his unique and exciting journey will explore the abundant cultural and artistic heritage of Mexico’s Colonial Period. Spanning the sixteenth to early nineteenth centuries, Mexico saw an astounding proliferation of art and architecture as this faraway land in the New World became known as New Spain, with its fabulous churches, monasteries, and private residences. Sustained by the wealth from silver mines and agriculture, these cities experienced a renaissance in the arts as builders, artisans, and artists expressed themselves in a burst of aesthetic exuberance rendering each city a work of art in itself. It is a legacy that Mexican artists and artisans carry on today.
     Begin in Morelia and wander through the historic center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sample delectable confections at the world-renowned candy market. In the idyllic lakeside community of Patzcuaro, experience firsthand vibrant native culture at numerous craft workshops. In the enchanting mountain city of San Miguel de Allende, discover the Atotonilco, the Sistine Chapel of Mexico. As a rare treat, visit the home and studio of one of Mexico’s finest glass artists.
     Throughout your excursion enjoy deluxe accommodations in Morelia, at the sixteenth-century mansion Hotel Virrey de Mendoza, and in San Miguel de Allende, at the Casa de Sierra Nevada, one of Mexico’s most elegant five-star hotels.

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7 days

Moderately active

From $3,295

Accommodations, meals as specified, all land transportation, excursions, gratuities

Airfare, airport taxes, passport fees, travel insurance

Associate Professor of Art Dana Leibsohn is director of Smith’s interdepartmental program in Latin American and Latino studies. She teaches courses on Latin American visual culture and is developing a multimedia project titled “Vistas: Visual Culture in Spanish America, 1520–1820.”