Morelia was the next stop on our list. As we drove into town we saw the typical Mexican fare–small tiendas, brick houses, signage everywhere, etc. We didn’t expect much, because we’ve never heard people say much about Morelia.
When the road suddenly turned upwards, we were taken off guard as we drove into a full-blown, gorgeous colonial city!
The Spaniards arrived in this area in the 1500’s, and most buildings were built in the 1600’s to 1700’s. It is flooded with history!
Morelia certainly deserves its place on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Cites. WOW!
Did we make a wrong turn to Europe?
They started construction of the Cathedral of Morelia in 1640, but it wasn’t completed until 1744).
We spent some time hanging out in the main plaza, the center of the action in most Mexican cities. Here, the children sat among a huge crowd of people watching a clown show. Maiya continues to multi-task with her fingers.
A group of restaurant stalls were housed under these archways. We caught some sub-par dinner, here. You never know what you’re going to get in different places through Mexico. Here, “tacos” meant little corn tortillas folded in half with a bit of meat stuffing, and FRIED crispy until all flavor is gone. Oh well! We can’t win them all!
We also discovered a large display set up for Day of the Dead. This “garden” of gigantic painted skulls adorned this smaller plaza, and marigolds were arranged very artfully on the ground.
The best part about this small plaza, however, was a GASPACHO fruit cup! Gaspacho, a fruit cup, is not be confused with gazpacho (a Spanish veggie soup), and it is a long-standing tradition in Morelia! You would not believe the lines waiting for this special treat at half a dozen fruterias in this square! It was madness!
So, you don’t think a fruit cup sounds that exciting, eh? Think again!
These fruit vendors dice mango, jicama, and pineapple into ITTY BITTY pieces, throw it in a cup, and pour fresh orange juice over it. The result? HEAVEN!
Of course, that is my gringa version of the dessert. Mexicans prefer it topped with salt, chili, and a crumbled cheese. They looked at me like I was crazy when I opted not to have those additional toppings! Other variations might have papaya instead of mango (ugh). Now, I’m not a jicama fan, but I’m telling you…with that fresh OJ soaking into it…you’ll become a fan, too!
Our trip to town was only for one evening. I hope to spend more time in Morelia, someday. It is definitely worth a visit, and a revisit! And of course, don’t forget to have some gaspacho!!!
