Archaeological Sites

Exploring the remains of its cities and ceremonial centers is essential if you want to find out more about the Tarascan Empire, which reached its peak during the Late Post-Classic (1200-1521 AD). The archaeological sites of Tzintzuntzan and Ihuatzio are located approximately 17 km outside Pátzcuaro, a 30 or 40 minutes’ drive from Morelia.

Ihuatzio

The main civic and military zone of the Tarascans during the 12th century and one of the three cities into which their empire was divided.

Tzintzuntzan

This important Purépecha government center consists of five pyramids placed on a raised rectangular platform next to the Pátzcuaro Lake. 800 years ago, during the government’s peak years, it controlled territories.