Guadalajara (city, Mexico)

Guadalajara (city, Mexico), city in west central Mexico, capital of Jalisco State, near the Río Grande de Santiago, more than 1524 m (5000 ft) above sea level, the second largest city in Mexico. Guadalajara's dry, mild climate and picturesque surroundings have made it a popular health resort. The city lies in a rich farming region and is also an important commercial center, connected by rail with the United States. Hydroelectric power from the nearby Juanacatlán Falls is used to operate the factories of the city. Among the products manufactured are textiles, leather goods, furniture, hats, and cordage. The Native Americans from this area make high-quality pottery and glassware. The cathedral's mural, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin, by Bartolemé Esteban Murillo, and the governor's palace are excellent examples of Spanish colonial art and architecture. In the city are the University of Guadalajara (1792), the Autonomous University of Guadalajara (1935), a museum housing works of the painter José Clemente Orozco, and the Degollado Theater, home of the Guadalajara Symphony Orchestra. The city is also noted for the mariachi music of its street musicians. Founded in 1530, the city was moved twice before being established at its present location in 1542. Guadalajara was captured in 1810 by the Mexican priest and revolutionary Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla during his crusade to free Mexico from Spanish colonial rule. In 1858 it was occupied by Benito Juárez during the War of the Reform. Population (2005 estimate) 1,600,940.