We started off at the central plaza named after Vasco de Quiroga. Vasco de Quiroga was the first bishop of Michoacan, Mexico and one of the judges that governed New Spain in the 1530s.
He moved the capital from Tzintzuntzan to Patzcuaro in 1533 and built a large basilica. He also founded the Colegio de San Nicolas Obispo in Patzcuaro.
Today the plaza was filled with school children. There were several activities celebrating their flag day.
The Templo de la Compania de Jesus was built between 1540 and 1546.
Just across the street was El Sagrario Church. Construction started in 1693 and ended two centuries later, resulting in a mixture of architectural styles.
As we walked north we came to the Basilica de Salud which was built in the 1530s. Vasco de Quiroga was respectful of the indigenous beliefs and felt that Christianity should not replace their religion, but complement it. The community and people are deeply religious today, and is expressed in many ways. Patzcuaro is widely known for its celebration of Day of the Dead.
As we crossed one street, we noticed the traffic backed up for several blocks. Those white vans are “collectivos,” or a collective bus/taxi.
We had lunch in the market. The little restaurant stall was only about 8’ across and had 2 women working. The long quesadillas were $12 pesos – just under $1 USD and quite tasty! We shopped for fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. If there was something you wanted or needed, you could probably find it in the market for a good price.
We went to the Casa de Los Once (11) Patios. This rambling colonial building was originally a Dominican convent built in the 1740s. Today it houses small artesanías (handicrafts) shops, each specializing in a particular regional craft. We wandered through jewelry, clothing, leather, and fabric craft shops selling tablecloths and napkins.
We also were lucky enough catch the parade with the students at Colegio Josefina.
All in all, it was a busy day! We are loving Patzcuaro, even though the temperatures are much cooler than on the coast. It dropped to 43°F overnight, but did warm into the 70s today.
GPS 19.54634°N, 101.60065°W
Today the plaza was filled with school children. There were several activities celebrating their flag day.
Just across the street was El Sagrario Church. Construction started in 1693 and ended two centuries later, resulting in a mixture of architectural styles.
As we crossed one street, we noticed the traffic backed up for several blocks. Those white vans are “collectivos,” or a collective bus/taxi.
We had lunch in the market. The little restaurant stall was only about 8’ across and had 2 women working. The long quesadillas were $12 pesos – just under $1 USD and quite tasty! We shopped for fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. If there was something you wanted or needed, you could probably find it in the market for a good price.
All in all, it was a busy day! We are loving Patzcuaro, even though the temperatures are much cooler than on the coast. It dropped to 43°F overnight, but did warm into the 70s today.
GPS 19.54634°N, 101.60065°W
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