Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Public university in Morelia, Mexico
Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo is a public university in Morelia in the state of Michoacán. The campus spreads over several historic and modern buildings in the downtown area, with faculties for humanities, science, law, medicine and engineering.
Bishop Vasco de Quiroga established the institution in 1540 as Colegio de San Nicolás Obispo to train clergy for the region. The institution later gained university status and renamed itself in the 19th century to honor the independence hero Hidalgo.
The name honors Bishop Nicolás de Hidalgo, while the red stone buildings from different centuries gather around large courtyards with old trees. Students use the shaded arcades between lectures, and local families visit the public libraries and cultural events held throughout the year.
The main entrance sits in the old town, just a few streets from the historic center, and is easy to reach on foot. Most public areas like libraries and museums open during the day, but hours vary depending on the faculty and event schedule.
Miguel Hidalgo taught philosophy and theology here before he led the movement for Mexican independence. José María Morelos also studied at this place and later became another key leader in the fight against the Spanish crown.
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