The BARRANCA and the ZOO are
located near each other. Actually the Zoo is located on the edge of the Barranca
which is a 2000+ foot gorge cut deep into the heart of the earth
by centuries of a river eroding through the earth. It is similar
in appearance to the Grand Canyon minus the color. As the
elevation descends to the bottom, the climate becomes more
tropical and fruits such as papayas, guavas, and mangoes are
grown and shipped to market in Guadalajara.
A great
viewing area of the canyon can be witnessed at a park at the end of the road that goes in
front of the zoo. The road ends at the canyon and then you walk through the park to the
viewing platforms. The canyon and zoo are about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi from the historic
section. In fact, you can actually see the ridges of the canyon from the top of some of
the buildings in downtown Guadalajara. Looking for these ridges, however, is a waste of
time on most days due to the severe air pollution that plagues this high elevation city.
The Zoo is located about 3/4 of a mile from the end of the road that ends at the canyon.
It covers 100 acres and also affords excellent views of the canyon. There probably isn't
any need to go to the park and view the canyon as there are viewing platforms at the zoo.
However, while providing excelling views, they are limited in there scope of the entire
canyon and you may be left thirsting for more views of this incredible gorge. If this is
the case, then by all means go to the viewing platforms at the park.
I don't usually make a practice of visiting zoos when I am in the states. This zoo was
recommended to me and after visiting it I can say it is comparable to zoos in the United
States. There was nothing spectacular about it except the views of the canyon. The zoo
contains many large mammals, an excellent display of birds and snakes, and monkeys. Right
next to the zoo is a large amusement park with many many rides. I was there on Christmas
Day and the amusement park was packed with people. The weather was in the high 70's.
Zoo Website:
www.zooguadalajara.com.mx
BULLFIGHTING can be witnessed at certain times of the year. Some of the worlds best bull
fighters can be found in the Plaza Nuevo Progreso (which seats 25,000) north of the
downtown area. This stadium is located near the Zoo. The best time to see a bull fight is
between October and March. Bullfights take place on Sundays starting at around 4:30pm.
Tickets for the current days show can be purchased on site at the bull ring. Horse shows
and concerts are also held at various times throughout the year.
Contact Info:
Address: Pirineos #1930, Independencia
--> Guadalajara, Jalisco. Zip Code: 44320 Between the Streets: Calz. Independencia Nte. y Fidel
Velasqués Telephone: (33) 3637-9982 / 3651-8378 / 3651-8506 E-Mail:nuevoprogreso@hotmail.com
The INSTITUTO CULTURAL CABANAS is located at the far eastern end of the downtown Plaza
Tapatia. This building used to be the home for orphans but now proudly displays many many
Orozco murals. The most spectacular of the murals are in the main part of the building.
They cover the walls and the ceilings. There are several benches and tables on which you
can lay down and look up at the murals.
This building contains 23 different patios and courtyards.
There are also several changing
art exhibits displayed in this building. Many citrus trees grace the courtyards. Beware of
picking the fruit however. What looks like ripe oranges and grapefruits are really fruit
that is quite sour. The varieties of citrus planted here are not meant to be eaten. They
are ornamentals. Admission is charged to this museum and there is a student discount. For
more information call 3-617-4440.
The TEATRO DEGOLLADO is located on the west end of the Plaza Tapitia. You can't miss this
building. Its the one that has many columns in the front. The inside of this theater is
quite elegant. There are four stories above the main viewing area on the lower floor. Its
home to Guadalajara's Symphonic Orchestra. They also present Operas and plays in this
building. If you walk around to the back of the theatre you will see a presentation on the
back depicting the founding of Guadalajara in 1542. This founding actually occurred very
close to the present day location of the Theater. Unfortunately this theater was closed
when I was visiting, due to remodeling. The University of Guadalajara's Folkloric Ballet
performs every Thursday afternoon. For ticket information and a listing of shows please
call PHONE NUMBER 3-614-4773.
The MUSEO CLEMENTE OROZCO is located just east of the Minerva Circle off of Avenida
Vallarta. This building is the former workshop and home of Clemente Orozco. Inside this
building you will find many photographs, tools, clothing, and Orozco's personal easel.
There is also a three story window, and in front of this window you will find a huge
Orozco mural entitled "Alegoria del Vino." The museum is open Tuesday through
Sunday from 10 until 2pm. For more information call PHONE NUMBER 3-616-8329.
The CATHEDRAL faces Avenida Alcalde and its appearance can easily throw one off when
trying to guess its age. It is a mix of Byzantine, Greek, Gothic, and Arabic styles.
Construction was begun in 1561 and it was finished in 1618. However, the two 200 foot
towers were erected in 1848 after a tremendous earthquake. There is a large painting
called "The Assumption of the Virgin" inside the church.
The
PALACIO DE GOBIERNO contains the most famous murals by Jose
Clemente Orozco. I have studied several of these in previous art
courses. There is a lot of activity in these murals. I found
that by lying down on the stairs, underneath the murals, I could
relax and enjoy the paintings more. Many of his murals are of
themes about war, freedom, and oppression. The building the
murals are in was built in 1643. If you are lucky you will run
into a short gentleman that looks part Mexican and Japanese. He
will offer you his tour guide services FREE of charge. He speaks
9 different languages fluently.
The TEMPLO EXPIATORIO church is well worth a visit
especially during the beginning of the noon hour. Every day at
12pm, 12 apostles make an appearance. The church is very
beautiful also.
