City Overview

Population: 800,000
Location: State of Michoacan (Central Mexico)

Morelia rests on a gentle sloping hill overlooking the Valley of Guayangero and is without a doubt, one of Mexico's colonial gems. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Artistic sight Morelia offers visitors a wonderful cultural experience. Combine this with a refreshing spring like climate throughout the year, and you have a wonderful place in which to study Spanish and discover Mexico.

Morelia was founded in May 18, 1541 by the Viceroy Antonio Mendoza. Over the course of history the state capital has had three names: the indigenous people gave it the name of Guayangero; during the reign of Spain was named Valladolid and after it became independent it was named Morelia.

Today Morelia is one of Mexico's most endearing cities - wonderfully restful and clean with wide boulevards, lovely squares, and shady parks. Architecturally, the city is of the 17th and 18th century Spanish colonial style. Morelia proudly displays numerous masterfully restored mansions, churches, and civic buildings, many of which are built with pink-colored stone designed with lacy, delicate facades. The city's layout is a classic grid design, with a central square. Shopping, museums, and historic attractions are within a few blocks of the square.

Seeing the city on foot is certainly the best way to discover what Morelia has in store for the interested visitor. A good place to start is the main street going away from the city towards the aqueduct; this is an engineering feat and an architectural gem. This once waterway is now a busy street framed by arches, lined with trees and surrounded by outdoor markets, quaint sidewalk cafes, and a beautiful city park where couples picnic and students read. One will not want to miss going to the Super-Mercado, on the other side of town. This outdoor/indoor bazaar-style market has everything from leather goods to fresh produce.

We are confident that within a very short period of time you will fall in love with Morelia and the charming state of Michoacan!

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