Drowsing in the mountain sunshine at 2,170 metres above sea level, Patzcuaro has long been a centre for indigenous culture and folk crafts. Possibly it was the exodus of European power and authority that encouraged native traditional and folk art to flourish. Whether for its native crafts, mountain air, or the almost total lack of modern construction, this lakeside town is probably the most often visited of any in Michoacan state.

The tradition of fine craftsmanship continues to this day, and Michoacan has some of Mexico’s finest decorative and utilitarian art. Traditional gourd decoration incorporated techniques introduced from Asia. Other arts include weaving, embroidery, metal-smithing, and ceramics, especially tableware.