…meditando sobre Guanajuato
The name Guanajuato comes from the Purepecha language. Some say it means, “hill of frogs,” contending that in the Purepecha culture, the frog is the god of wisdom. Others believe it means, “place of monstrous frogs,” referring to the rock formations that ring the town.
The city has embraced its amphibious “mascota.” Throughout the city, one can see frog ornamentations on homes and businesses. Streets and callejons are named after the frog. The city’s southwest entrance welcomes visitors with La Plaza de Ranas, a lovely gateway featuring a collection of large sandstone frog sculptures.
Drawings in this post were made in ink wash from selected sculptures from the Plaza. I believe these kissing frogs are some of my favorites.
Based on the diversity of sculptural styles, I would guess a variety of sculptors were invited or competed to create a sandstone frog.
Below are a few of my favorite frog photos from wandering the town:
