénjamo, lies the archaeological site of Plazuelas, near the community of Las Plazuelas (San Juan el Alto) in the municipality of Pénjamo. It comprises seven buildings on three hillsides, separated by two ravines: the Barranca de Los Cuijes to the west and the Barranca del Agua Nacida to the east. The site’s location across several hillsides and between two ravines defines its description—a different focus from the religious buildings and façades in the city.
Corralejo de Hidalgo is also outside the city, in the destination’s surrounding area. The interactive Museo Interactivo Hidalgo Niño is located at the Parador Turístico Corralejo in this community within the municipality of Pénjamo. It presents the childhood, origins and formative influences of the priest Hidalgo. Traditional cuisine, typical sweets and regional products are also available at the Parador. Check current visiting arrangements and offerings in Corralejo in advance.
You can therefore consider the city center and the places outside it as different parts of your travel plans without treating them as though they were in the same city area.
Discover more destinations: San Miguel De Allende, San Antonio, Celaya, León De Los Aldama, Silao, Irapuato, Apaseo el Grande, San Luis De La Paz.
For the main travel overview: Guanajuato.
