Morelia (mo-REH-lia), a city of about 1 million, rests on a gentle sloping hill overlooking the Valley of Guayangero and is another of Mexico’s colonial gems. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Artistic sight. At an elevation of 6,399 feet above sea level, Morelia’s climate provides spring-like days throughout the year. The city and surrounding state of Michoacan offer a refreshing addition to any colonial city tour itinerary.
Morelia is the capital of Michoacan, a land of immense beauty. Michoacan is the colonial Spaniards translation of the Nahautl word, Mechuacan which means “place of land of the fisherman”.
Greener and more rustic than the neighboring state of Guanajuato, Michoacan’s countryside is a vast expanse of rolling hills, deep lakes, winding rivers and green valleys.
Much of the state is dominated by a volcanic mountain range, the Cordillera Neovolcanica. Volcanic activity and the state’s latitude position creates a setting not unlike Hawaii, especially near the coast. Rich soil supports lush jungle-like vegetation, with spectacular mountain landscape, and velveteen pasture lands.
The state has few large cities, but rather a collection of small villages and towns that have changed little since the 1800’s. It’s pace is leisurely, its people friendly, and its Spanish colonial and indigenous heritage rich.
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. Despite some unattractive urban sprawl, Morelia proudly displays numerous masterfully restored mansions, churches, and civic buildings.. Most are oft pink-colored stone 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.
Aside from its historical attractions, Morelia is also the educational, cultural and political center of the state. Morelia makes an excellent choice for foreigners studying Spanish and Mexican culture. It is also the home for dozens of writers, artists, philosophers, poets, and a community of retired Americans and Canadians.
Morelia also boasts a fine convention center (capacity 1,200), coupled with a modern planetarium and greenhouse with over 4,500 species of plants. Within a couple hours drive from the city, the state’s deep indigenous roots come alive in villages that make excellent day trips from Morelia such as Patzcuaro, Uruapan, and Santa Clara del Cobre.
By Air
Morelia has an international airport. Flights arrive at Francisco J. Múgica airport daily. The airport is about 15 miles from Morelia. Several shops are open, plus a restaurant, bar, and several rental car agencies.
From the airport, taxis are available at around $16-$20 depending on what city zone you are headed to and it’s about a 30 minute ride. Most major rental car companies have airport counters.
By Land
Morelia can be reached by driving from Mexico City (315 km.) and Guadalajara (367 km.). The highways in the area are modern and well-kept.
If you do drive your vehicle to Morelia, you must have Mexican auto insurance, it’s the law. Please see Travel Services under the Travel & Lodging directory for a list of companies.
Central de Autobuses can be found near the center of town on Eduardo Ruiz V. near V. Gomez Farias. Most major bus companies serve the city offering services from first class, luxury trips to inexpensive, budget trips. Buses head out to many cities in Mexico daily, including Mexico City every 30 minutes. Local lines leave for Patzcuaro and other small towns in Michiacan throughout the day.
Jardin de las Rosas
GETTING OUT & ABOUT
Morelia’s colonial (and main tourist) area is easy to walk with most attractions a couple of blocks in any direction from the main plaza. The bus station is only about 5 blocks away.
Morelia also has public bus service and combis (small vans) running throughout the town. Taxis are plentiful, and should be taken at night after bus service stops.
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