UNIVERSIDAD CUAHTEMOC

ESSAY OF MY CITY

14/11/2024
Ivanna E. Ruiz Cazarez
English
3rd semester
 Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco and the Mexico’s second largest city, is a fascinating mix

between tradition, innovation, and cultural pride. Known as "La Perla Tapatía" or the "Pearl of the

West," Guadalajara has a long history that dates to the 16th century, making it one of Mexico's

most historic and culturally influential cities. With its charming colonial architecture, bustling public

squares, and dynamic arts scene, Guadalajara beautifully combines the old and the new, giving

the city a unique character that captures the essence of Mexican life. Has emerged as a melting

pot of Mexican society yet plays a pivotal role in the economy, culture, and customs of the nation.

The city is very important to the culture of Mexico as it’s like the cradle of mariachi and tequila,

both of which are strong icons valued by Mexicans and are appreciated across the globe.

As a person who lives in Guadalajara 5 years ago, I can say that I don’t really know the city

very well and I believe that is people that born here that don’t know very well the city in general,

for that reason it’s important to do research of the city, to know well this beautiful city as it

deserved. In this essay we are going to see the history of Guadalajara and explore the beauty of

this city and with it, we will understand why is one of the most loved cities in Mexico.

First of all, we need to know the history of this beautiful city, Guadalajara was founded in a

very complicated manner. The conquest of what is now Jalisco started in 1522 by the first Spanish

conquistadors, led by Cristóbal de Olid. Then, in 1530, Nuño Beltrán de Guzmán tried to win the

area and later named it Guadalajara, after his hometown in Spain. The city went through four

relocations before settling permanently in the Valley of Atemajac in 1542.

During the colonial era, Guadalajara did not develop very much; it obtained the title of capital

in 1560, at the same time that Nueva Galicia received its title. In the 17th century, it developed
religiously and culturally with various religious orders marking their presence in it. During the 18th

century, the city was quite successful economically and intellectually, and even attracted notable

figures such as Francisco Xavier Clavijero. Bishop Fray Antonio Alcalde also arrived in 1771 to

found the Civil Hospital and the University of Guadalajara.

Mexican Independence took part in Guadalajara, where in 1810 Miguel Hidalgo abolished

slavery. During the 19th century, such figures like Prisciliano Sánchez and Valentín Gómez Farías,

among others, shaped the independent Mexican nation. President Benito Juárez briefly moved his

government there in 1858, and by the late century, it was transformed with a cultural renaissance

and the Degollado Theater.

During the government of Porfirio Díaz, in the early 20th century, Guadalajara developed its

architecture and infrastructure. During the Mexican Revolution, social rather than military changes

affected the city, and under Governor José Guadalupe Zuno land reform and education were

promoted. By the midpoint of the century, it was the turn of the artist José Clemente Orozco to

leave his mark in murals; later, the city would play the role of cinema.

Guadalajara hosted the 1970 and 1986 World Cup, and the first International Book Fair ever

held, in 1987. In 2011, the city was selected to host the Pan American Games and has grown into

the 21st century as a metropolitan area with over 4 million residents. Nowadays, Guadalajara is

referred to as a city with a warm community, offering a great quality of life and serving as one of

Latin America's cultural and innovative capitals.

places to visit in Guadalajara most of these are Guadalajara’s historic center, with its well-

preserved colonial architecture, beautiful plazas, and grand cathedrals, offers a glimpse into its

storied past, while modern areas like Chapultepec and Zapopan reflect the city’s contemporary

energy. The city is also famous for hosting major events like the Guadalajara International Book

Fair, the largest of its kind in the Spanish-speaking world, as well as the International Film Festival,

both of which draw global attention. Its bustling tech industry has earned it the nickname "Silicon

Valley of Mexico," making Guadalajara a central hub for innovation and economic growth in Latin

America. some of the typical representative icons include: Teatro Degollado: beautiful architecture,

featuring Apollo and the Nine Muses in relief, this theater is a key venue for the city's opera

festival.

Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres: This 17-columned, round monument dates from 1952

and symbolizes many of the famous Jaliscienses who were outstanding in the spheres of arts,

science, and literature. Cathedral: Architecturally neoclassical, with neo-gothic inputs, its twin neo-

gothic towers have tiling at the top, ending in a floral curve resembling an upside-down calla lily.

Hospicio Cabañas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains 23 patios, two temples, and

houses the murals of José Clemente Orozco. It functions as a cultural center. Palacio de Gobierno

is a 17th-century structure that contains impressive Orozco murals inside. Natural beauty abounds

nearby, too, in the Bosque de la Primavera, Los Colomos, and the Huentitán Canyon, giving

Guadalajara a share. In the main building of the University of Guadalajara, the Museo de las Artes

is not to be missed, with two Orozco murals, an exhibit of local art on permanent display, as well

as shifting art installations. A host of recreational activities organized by locals complements the

vibrant experience of the city.

roots in colonial heritage, role in Mexican independence, and continued growth over the centuries

have shaped it into a city that is not only rich in tradition but also forward-looking. The city's

landmarks, from the historic Teatro Degollado and Hospicio Cabañas to the bustling cultural

festivals, make it a true embodiment of Mexican heritage. Its dedication to arts, education, and

community values has cultivated a unique character that attracts people from all over the world.

Today, Guadalajara offers more than just beautiful sights; it provides a glimpse into the heart of

Mexican identity with its proud traditions of mariachi and tequila, along with a deep sense of

warmth and community that residents and visitors alike can feel. As a growing metropolis with a

rich cultural and economic presence, Guadalajara continues to be a shining symbol of Mexican

resilience, creativity, and hospitality. For those who visit or live here, Guadalajara is more than just

a place; it's an experience, one that offers a deep connection to the past and a lively promise for

the future.

References:
Guadalajara, G. (n.d.). Gobierno de Guadalajara. Gob.Mx. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from
https://guadalajara.gob.mx/gdlWeb/#/historia
Guadalajara. (n.d.). Udg.mx. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from
http://ci.cgai.udg.mx/es/estudiantes/externos/llegada_mx/Guadalajara