Old College of Saint Nicholas (Museum of Popular Arts and Industries)

It is located on the corner of Árciga and Alcantarillas streets, one block south of the Basilica. It was founded by Don Vasco de Quiroga in 1540, who gave it dedication in honor of the patron saint of his native town, Madrigal de las Altas Torres, who was San Nicolás Obispo. Don Vasco's idea when establishing this school was to create an education center for Spanish priests, who were needed not only in his bishopric, but throughout New Spain. It is said that its constitution was so successful that when years later the Council of Trent ordered the construction of new seminaries to prepare priests, the organization given to these study centers seemed copied from that which Don Vasco had given to his college.

It is said that this school is the oldest that exists in America, since it still continues its work - although with a different nature and in another place -, since when the episcopal see was transferred to Valladolid, the school was also transferred with its privileges and property to the new city, where it was merged with the San Miguel School. Becoming one, both schools continued working until later the institution gave rise to the current University of San Nicolás de Hidalgo. Therefore, the original name given to it by its creator has been preserved and that of the Father of Independence has been added, who, as is well known, studied and professed at said institution.

The original building, in Pátzcuaro, has been converted into the Museum of Popular Arts and shows in its layout a complete knowledge of both the architecture of Pátzcuaro and the needs of such a museum, so its visit is not only instructive , but one of the most pleasant that can be done. This museum has one of the largest and best collections of lacquerware, maque and peribanas from Uruapan, Peribán, Quiroga and Pátzcuaro where you can observe the richness and exquisite taste with which they were made. It is also possible to see a great assortment and variety of ceramics, burnished and glazed earthenware, as well as different works in wood, textiles, wheat, tule, quarry, stone, cane paste, wax, silver, copper, sheet and wrought iron among others. materials, which demonstrates the artisan wealth that the state of Michoacán has.

At the same time, you can admire the famous cow bone floor, which in the 18th century was used at the entrance to the ranches, some pre-Hispanic archaeological remains discovered in the backyard of the building and an authentic barn from the Michoacan mountains. Be sure to visit this museum.