 The territory has been inhabited by the Nahuas, Otomis, Matlatzincas, Pirindas and Tecos as well as the Purépecha.The main prehispanic civilization of the state is that of the Purépecha, which was centered in the Lake Pátzcuaro area.Before the 13th century, both Nahua and Purépecha peoples were here, sustaining themselves by agriculture and fishing.