“Yácatas” Archaeological Zone of Tzintzuntzan

The Yácatas de Tzintzuntzan are an archaeological site located in the state of Michoacán, México. They consist of five staggered pyramid platforms built by the Purépecha civilization between the 12th and 16th centuries. Tzintzuntzan was the capital of the Purépecha kingdom, known as Taríacuri, and yácatas served as ceremonial centers.

These structures were built with stone and earth, and each has its own function. The largest, known as the Great Basement, was intended for religious and political rituals, while the other four smaller yácatas were probably dedicated to ceremonial and funerary purposes.

The Yácatas of Tzintzuntzan are notable for their unique architecture and cultural significance. They represent the power and sophistication of the Purépecha civilization, which managed to build a prosperous and highly organized society in the western region of México.

Over the centuries, Tzintzuntzan and its yácatas underwent various changes and conflicts, including the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, which eventually led to the decline of the Purépecha civilization. Today, the Yácatas of Tzintzuntzan are an important archaeological site and tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the history and culture of this fascinating civilization.

Visit: Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.