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of MichoacanMichoacan, which is an Aztec word meaning 'Place of
the Masters of Fish' lies on the west coast of Mexico. Its
capital, Morelia, is 195 miles due west of Mexico City. Not an
obvious tourist area, it is a state of quiet beauty, and has a
great variety of attractions.  In the east of the state lies the
Sanctuario Mariposa Monarca - the Monarch Butterfly Reserve. The
reserve may be visited between November, when the butterflies
start arriving from the USA, and March. In any given year there
may be between 200 and 500 million butterflies spending the
winter months here.  The capital, Morelia, has the cultural
attractions expected. Several museums, including the Michoacan
State Museum. Jose Maria Morelos y Pavon, who was an important
figure in the struggle for Mexico's independence, was born in
the city (and it is in fact named after him) and there are
several museums dedicated to him, including his birthplace and
his own home. Another mu