Pátzcuaro Region

From the P’urépecha empire to the heart of the Don Vasco Route

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The Lake Patzcuaro Region is the cultural soul of Michoacán, a place where history, ancestral traditions and nature intertwine to offer a unique and deeply enriching experience. Nestled in the heart of the state, this region is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, where the majestic Lake Patzcuaro serves as the epicenter of P’urhépecha life and culture.

Since pre-Hispanic times, the shores of the lake were home to the powerful P’urhépecha civilization, whose vestiges can still be admired in archaeological sites such as Las Yácatas de Tzintzuntzan and Ihuatzio. This rich historical heritage is complemented by a vibrant culture that has endured throughout the centuries, manifesting itself in such emblematic celebrations as the Night of the Dead, a festivity that in this region takes on a special dimension and has been declared Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

The Magical Town of Patzcuaro is the heart of this region, a place that seems frozen in time, where cobblestone streets, red-tiled houses and lively squares invite you to discover the essence of Michoacan. Founded by Don Vasco de Quiroga, Patzcuaro is a living testimony of the cultural syncretism that defines the region, a place where Spanish influence merges with Purepecha traditions to create a unique identity.

We recommend you to visit

Pueblo Mágico de Pátzcuaro: It is a colonial jewel founded by Don Vasco de Quiroga in the 16th century. Its Plaza Vasco de Quiroga, one of the largest squares in Mexico, is the starting point to explore this Magical Town. Here you can visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Health, a place of great devotion that houses the image of the Virgin carved in corn cane paste. It is also essential to visit the Museum of Popular Arts and Industries, which exhibits a wonderful collection of local handicrafts and historical objects.

Lake Zirahuén: A short distance from Pátzcuaro, Lake Zirahuén is a natural destination of breathtaking beauty. With crystal clear waters surrounded by green forests, it is a perfect place to enjoy tranquility, practice water sports, or simply relax in a serene environment. The lake is also home to local legends, such as that of the mermaid Zirahuén, who is said to still inhabit its depths.

Santa Clara del Cobre: This Magical Town is famous for its artisan tradition in copper work. Here, you can visit workshops where artisans transform copper into unique pieces, from kitchen utensils to decorative sculptures. The National Copper Museum is a must to learn more about this tradition that has been kept alive for centuries.

On Janitzio Island, one of the most emblematic islands of Lake Patzcuaro, one of the most spectacular traditional dances in Mexico is performed: The Dance of the Fishermen with Butterfly Nets. During this dance, local fishermen use nets in the shape of butterfly wings to catch fish, recreating an ancient P’urhépecha fishing technique.

What you have to live

Sailing on Lake Zirahuén: Lake Zirahuén is not only a place to relax, but also a place for adventure. Rent a kayak or a boat and explore the crystal clear waters of the lake while enjoying the surrounding landscape. The peace you feel in the middle of the lake, surrounded by mountains and forests, is incomparable, and will allow you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Night of the Dead in Janitzio and Pátzcuaro: In Janitzio, families illuminate the cemetery with thousands of candles and decorate the tombs with marigold flowers and offerings, creating a magical atmosphere. In Patzcuaro, the celebration includes community altars, processions, and cultural events that fill the streets with life and color.

Explore Las Yácatas de Tzintzuntzan: Walking among Las Yácatas is an experience that connects you with the pre-Hispanic past of the region. This archaeological site offers a unique opportunity to understand the greatness of the P’urhépecha civilization, their beliefs and architecture.

Visit the workshops in Santa Clara del Cobre: Participating in a workshop where artisans show you how they transform metal into works of art is an enriching experience. You will be able to see how, with ancestral techniques, copper is molded and hammered into beautiful and functional pieces. In addition, you will have the opportunity to purchase unique pieces directly from the artisans.

What you have to try

Caldo Michi: This traditional dish is a broth based on fresh fish from Lake Patzcuaro, usually accompanied by vegetables such as carrots, chayote and potatoes. The michi broth is a reflection of the rich culinary tradition of the region and is a delicacy that you cannot miss. Its smoky flavor, combined with the freshness of the fish, makes it a comforting dish full of flavor.

Patzcuaro white fish: Considered a delicacy of the region, the white fish of Lake Patzcuaro is an endemic species that is prepared in various ways, either fried, grilled or in broth. Its soft and delicate meat makes it one of the most appreciated dishes by locals and visitors alike. It is a flavor that encapsulates the essence of the lake and its surroundings.

Uchepos and Corundas: Uchepos are tender, soft and sweet corn tamales, usually accompanied with cream and sauce. Corundas, on the other hand, are triangular tamales typical of Michoacán, made of corn dough and wrapped in corn or milpa leaves. Both are examples of the rich tradition of tamales in the region, each with its own flavor and texture, and are a delight you must try when you visit Patzcuaro and its surroundings.

Exploring the Lake Patzcuaro region is much more than just a visit; it is an immersion into the culture, history and traditions of Michoacán. Every place you visit, every experience you live, and every dish you taste, will bring you closer to the essence of this magical region, leaving you with indelible memories and a deep appreciation for the cultural richness that defines Michoacán.