Teatro Juarez in Guanajuato

It was a bit overcast in San Miguel de Allende when we left that morning but in Guanajuato, the sky could not have been any bluer.  Above is my group gathered around a sculpture of a Cervantes singer.

The Juarez Teatro (theater) is considered to be one of the most beautiful theaters in Mexico.  It is right in the heart of Guanajuato in front of the Jardin Union.  Construction began in 1872 and was completed in 1903.  The roof is crowned with a balustrade and eight large bronze sculptures of Greek Muses: Calliope, Clio, Erato, Euterpe, Melpomene, Polyhymnia, Thalia, Terpsichore and Urania.

The portico features Roman Doric columns in cantera stone with fluted shafts that have a capital of carved lyres (stringed musical instruments).

As you enter, you will encounter a most charming, old fashion ticket window complemented with an antique clock.  The lobby is very Art Deco. 



The entry has a large foyer with a beautiful wood bar with intricate inlay.

The five seating levels are adorned in an arabesque detail, each with iron banisters.  Behind the red curtain is a a panorama of Constantinople.  Unfortunately we did not see it. 

 Ricardo is telling us some of the history of the Teatro.  The seats are orignal and are very comfortable.  Actually, this is the only theater in Mexico that has conserved its original furnishings.

At one time, this was the smoking room.  The men were in this area and the women had their own separate corridor.  I like how one could sit on the round settees and be able to see the people behind you with the help of the big mirror.

Ricardo is telling us that the Teatro's grand room was used for all sorts of celebrations, such as the "Quinceanara," the 15th birthday coming-of-age celebration.  The floor used to be all wood.  I like how Matina is checking out the new glass block flooring.

I love the glass flooring.  I think the whole building is pretty cool and next time, I would love to go to one of the performances in October when the International Cervantes Festival is in full swing.

Join me on my next tour, June 7 - 13 in 2011, and check out the Teatro first hand.