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.
Please
note that additional info (prices, activities, etc) are found
to the right of this pages. 
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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