Surrounded by the mountains of the Sierra Madre Occidental, the particularities of the neighboring villages, the active presence of the Purhepechas Indian population and the splendor of the Lake and its islands make of the Colonial town of Pátzcuaro, located in the center of the State of Michoacan, an authentic living museum, a cultural and tourist destination to appreciate.
The slow and charming character of Patzcuaro is due to its Indian origin. To the lake and its five islands, the exceptional preservation of its architectural monuments, the richness of its religious sites, the mystery of the pre-Hispanic vestiges. As well as to the beauty of the landscaping that forms the plateau and the warm welcome of its people.
From the top of the old city, the renowned Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Salud, a pilgrimage and miracle center built in 1540 guards over the villagers and some 15 churches and convents that beautify the valley that takes to Morelia.
At the center of the Historic Quarter, an immense garden surrounded of magnificent arches forms the Plaza Vasco de Quiroga, the most beautiful colonial square of Mexico .
Close by, the "Plaza Chica" named Plaza Bocanegra after the revolutionary independence heroine, offers you the pleasures of wandering within the agitations of the daily public market, among stalls of exotic, colorful fruits and vegetables.
The Purhepecha Indians, artists of mixed traditions, cultures and beliefs, produce one of the most varied art crafts of Mexico (fabrics, copper, wood, stone, and clay).
To remark the famous, wonderful Indian celebration of the ritual of the Night of the Dead (Noche de Muertos), the night from the First to the Second of November.
Not to miss the visit-pilgrimage to the town of Parangaricutiro covered by the rise and eruption of the volcano Paricutin in 1943. The equestrian ascent and the discovery of the landscape on top of the extinguished volcano make of this ride/expedition an extraordinary adventure.
A silent and respectful visit to the Monarch Sanctuary (migratory butterfly) will not fail to leave a mark by its beauty of numbers and colors.
