San Miguel de Allende is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. We had spent a couple hours there about 20 years ago and had always wanted to go back and see more. While we have loved our recent trips to Morocco and to Italy we were finding it hard to think about another long and exhausting flight, so Mexico sounded perfect. We liked the idea of choosing one place and exploring it and surrounding areas. We booked an Air BnB in the center of the old part of of San Miguel and it was the perfect location.
Our little rooftop apartment and patio was comfortable, convenient and afforded a splendid view in the evening. We were just a few blocks from the Jardin, San Miguel’s main square, facing the the church, the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel.
This was the perfect place for a cup of cafe con leche in the morning and to watch people visiting in El Jardin or attending mass at the church. During our stay we saw several wedding parties leaving the church and one morning there were dozens of families gathered out front with their beautifully dressed babies, preparing for a mass baptism inside.
Each day we looked for something interesting to see or do. One day we took a taxi to the outskirts of town for a tour of The Chapel of Jimmy Ray. I had seen the website and we made an appointment for a tour, thinking it might be fun. It is the home and studio of Anado McLachlan and his partner Richard. Anado welcomed us and showed us around the grounds and home, telling stories all along the way. His little world is filled with color and whimsy and beauty and meaning. He is warm and generous of spirit and humorous and articulate. By far more than I expected. I could say much more, but the pictures tell the story. If you go to San Miguel de Allende, DO go visit the Chapel of Jimmy Ray. You will be richly rewarded.
Anado leads the way
The most beautiful outhouse in México
There are two galleries where he shows his work, as well as the work of several other artists
Inside the house.
Enough color and inspiration to keep me going for a very long time, but there was more to come...
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