MORELIA
The Government Palace Morelia
This old 18th century building used to be the Tridentino Seminary. It has three patios and was later decorated with mural paintings by Alfredo Zalce. Its sober, baroque façade has a replica of the Dolores bell that is in honor of such heroes of the Independence movement as Morelos, Iturbide and Matamoros. These three men were all once students at the seminary.
The San Agustín Church
The Augustine monks built a series of monasteries dedicated to Santa María de Gracia in Morelia in the 16th and 17th centuries. This building includes a cloister, a church, and a side chapel with several paintings. The interior is decorated in the neoclassical style; the outside has a Plateresque and Renaissance façade.
ARCHAEOLOGY
Exploring the remains of its cities and ceremonial centers is essential if you want to find out more about the Tarascan Empire, which reached its peak during the Late Post-Classic (1200-1521 AD). The archaeological sites of Tzintzuntzan and Ihuatzio are located approximately 17 km outside Pátzcuaro, a 30 or 40 minutes’ drive from Morelia.
Ihuatzio
The main civic and military zone of the Tarascans during the 12th century and one of the three cities into which their empire was divided.
Tzintzuntzan
This important Purépecha government center consists of five pyramids placed on a raised rectangular platform next to the Pátzcuaro Lake. 800 years ago, during the government’s peak years, it controlled territories.
ARTS & CRAFTS
The handicrafts in Morelia are part of the historical inheritance of the region. Man, the family workshops and the materials provided by nature are three factors that make the handicrafts unique. Some typical pieces include pottery, pitchers, plates and punch bowls, all painted with their marvelous designs; figures carved out of wood include carved masks, saints and crèches, among others.
Expo State Fair
Expo State Fair. Craft, cattle, commercial and industrial display. Music and dance shows, amusement rides and traditional groups. Held from the last Sunday in April to the third Sunday in May.
Museo de las Artesanías
Displays collections of every type of craftwork in Michoacán. Open Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fray Juan de San Miguel 129, on the corner of Humboldt.
Museo de la Mascara
Set in the Casa de la Cultura de Morelia, this museum displays 167 ethnographic objects from various Mexican states. Open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Av. Morelos Norte 485.
CUISINE
In Morelia, you will be able to sample a wide range of Michoacan cooking. Make sure you order churipo, corundas, uchepos and buñuelos. Don’t miss an evening visit to the Portales de San Agustín to try the pollo placero-you won’t regret it.
Hotel de la Soledad
CATEGORY: Mexican
SPECIALITIES: Pollo de plaza, Morelian-style enchiladas, and regional snacks
Las Mercedes
CATEGORY: International
SPECIALITIES: Extensive selection of carefully prepared Mexican and international dishes.
Las Trojes
CATEGORY: International
SPECIALITIES: Mexican and international cuisine
Los Juaninos
CATEGORY: Mexican
SPECIALITIES: The menu features Mexican haute cuisine such as batter coated squash blossoms stuffed with fresh cheese and served in a spicy chili sauce
San Miguelito
CATEGORY: Mexican
SPECIALITIES: Creative Mexican dishes such as filete tzitziqui, filet of beef served in a sauce of squash flowers and corn.
Solar de Villagrán
CATEGORY: International
SPECIALITIES: Beef prepared tampiqueña style.
Villa Montaña hotel
CATEGORY: International
SPECIALITIES: Gourmet Mexican and international cuisine
Virrey de Mendoza
CATEGORY: International
SPECIALITIES: Mexican and international specialties including Tarascan soup, corundas, and white fish from Lake Pátzcuaro.
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