Cerro de la Crucita and Ruins of “El Palacio” (Zacapu)

 ⛰️🏺 The stone cradle of the Purépecha Empire.

Before Pátzcuaro or Tzintzuntzan dominated the horizon, power resided here. Cerro de la Crucita is the gateway to the enigmatic Malpaís de Zacapu, a monumental archaeological area built on volcanic lava flows. This site, known academically as “The Palace,” was a governing center where priests and chiefs resided during the early Postclassic period (AD 900-1200).

A Citadel in the Lava 🌋

What makes this site unique is its urban engineering adapted to the volcanic terrain:

• The Terraces: The slope of the hill presents an impressive system of stepped terraces that were used for housing and cultivation. Its layout is so complex that, visually, many travelers find similarities with the Andean constructions of the Incas.

• Vestiges: As you walk the trails, history springs from the ground. It is possible to see bases of yácatas (temples), remains of palaces, walls of houses and the mythical structure known locally as the “Pyramid of the Thirteen Thrones”.

• Distant Connections: The pottery found here demonstrates that this town was not isolated; They traded with places as far away as Tula (the Toltec capital), which explains the sophistication of its inhabitants.

The Change of Power 👑

The history of Michoacán is not understood without this hill. Although by the 16th century Zacapu remained a crucial administrative and religious center, supreme political power had already moved to Tzintzuntzan under the rule of Caltzontzin (the King). However, Zacapu remained a place of ancestral respect.

🌟 Our Recommendation

Hiking with history.

• Mountain Footwear: You are walking on volcanic stone (tezontle and basalt) and dirt trails. It is vital to wear boots or tennis shoes with good soles.

• El Mirador: Climb to the top of La Crucita. The panoramic view of the Zacapu Valley and the remaining lagoon will help you understand why the ancients chose this strategic place to guard their domains.

• Absolute Respect: If you find pieces of obsidian or ceramic (common), don't take them. They belong to the site and to the story; Leave them where they are so that others can also connect with the past.