San Miguel de Allende is the oldest city in central Mexico. It was founded in 1542 by Fray Juan de San Miguel a Franciscan missionary. Fray Juan de San Miguel is called "The cradle of the national independence". In 1982 San Miguel became a national monument and historical site protected by the National Institute of History and Anthropology (INAH). San Miguel is a colonial gem that inspires and charms visitors into staying. The magazine "Travel and Leisure" published in its January 2002 edition a section on San Miguel de Allende, based on their survey as one on the 10 top most desirable and favorite cities to visit. Conde Nast Traveler's in its edition 2000 placed San Miguel as the 12th favorite city in the world to visit. San Miguel continues to be a small Mexican town with a cosmopolitan touch. It mixes folklore, religious and social fiestas as well as crafts and art in a variety of styles. San Miguel has narrow cobbled stone streets surrounded by adobe walls and colonial buildings that house excellent international restaurants, hotels and most importantly a very highly respected community of international artists and writers. San Miguel de Allende is known to be very safe, walking down its streets during the day or night one can be sure that it will be a pleasant walk. For more information on San Miguel de Allende visit: