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Mexican state of Michoacán is a land of intense natural beauty with mountains, rolling hills, crystal blue lakes, lush green valleys, winding rivers, wild flowers and pine trees. It’s unlike any Mexico you have ever imagined in the past. The state has few large cities, but rather an eclectic collection of small villages and towns that have remained locked in time since the 1800s. The Spanish colonial influence is powerful and the indigenous heritage rich and prominent.
Michoacán is also the premiere place in the world to witness nature’s grandeur. Each year, over 100 million monarch butterflies migrate from the US and Canada to spend the winter in the easternmost part of Michoacán. Between November and March, the butterfly sanctuaries are a total sensory experience. The trees come to life in black and orange as the millions of wings pulsate in harmony.
Morelia, the capital city, stands as the centerpiece of the state. Founded in 1541, after centuries of Spanish rule, it is known as the “Aristocrat of the Colonial Cities.” It is the quintessence of 17th and 18th century Spanish colonial style and proudly displays its regal cathedrals and masterfully restored downtown area. The feeling is distinctly European. Morelia’s wide boulevards and cozy squares are lined with chic cafes filled with students, artists and a community of retired Americans who have come to enjoy the cities educational and cultural centers.
An hour or so outside of Morelia is the amazing town of Pátzcuaro. Resting 7,250 feet in elevation in the foothills of the Sierra Madre on the tranquil shores of Lake Pátzcuaro (one of the highest lakes in the world), this was the 16th century capital of Michoacán and is still home to the Purépecha Indians. Frozen in time, the local Indians still fish, farm and present their crafts in vibrant markets just as they have for centuries. Jumbled, narrow cobblestone streets frame colorful town squares and single story white washed houses with red tile roofs. It has a magic all its own.
Venturing about ten miles northeast of Pátzcuaro, you’ll encounter the subtle charisma of Tzintzuntzan (tseen-TSOON-tzahn). Located on a terrace overlooking the eastern shore of the lake, this is the ancient capital of the Purépecha kingdom. It’s worth a visit to this simple yet interesting archeological site to see how carefully fitted stone blocks support the ruins of five temples. Tzintzuntzan is also well known for its straw and ceramic handicrafts made by the Purépecha.
Not much further up the road, you’ll be serenaded by the somehow melodic sound of hammers pounding copper in the crisp mountain air. Santa Maria del Cobre has been a center for the copper arts since before the conquest. The town square is incredible by itself and holds its own as a “must see” even you don’t want to buy copper. Though the mines of that existed during the pre-Conquest times are long gone, the local artisans continue to create each magnificent piece of art by hand.
Immerse yourself in a destination that is more than you ever expected…an outdoor experience, a historical gold mine and plenty of eco-tourism.
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