Car Hire Dolores Hidalgo - Mini guide to Dolores Hidalgo

Today the atmosphere in the scenic town of Dolores Hidalgo is a far cry from the scene in 1810 when the priest, Father Hidalgo, roused the Indian population in Mexico to rise against their Spanish overlords and claim their independence from Spain. The event is commemorated enthusiastically every September 15.

The House of Don Miguel Hidalgo, where Mexico's founding father lived from 1804 to 1810, is the town's major attraction and now contains memorabilia of his life. Nearby is the Independence Museum, which dates from the 18th century and was originally a prison from which Hidalgo freed the inmates in 1810. Now it houses historical objects and a display on Jose Alfredo Jiminez, known as the founder of Mariachi music.

There are also a number of churches and historic buildings which are worth a visit. Our Lady of Sorrows Parish Church is a beautiful example of 18th century architecture carved in rose coloured quarry stone. Also visit the baroque Church of the Third Order, which dates from 1755 .

Food lovers should try the famous Dolores ice cream. The corners of the main plaza are thronged with vendors who try to outdo each other with weird and wonderful flavours. Some of the variations which will either tingle or repulse your taste buds are: corn, avocado, fried pork skin, tequila or perhaps the strangest - shrimp flavoured. Additionally, Dolores Hidalgo is internationally famous for the production and design of Talavera pottery, and small factories and ceramic shops line the town's streets.

Daytrips by car to the other cities which make up the colonial silver mining trail are worthwhile. These once thriving towns nestle against the spectacular back-drop of the Sierra Madre Mountains and give a glimpse of a bygone era. The smallest but one of the most beautiful cities is San Miguel de Allende, which has cobbled narrow streets and a colourful church, as well as many good restaurants and craft shops. The towns of Guanajuato and Zacatecas resemble medieval settlements with their quiet streets and tiny plazas; while Querataro and San Luis Potosi boast broad plazas and grand architecture.

By car from Baijo, take Highway 110 northeast to Dolores Hidalgo. Regular buses depart from Mexico City and Leon. Bajio International Airport in the city of Leon is the most convenient airport; however, Mexico City is the main point of entry for international flights.