Anniversary of the death of Tangaxoan II

February 14th: Memory and Honor to the Last Cazonci

While much of the world celebrates Valentine's Day, in Pátzcuaro, February 14th holds a much deeper and more solemn meaning. It is the day the region pauses to honor the memory of Tangáxoan Tzíntzicha (Tangáxoan II), the last ruler of the Purépecha Empire, unjustly executed in 1530.

Who was the last Cazonci? Tangáxoan II assumed the throne in 1521, at a critical moment following the death of his father, Zuanga, from smallpox brought by Europeans. His name has powerful meanings: “He of the good teeth” and “Man who builds fortresses.” As Cazonci, he was not only the political and legal leader, but also the divine representative on earth of Curicaueri, the god of fire and war. His responsibilities ranged from summoning the people to battle to providing firewood for the sacred fire and dispensing justice.

The Pact and the Betrayal Faced with the arrival of the Spanish, led by Cristóbal de Olid, in 1522, and knowing the tragic fate of the Mexica in Tenochtitlán, Tangáxoan made a strategic decision: to forge a peace treaty to save his people from total annihilation. He managed to maintain a degree of autonomy and retain some land, thus avoiding immediate bloodshed.

However, history took a dark turn with the arrival of Nuño de Guzmán, a conquistador known for his cruelty. In 1529, he falsely accused the Cazonci of:

• Keeping their former religion a secret.

• Encourage disobedience.

• To kill Spaniards.

The Martyrdom After a summary and unjust trial, Tangáxoan II was condemned to death. On February 14, 1530, he was dragged by a horse, strangled, and finally burned at the stake. His death was not in vain: it ignited the flame of resistance led by his daughter, Princess Eréndira.

🕯️ La Ceremonia Actual Every February 14th, history comes to life. Purépecha Council, together with representatives of the indigenous communities and the government of Pátzcuaro, they hold a solemn civic ceremony. The meeting point is the Monument to Tangáxoan II, where honor guards are mounted, floral offerings are placed, and speeches are given that remind us that the Purépecha legacy is still alive and resilient.

Event Location: Tangáxoan II Roundabout.