Just north of Mexico City is a mountainous land streaked with silver, dotted with agave, lavender and strawberry fields, and beckoning with pink sandstone churches that grace picturesque villages from a by-gone era. Travelers to the state of Guanajuato will not only find these treasures but can also experience a rich culture and learn the history of Mexico's heroic quest for independence. If you tend to think of Mexico mainly in terms of its coastal offerings, you should discover the heart of this destination and expand your sales repertoire to an even wider variety of clients.

The region's prosperity dates to the mid-1500s when the Spanish began mining silver, and today the region boasts an impressive architectural legacy. Visitors can wander down cobblestone streets leading to elegant plazas and take in a stunning mix of architectural styles. In the capital city of Guanajuato, for example, they can admire the Mexican Churrigueresque facade of the pink-tinted church of San Diego, while on the same plaza, the Teatro Juarez dazzles with its fascinating mix of neoclassic lines and Moorish decorative touches. Not far away is the city's 400-year-old Baroque basilica, home to treasures of Mexican art.

Though brimming with history, the region has a youthful vibe, partly because its capital city contains the prestigious University of Guanajuato, around which a lively neighborhood of eateries, bookshops and arts venues has arisen. Every fall the Cervantino International Festival fills the capital and surrounding towns with music, dance and theatrical performances. People of all ages take part in one truly authentic experience that visitors should not miss - the Callejoneada, which is formed by musicians who play as they stroll through the streets and are led by a storyteller. It's a rather spontaneous event, where anyone can join in.

Guanajuato is where much of Mexico's struggle for independence took place, beginning with the freedom fighters who positioned themselves in the capital's Grain Warehouse and engaged in the first confrontation with the Spanish army. Visitors can learn their story at this site, which now contains a museum, or journey to the observation point and statue dedicated to the indigenous fighter El P��pila, or travel to the nearby Pueblo M��gico of Dolores Hidalgo, named after the activist priest Miguel Hidalgo, who helped inspire the fight for independence.

San Miguel de Allende is a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose most iconic attraction is the pink Gothic-style church of St. Michael the Archangel. Overlooking vineyards and filled with cobblestone streets lined by colonial Spanish buildings containing art galleries, museums and restaurants, this beautiful town is a popular place for destination weddings.

Guanajuato State has begun making its presence known in the international wine market, although its wine-making tradition began with the Spanish missionaries who planted grapes centuries ago. Using Old World methods (i.e., low intervention), the wineries here produce a natural juice, and many specialize in organic wines. Enthusiasts can follow various wine routes for tastings and to learn about production.

Throughout the region, the aroma of chili, wild herbs and spices waft from clay pots simmering on wood-burning stoves. Visitors will find great street fare and enticing restaurants. A few delights all visitors must try are Guanajuato's signature tortillas decorated with an edible pigment forming beautiful images, Enchiladas Mineras served in rustic kitchens and filled with onions, cheese, carrots and potatoes, and ice cream made from a wide range of local ingredients, such as avocados, mole and a berry-like cactus fruit.

The mountains provide a playground for horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers, who can enjoy spectacular views while out and about. Canyons and even a mineshaft are available for rappelling. Kayakers and canoers will also find beautiful spots to ply their paddles.

This slideshow barely scrapes the surface of all there is to do and see in Mexico's heartland. Enroll in Travel Agent Academy's Guanajuato State Specialist Program to learn about accommodations, more villages to explore and further details on a whole range of activities - from visiting a restored mine to learning about one of Mexico's most famous artists, Diego Rivera, to exploring indigenous mysticism to relaxing in hot springs. Guanajuato could easily become your best recommendation for clients looking for a nearby destination that is new and filled with adventure.