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This pre-Hispanic city was one of the largest and most influential at the time of the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century, being the capital of the Tarasco Lordship. From here the most important political, economic and religious decisions were made that affected a vast territory, covering almost the entirety of the current state of Michoacán, as well as parts of Guerrero, the State of Mexico, Guanajuato and Jalisco.

The city was built on wide terraces and large platforms on the slopes of the Yarahuato and Tariaqueri hills. Houses, religious and administrative buildings were built on these structures. Here resided the Uacúsechas Lords, also known as the “Eagle Lords”, leaders of this powerful lordship, who, through a hereditary dynasty, ruled the region.

The ancient city housed the most sacred ritual spaces, including plazas and yácatas (pyramidal bases), and was also the residence of the Irecha or Cazonci, the highest authority of the Purepecha empire.

For more information about this archaeological site, click here.