Monday, February 13, 2006

Tzintzuntzan and the Arts and Crafts Market

The arts and crafts market in the center of town is the main attraction in Tzintzuntzan (seen-soon-sahn) but there is also the very interesting grounds of the monastery and the ruins on the hill behind called Yacatas (Yácatas).

The construction of the large Franciscan monastery of Santa Ana began in 1526. They saved a great deal of time and labor by tearing down much of the Purépecha temples. After 100 years as a monastery it was converted to a school until 1964. Now it's open to public at no charge. The olive trees on the grounds are said to be the oldest in North America.



Arts and crafts in the Tzintzuntzan market


More stuff - looks like Christmas


Church right behind the market


Yacatas Ruins



More Tzintzuntzan Pictures

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