Morelia, the capital of Michoacan, is considered the aristocrat of colonial cities. You will find a few modern buildings, but by and large the architecture has been kept in the traditions of Old Spain. Wide polished-stone streets and stately buildings give this city its special attraction. This superbly preserved city, with a university, an active cultural scene and a number of Spanish language courses is a good place for an extended visit, as many foreigners have discovered. Once the capital of the Purepecha Indians, Patzcuaro is located on the southeast shore of Lake Patzcuaro, and is known for its famous butterfly-net fishing of superb whitefish, its stately colonial architecture and for the area's interesting Day of the Death celebrations on November 1 and 2.