Pátzcuaro is a city and municipality located in the state of Michoacán, Mexico. Founded in the 1320s, it originally served as the capital and later the ceremonial center of the Purépecha Empire.
Following Spanish conquest, Vasco de Quiroga attempted to establish Pátzcuaro as the capital of the New Spain province of Michoacán; however, the seat of government was eventually moved to Valladolid after his death. The city has preserved its colonial and indigenous character and is officially designated as one of Mexico's "Pueblos Mágicos."
The region surrounding Pátzcuaro is notably recognized for its Day of the Dead celebrations.