The Insituto Allende was founded in 1941 as a center for the study of the Spanish language and studio arts. Since that time, it has emerged as one of the premier places in Latin America for American students to study. Students who participate in the program may choose from a variety of courses offered at the Instituto Allende. For those interested in the Spanish language, the Instituto Allende offers courses and private tutorials in all language levels.
Classes are usually small and offered at varying times during the day.
A course in Mexican culture and history is also offered each semester. A special course in Archaeology is offered during the Summer semesters for interested students. Participating students work at an ancient pyramid site excavating the ruins of the Toltec or Chi-Chi Mecca civilization. Students also learn modern archaeological techniques of cataloging and computer work. An intensive three-day Spanish language and culture course is taught at the Instituto Allende prior to the beginning of the archaeology course.