Founded in 1542 by Juan de Oñate, Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city with a population of approximately 4 million people. The city's colonial center, which is comprised of four large plazas surrounding a 16th century cathedral, is evidence of the city's long history as an important commercial and cultural center. In the central plazas you will find beautiful gardens and fountains, magnificent churches and government buildings, and abundant public sculptures.

While Guadalajara prides itself on maintaining its reputation as Mexico's most traditional city, it has established itself as a modern and efficient metropolitan area. Today lavish colonial buildings stand side-by-side with ultra-contemporary structures housing communications, computer, and other high-tech industries. Tapatíos (as residents of Guadalajara like to be called) and tourists alike enjoy this combination of tradition and modernity, because it provides urban advantages without the anonymity and overwhelming size typical of many large cities.

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