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Patzcuaro, one of Mexico's
most fascinating towns, sits high on a hillside above the shores
of the state of Michoacan's largest lake. Classically colonial,
the center of town is dominated by three plazas: busy Plaza de San
Augustin, next to the market; large and serene Plaza de Vasco de
Quiroga; and the smaller, more intimate Plaza de San Francisco that
bursts to life with each Friday crafts market. Patzcuaro is brimming
with winding cobblestone streets, lined with white-washed walls
and heavy wooden doorways that reveal alluring glimpses of timeless
colonial courtyards. Evenings, the air is fragrant with burning
pine logs as fireplaces are essential for the brisk mountain climate.
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Aside from the city's
colonial ambience and Lakeside attractions, Patzcuaro is also a
commercial center for the Tarascan Indians. Four days a week they
participate in one of the liveliest and most colorful markets in
Mexico. Market features include local weaving, indigenous cooking
utensils, distinctive black and green pottery, regional delicacies,
mats and baskets made from Lake reeds - all creating an experience
that is uniquely Patzcuaro. |
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Taxco is another hillside
colonial gem. The city's church with 12 altars, stately homes and
civic buildings are surprisingly opulent for a relatively small
town. And no wonder - the hills of Taxco were once rich with precious
metals. Three times gold and silver veins were discovered in Taxco.
The first mine was opened in 1521 by the Spaniards on the site occupied
today by the Santa Prisca Church - the colonial heart of Taxco.
Then in the early 18th century the Borda brothers struck an extremely
lucrative vein that created a rush of miners, investors and rich
townspeople who built much of the grandeur we see in Taxco today.
But by the 19th century, the metal veins dried up and Taxco was
reduced to a much more modest status. |
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In the 1930's an American,
William Spratling, opened a silver workshop in Taxco. His designs
were a great success which led to workshops, trained local apprentices
and new methods that revived the mines. Although, today, the Mexican
government tightly regulates the metal industry, Taxco is resplendent
with hundreds of silvershops and is a boomtown of uniquely beautiful
jewelry and art objects. |
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