| Morelia is the capital city of the state of Michoacán. Founded in 1541,
it was originally named Valladolid after the Spanish city with the same
name. Wealthy Spaniards were encouraged to move here. They built a lovely
colonial city with very Spanish architecture. In 1828, the state changed
the name to Morelia to honor José Maria Morelos, a hero of the Mexican
independence movement who lived here. In order to keep its Spanish architecture,
city ordinances now require new construction to be colonial-style including
arches, baroque facades, and pink walls. |
