This lovely town is located about 7kms southeast of the center of Guadalajara. Initially a small village, Tlaquepaque is one of the three municipalities that surround the city of Guadalajara. The second city of Mexico, Guadalajara, has a population of 1.6 million inhabitants, Zapopan (to the northwest of Guadalajara) has around 920,000 inhabitants, Tlaquepaque has a population of 460,000 and finally Tonala has around 315,000 inhabitants.

Tlaquepaque, meaning ‘a site comprised of hills of pottery clay’ is traditionally the most visited part of the Guadalajara metropolitan area. Its stone paved paths and plazas give the town a comfortable and picturesque feel. You will enjoy walking around the area, discovering galleries and finding lovely restaurants.

Historically Tlaquepaque was a small village, before the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, specializing in pottery and ceramics. As times changed, the village grew as it became the first stop on the long road between Mexico City and the ‘Jewel of the West’- Guadalajara.

Interestingly, you can visit the very place that, on June 13th, 1821, the authorities and the people of Guadalajara declared themselves in favor of the Independence of Mexico. A fundamental point in Mexicos struggle for independence and consequent revolution.

Fast forward to present day and Tlaquepaque has grown into a lovely, thriving community that is obviously linked to its important neighbor, Guadalajara- but yet it continues to retain its own, small town feel and warmth. The recently renovated downtown area boasts the beautiful Hidalgo gardens and bandstand, two beautiful churches, built in the 1870’s and some lovely art.

The Parián is located next to the central Jardin Hidalgo, one of the townspeoples favourite spots, and Hidalgo market. The Parián presents typical Mexican dancing two times every day, and offers visitors the opportunity to drink a typical Mexican ‘Michelada’ whilst watching the entertainment or even listening to one of the Mariachi bands.

The El Refugio Cultural center is a definite must for students to visit. Originally a hospital, its colonial style construction of 1859 has been retained although nowadays, you are more likely to see art exhibitions rather than recovery wards! The municipality has taken over the running of the Refugio and its acts as a tourist and exhibition centre.

Independence street takes visitors from the central downtown to Niños heroes and a fitting monument to the saviors of Mexico, against the American invasion on 13th September 1847. This street is now a pedestrianised zone full of shops, restaurants and museums. The shops focus on the rich Tlaquepaque ceramic industry as well as selling handmade glass wares, bronze artifacts, paper-mache ornaments, embroidered clothing and traditional Mexican handmade candy. The Museo Regional de la Cerámica (Regional Ceramics museum) is a worthwhile visit, as is the Paco Padilla ceramic shop which beautifully displays and sells wonderfully inspired ceramic mariachis. Of course, the street vendors and weekend markets are well worth visiting too.

A hop-on, hop-off tourist bus now links Tlaquepaque to other interesting destinations in Guadalajara, such as the distinctive twin towered cathedral, Instituto Cultural Cabañas (an interesting museum), San Juan de Dios market and even the Glorieta Minerva with its impressive fountains and statue of the Roman Goddess. Should you want to adventure around the town and the city of Guadalajara yourself, there are taxis available and several buses. Of course, the coordinators and your teachers at school will be more than happy to help you and guide you on the public transport. Just ask!

Culturlingua prides itself on the personal attention it provides for its students. We are very proud of our school, and our links in the community. If there is anything you may need, or want to do- and you would like some help, we are here! We want you to have a great time here at the school. In reality your trip is not solely about learning Spanish, its about living the culture, meeting people, seeing Mexico and enjoying your time here. We can and will help in anyway possible. Its our commitment to you, our promise to do anything possible to ensure you have the best experience possible while you’re here, as our guests.

Tlaquepaque is a safe place to visit. Downtown Tlaquepaque has ‘security points’ for information and case of emergencies. Additionally, the police are always patrolling, in cars, on bikes and on foot. Of course, you should be aware of your surroundings and situation, but students have not had problems and have felt reassured by the police presence in and around Tlaquepaque.

Should you have time these are some other places to visit:

	The Tonala ceramic street markets
	The Basilica of Zapopan
	The Primavera forest
	Lake Chapala
	Tequilla

 

For the even more adventurous amongst you, maybe consider visiting the above places. These are approximate distances from Tlaquepaque. The main bus station is located 15 minutes from the school, and from there you can take a bus to almost any part of the Republic!