Fuente de las Tarascas Morelia
A stunning bronze fountain depicting three Purépecha women, a vibrant symbol of Morelia's rich indigenous heritage and a beloved city landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Fuente de las Tarascas Morelia
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning bronze fountain depicting three Purépecha women, a vibrant symbol of Morelia's rich indigenous heritage and a beloved city landmark.
"A very beautiful park and city landmark, it's also a great spot to catch a great big to eat or a bus downtown."
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos. The light beautifully highlights the bronze sculptures.
👂 Hear the Legend
Ask locals or do a quick search to learn the tragic yet enriching story behind the fountain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Tarascan Women
Centerpiece of the fountain
Iconic bronze sculptures of three Purépecha women holding a fruit bowl, symbolizing strength and heritage.
Purépecha Heritage
The fountain itself
A powerful symbol of the indigenous Purépecha culture, representing their history and artistic legacy.
Iconic City Landmark
Plaza Morelos
A central meeting point and beloved symbol of Morelia, often featured in local events and parades.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Photos
Understand the Legend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos. The light beautifully highlights the bronze sculptures.
👂 Hear the Legend
Ask locals or do a quick search to learn the tragic yet enriching story behind the fountain.
🚶♀️ Walk to Nearby Sights
The fountain is a short walk from the cathedral and other downtown attractions.
📍 Central Meeting Point
A popular spot for gatherings and events, often featured in parades.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos. The light beautifully highlights the bronze sculptures.
👂 Hear the Legend
Ask locals or do a quick search to learn the tragic yet enriching story behind the fountain.
🚶♀️ Walk to Nearby Sights
The fountain is a short walk from the cathedral and other downtown attractions.
📍 Central Meeting Point
A popular spot for gatherings and events, often featured in parades.
🍲 Try Local Flavors
Nearby vendors offer local treats like 'elotes' with traditional Tarascan sauce.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Fuente de las Tarascas as a beautiful and iconic landmark in Morelia, rich with cultural significance and a captivating legend. It's a must-see for its artistic merit and historical storytelling, offering a central point for exploring the charming downtown area.
"Was here for día de los Muertos and it was quite a cultural experience. A 1 hr beautiful parade, followed by 3 more hours of closed off streets with entertainment.
Unaware of any public restrooms, however."
C Johnson
"This is a very beautiful park and city landmark. It's know as as the fountain of the naked women for those who can't remember its name. Take pictures by the fountain or by the big "Morelia" letters. Its also a great spot to catch a great big to eat or a bus downtown. But no need to catch a bus downtown because its just a 10 minute walk to the cathedral."
StoryBoard Films International
"They believed they were three princesses, and one day their sculpture was taken. Nobody knows what happened to the original sculpture.
Nice place!!👍"
iarand
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fuente de las Tarascas is centrally located in Plaza Morelos, making it easily accessible. Many visitors walk from the Morelia Cathedral, which is about a 10-minute stroll away. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available to take you directly to the plaza.
Street parking can be challenging in the busy downtown area. It's often more convenient to use public transportation, taxis, or walk from your accommodation if you're staying nearby. Some paid parking lots are available a few blocks away.
Yes, the Fuente de las Tarascas and the Morelia Aqueduct are located very close to each other. You can easily view both landmarks from various vantage points, and aerial shots often capture them together.
Public restroom availability can be limited in the immediate vicinity of the fountain. It's advisable to use facilities at nearby cafes, restaurants, or public buildings before or after your visit.
Walking is the best way to explore the area around the Fuente de las Tarascas. You can easily reach other key attractions like the Cathedral, Callejón del Romance, and Plaza de Armas on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Fuente de las Tarascas is a public monument located in Plaza Morelos, and there is no admission fee to view it. You can visit and admire it at any time.
As an outdoor public monument, the Fuente de las Tarascas is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding plaza and nearby businesses will have their own operating hours.
To avoid the largest crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially during local festivals or holidays.
Many walking tours of Morelia include a stop at the Fuente de las Tarascas, offering insights into its history and legends. Check with local tour operators for availability and schedules.
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged. The fountain is a very photogenic landmark, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful lighting for photographs of the fountain. The warm light enhances the bronze and the surrounding plaza.
Yes, you can get great shots from various angles in Plaza Morelos. For a unique perspective, consider the views from the nearby Morelia Aqueduct or from higher ground if available.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show aerial views, it's best to check local ordinances regarding drone operation in public spaces to avoid any issues.
A standard camera or smartphone is perfectly adequate. If you have a wide-angle lens, it can be useful for capturing the entire fountain and its surroundings.
Don't miss capturing the three Tarascan women, the intricate details of the bronze work, and the fountain with the Morelia Aqueduct in the background. Photos during local events can also be very dynamic.
🍽️ 🍲 Food & Dining
Yes, the area around the fountain is bustling with food options. You can find street vendors selling local snacks like 'elotes' with traditional Tarascan sauce, as well as restaurants and cafes nearby.
Look for 'elotes' (corn on the cob) with various toppings, including the signature Tarascan sauce. Carnitas and other Michoacán specialties are also available at nearby eateries.
While the fountain is named after the Tarascan people, Tarascan soup itself might be found in more traditional restaurants in Morelia, rather than directly at street vendors near the fountain.
Yes, Avenida Madero Oriente, which is very close to the fountain, has numerous restaurants offering a range of cuisines, from local Michoacán dishes to international options.
Street food and snacks are generally very affordable. Sit-down restaurants will vary in price, but you can find options for various budgets. Expect mid-range prices for most restaurants in the downtown area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby, you can find street vendors selling fun snacks like 'elotes' which are always a hit with children. Consider combining your visit with a walk to the nearby Cathedral or exploring the Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías for a sweet treat and souvenirs.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money on food, explore the street food vendors around the plaza for affordable and delicious local snacks like 'elotes'. Walking to nearby attractions like the Cathedral and other downtown sights also helps cut down on transportation costs.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles, including shots that incorporate the Morelia Aqueduct in the background. Consider visiting during local events for dynamic, candid shots of people interacting with this iconic landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend and History of the Fuente de las Tarascas
The current bronze sculptures, created by artist José Luis Padilla Retana in 1984, depict three Purépecha women holding up a fruit bowl. This imagery is deeply connected to the indigenous Purépecha culture of Michoacán, representing their strength, heritage, and connection to the land. The story behind the fountain is often described as 'beautifully tragic,' adding a layer of poignancy to its presence.
This landmark is not just an artistic piece but a cultural icon for Morelia. It serves as a central meeting point, a backdrop for celebrations, and a constant reminder of the region's rich indigenous past. Its significance is so profound that it's even been featured in local art and community logos.
Experiencing Morelia's Downtown
Beyond these immediate landmarks, the downtown area is a treasure trove of cultural experiences. You can visit the Museo del Dulce (Sweet Museum) to indulge in local confections, or explore the Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías for unique souvenirs. The Jardín de las Rosas is a beautiful garden perfect for a moment of tranquility, and the Casa de la Cultura offers a glimpse into Morelia's artistic scene.
Many visitors find that the downtown area is best explored on foot, allowing for spontaneous discoveries and a deeper appreciation of the city's colonial charm and 'cantera rosa' architecture. The proximity of these attractions to the Fuente de las Tarascas makes it an excellent base for a day of sightseeing.
Morelia's Festivals and Events
Beyond national holidays, the fountain has been a gathering point for various marches and demonstrations, highlighting its significance as a public space for civic expression. It also serves as a backdrop for cultural events, such as the annual Festival del Rebozo, encouraging locals and visitors to showcase traditional Mexican attire.
Attending an event at the Fuente de las Tarascas offers a unique opportunity to experience Morelia's culture firsthand. While these events can draw large crowds, they provide an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the city and its people.

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