Alleys, large white houses and small hidden squares characterize the center of Tacámbaro de Codallos. Plaza del Santo Niño is one of the hidden squares that lead to Plaza Principal. There is also a cathedral with a copper dome, regional dishes and natural attractions ranging from the crater lake to waterfalls. When choosing accommodation, you can consider whether you want your stay to focus more on architectural history, cuisine or outdoor activities.
Alleys, Plaza and Cathedral
The center is characterized by its alleys, large white houses and small squares. Plaza del Santo Niño is an example of one of these somewhat hidden squares that lead to Plaza Principal. The cornerstone of Catedral de San Jerónimo was laid in 1540. The Augustinians began construction there after returning from evangelizing in Tlapa and Chilapa.
Catedral Diocesana de San Jerónimo has the only dome in Michoacán clad in hammered copper. It is considered an example of Baroque, Neoclassical and Plateresque architecture. For a visit focused on architectural history, its early construction, its Augustinian context and its exceptional dome offer specific points of interest.
Crater Lake, Views and Waterfalls
Alberca del Rey Tacamba is a sacred lake in the crater of an extinct volcano. Lush vegetation surrounds the lake, and local legends are also part of its character. Alberca is suitable for hiking, meditation and climbing. Check the safety and operating conditions for these activities locally.
At Parque Ecológico Cerro Hueco, you’ll find a natural viewpoint with gazebos and recreational areas; from there, panoramic views extend over Tierra Caliente. Parque Ecoturístico Laguna de la Magdalena offers opportunities for swimming, fishing and zip-lining, as well as other outdoor activities. Check locally to see which activities are available.
Cascadas de Las Joyas includes the Santa Rosa and El Capiri waterfalls. Its natural setting is suitable for adventure activities. Before visiting, find out about access and safety conditions locally. The natural attractions therefore differ in the activities they offer: views and recreation are the focus at Cerro Hueco, while activities on and above the water are also available at Laguna.
Regional Cuisine and Crafts
Tacámbaro’s regional specialties include Carnitas de Tacámbaro, Aporreado, Corundas, Tacos al Vapor and Uchepos. Mercado de Antojitos Marcos A. Jiménez offers traditional dishes such as Corundas, Uchepos and Enchiladas Placeras. Corundas and Uchepos are therefore both among the regional specialties and on the market’s menu; Enchiladas Placeras add to the selection there.
Crafts are also part of the local character. Huinumu, a pine needle, and corn husks are used to make items including baskets, bags, vases and tortilla holders. Individual artisans and their offerings may vary.
Cultural Sites and Traditions
Santuario de la Virgen de Fátima houses the “Vírgenes Refugiadas”: images that were brought to Tacámbaro from Poland, Hungary, Lithuania and Cuba during the religious persecution of Catholicism. The sanctuary also contains a replica of the Holy Sepulchre.
Centro Cultural Amalia Solórzano is located in the former villa of the wife of former president Lázaro Cárdenas. Today, it is a museum with cultural exhibitions; the current program may vary. Feria Michoacana de las Carnitas was founded in 2013 to establish Tacámbaro as a gastronomic and cultural destination.
Other cultural highlights include the “Son de las Laderas” festival, an Encuentro de Teatro, the Fiesta Patronal de San Jerónimo and Día de Muertos. A Day of the Dead altar is highlighted as the largest in Michoacán. The Batalla de Tacámbaro is also part of the cultural heritage emphasized in the city. If a festival is important to your travel plans, confirm its current dates in advance.
Discover more destinations: Los Reyes De Salgado, Santa Clara Del Cobre, Ciudad Hidalgo, Ario De Rosales, Santa Fe De La Laguna, Morelia, Paracho, Tupitina.
For the broader travel overview: Michoacán.
