Coat of Arms of The Cities Tzintzuntzan, Pátzcuaro, and Guayangareo

These are the coats of arms belonging to the cities of Tzitzuntzan, Pátzcuaro, and Guayangareo, which today is known Morelia. During colonial times they disputed over which city would become the capital of the state of Michoacan.

On the left we see the Tzintzuntzan coat of arms, which was the first capital of Michoacán in 1534, and the figures of Chiguacuan, Sinsicha and Chiguangua, who were Tarascan rulers of that region.

Underneath there are two sections and on the first one we can distinguish a set of Spanish weapons and three Hispanic characters, representing Spain's triumph. In the other, we see Sinischa, a Tarascan ruler, holding a crucifix, which symbolizes the acceptance of the Gospel.

This coat of arms represents Pátzcuaro, the second capital of Michoacán (1538). It illustrates the geography and the environment of the region, which is dominated by a lake. Saint Peter and Saint Paul are also showcased as they are patron saints of the city.

In the bottom we see Guayangareo's shield. This city was later renamed Valladolid, and today it is known as Morelia and is the current capital of Michoacan. The shield is divided into three sections, showcasing three monarchs.

As you will notice, for these cities to have an element that reflected their legal status and importance was crucial to solve the struggle as to which city would be crowned the capital of Michoacan, a scuffle that lasted from 1538 to 1786.