Pátzcuaro

Pátzcuaro, in the heart of Michoacán, is one of Mexico's most charming towns. Its Plaza Vasco de Quiroga, one of the largest in the Americas, is named after the bishop who protected the Purépecha people in the 16th century. Lake Pátzcuaro, surrounded by indigenous villages, can be navigated by boat to Janitzio island with its monumental Morelos statue. Day of the Dead here is a unique experience: Purépecha families hold vigils at the Janitzio island cemetery and in Tzintzuntzan with thousands of candles. Local crafts include lacquerwork, basketry, and corn stalk paste figures.