Near San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico / November 2012 –

In keeping with the ‘Easter’ theme, I chose this earlier photo, taken within the first two weeks of ever coming to SMA. The origins of the Church of Atotonilco dates back to the 16^th century. Inside is a real delight, as it has amazing original frescos, so appealing, that it has sometimes been called “The Sistine Chapel of the Americas”. It has ‘sacred’ art and is a must see, only 15 minutes away from SMA on the road to Dolores Hidalgo. The Sanctuary of Atotonilco, in conjunction with the city of San Miguel de Allende, was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

This is a special photo because the church has become so famous that to photograph it without people out front, is indeed a rare occurrence. I was actually out this way to visit the nearby La Gruta Spa and natural hot springs and got completely lucky with the lighting and scarcity of people.

This Atotonilco area is a great place for an afternoon to take in a refreshing hot springs, swim and massage; a visit to the Atotonilco Church and surrounding areas; as well as some very impressive destination restaurants. One of note is a small hotel that also serves as a spa retreat, with a great pool and restaurant called Nirivana Restaurant and Retreat. The gardens are spectacular.