Pátzcuaro (elevation: 2,200 meters or 7,200 feet),
a picturesque colonial town and a UNESCO
World Heritage Site, is nestled in a lush pine forest on the
southeast shore of Lake Pátzcuaro in the state of Michoacán.
The city was founded by Vasco de Quiroga who used Pátzcuaro
to evangelize the indigenous population, build schools and hospitals
and teach handicraft techniques still used by local artisans
today.
Lake Pátzcuaro is a home to the small island of Janitzio,
which comes alive during the Day
of the Dead, making Pátzcuaro one of the top -- and
some say overcrowded -- destinations during this national holiday.
CULTURAL WORLD
The town conserves traditional architecture. Most of the buildings
are built of adobe and have red tile roofs. Cobblestone streets
add to the charm.
PARKS AND PLAZAS
The Plaza Vasco de Quiroga is Pátzcuaro's central square
(zócalo). A statue of Vasco de Quiroga stands in its
center. The ash trees have exuberant foliage and if you look
closely orchids grow in the branches. The Plaza Chica has been
remodeled.
HISTORY
The name Pátzcuaro, means doorway to heaven in the
Purépecha language.
NEARBY
Once the capital of the Purêpecha, the town of Tzintzuntzan
is located along the eastern side of the lake and boasts an
unusual archaeological site.
Ten miles west of town are indigenous communities of San Francisco
Uricho and Erongarícuaro, home of the Purépecha
Indians. Walking tours are led by Francisco
Castilleja, a guide with more than 20 years of experience
in the region.
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