Before the arrival of Columbus, the region was inhabited by a people known as the pirindas, and the place was called   "Guayangareo".

 

    Morelia was founded May 18, 1541 by Antonio de Mendoza, as "New City of Michoacán", and in 1578, the name was changed by "Valladolid". In 1580, Valladolid replaced Pátzcuaro as the capital of Michoacán. During the colonial period a number of religious orders established themselves in the city, allowing it to take an important place in the history of art and culture in Mexico. Important architectural sites from the colonial period include the Catedral de Morelia, the Aqueduct, the Governor's Palace, the Palacio Clavijero, and numerous churches, convents, and houses. The Conservatorio de Música de las Rosas of Morelia was the first music conservatory in the Americas.                                                                                                                                   

The city is the birthplace of José María Morelos (1765), after whom it was renamed in September 12th, 1828, and who along with Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla began the Mexican War of Independence from Spain in 1810. It was also the birthplace of Agustín de Iturbide (1783),the first Emperor of Mexico.

 

        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"

        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 CanadiansMorelia 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