Morelia Region

The capital of Michoacán is the main tourist destination in the region.

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The Morelia Region is the beating heart of Michoacán, a land where history, culture and nature create an unparalleled tourist destination. Morelia is not only the administrative center of the state, but also a city full of life and tradition that has preserved its rich colonial legacy. Founded in the 16th century as Valladolid, the city has stood out for its political and religious importance. In 1828 it adopted the name Morelia in honor of one of its most illustrious sons, José María Morelos y Pavón, the hero of Mexican independence.

The region, with its vast cultural, architectural and natural wealth, offers a comprehensive experience that attracts travelers from all over the world. At the heart of Morelia is the Historic Center of Morelia, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. More than 1,300 pink quarry stone buildings stand as living testimonies of the colonial era. These monuments, which include the majestic Cathedral, former convents, and historic buildings of great renown, are a reflection of the influence that Morelia has had on the history of Mexico.

In Morelia and the surrounding area, life is lived at a pace that honors traditions while looking to the future. From its religious celebrations to its cultural festivals to its vibrant gastronomic scene, the region offers a diversity of experiences that connect visitors to the deepest essence of Michoacán. Here, every corner has a story to tell, every dish has a flavor to remember, and every landscape has a beauty that will astound you.

The Morelia Region is, without a doubt, a destination that captivates the senses and the heart. Whether exploring the cobblestone streets of its Historic Center, tasting the exquisite local cuisine, or admiring the landscapes surrounding Lake Cuitzeo, every visit to this region is an invitation to discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of Michoacán. Come and let yourself be seduced by the magic of every moment that will become an indelible memory.

But the Morelia Region is not limited to its capital. Just a few kilometers away is Lake Cuitzeo, the second largest lake in Mexico, around which towns full of charm and history flourish. Cuitzeo, declared a Magical Town, is a clear example of the rich cultural heritage of the region, with its impressive former Augustinian convent of Santa María Magdalena and a gastronomy that delights all visitors.

We recommend you to visit

Historic Center of Morelia: The heart of Morelia is its Historic Center, an architectural jewel that houses more than 1,300 pink quarry stone buildings, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. Here, every street is a journey into the past, with magnificent baroque constructions dating from the 16th century. Among them is the Morelia Cathedral, an imposing structure that dominates the city with its two tall towers. The Cathedral, with its mixture of baroque and neoclassical styles, is a must-see for its historical value as well as its architectural beauty.

Colegio Primitivo y Nacional de San Nicolás Hidalgo: This emblematic building is one of the oldest in the city, founded in the XVI century. José María Morelos y Pavón, the Independence hero after whom the city is named, studied here. The college remains an important educational and cultural center, and its cloisters and courtyards are a reflection of the profound influence of church and state on education during colonial times.

Lake Cuitzeo: It is the second largest lake in Mexico. Its shores are home to the charming Magical Town of Cuitzeo, where the former Augustinian Convent of Santa María Magdalena stands as an impressive work of architecture and a symbol of the evangelization process in the region.

Archaeological Remains of La Nopalera and Tres Cerritos: These archaeological sites around Lake Cuitzeo are testimonies of the ancient civilizations that inhabited the region before the arrival of the Spanish. Exploring these sites is like traveling back in time.

What you have to live

See the Morelia Cathedral at night: The Morelia Cathedral is majestic at any time of the day, but at night, it is illuminated in all its splendor, offering a visual spectacle that you can’t miss. On Saturday nights, there is a show of lights and music that highlights the architectural beauty of the cathedral, a magical moment that leaves all visitors in awe.

Walk along the Calzada Fray Antonio de San Miguel: This pedestrian walkway is one of the most iconic places in Morelia, a roadway surrounded by trees and monuments that transports you through the history of the city. Walking along the Calzada de Guadalupe is like a journey through time, where each building tells a story of Morelia’s rich cultural heritage. At the end of the Calzada, the Sanctuary of Guadalupe awaits you, a church that dazzles with its richly decorated interior, a true spectacle of art and devotion.

What you have to try

Gaspachos: This refreshing typical food is a unique specialty of Morelia. Although it shares its name with the famous Spanish cold soup, the Morelian gaspacho is totally different: a mixture of fresh fruits such as pineapple, jicama and mango, cut into small cubes and garnished with orange juice, fresh cheese, and chili powder.

Ates: These delicious sweets are a legacy of Morelia’s conventual cuisine, made from fruits such as quince, guava and tejocote, slowly cooked to obtain a smooth texture and concentrated flavor.

Fried charales in Cuitzeo: Charales, small fish from Lake Cuitzeo, are a local delicacy best enjoyed fried and accompanied by hot sauce.

Mole de guajolote: In Cuitzeo, mole de guajolote is a must-try specialty. This mole, with its rich mixture of chiles, spices, and chocolate, is a complex and flavorful dish that represents the fusion of indigenous and Spanish culinary traditions. Served with guajolote (turkey) meat.

Morelia is not just a tourist destination; it is a journey through time, an experience that connects you with the past and invites you to enjoy the present in one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Mexico. Come and discover the treasures of Morelia, where history, culture, gastronomy and architecture combine to offer you an unforgettable experience.

Exploring Morelia and its region is an experience that goes far beyond a simple visit to a city. It is an immersion in the rich historical, cultural and natural heritage of Michoacán, where every place, every experience, and every dish connects you to the very essence of this magical land. From its majestic colonial buildings to its unique flavors and vibrant traditions, Morelia is a destination that invites you to discover, to experience, and to take a piece of its soul with you.