Janitzio Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Janitzio
Island
Isla de Janitzio
Statue of José María Morelos at Janitzio
Country	Mexico
State	Michoacán
Time zone	UTC-6 (CST)

Isla de Janitzio (pronounced xa-NEET-see-oh) is the biggest of five islands in Lake Pátzcuaro. This lake is found in the state of Michoacán, Mexico.

The town of Janitzio sits on top of a hill on the island. The name Janitzio means "maize flower" in the Purépecha language. You can only get to Janitzio by boat. Boats leave regularly from the Pátzcuaro pier. The boat ride to the island takes about 25 minutes.

What Makes Janitzio Special?
The José María Morelos Statue
People and Culture
Weather in Janitzio
Gallery
See also

What Makes Janitzio Special?

Janitzio is famous for its unique "butterfly fishermen." These skilled fishermen use large nets shaped like butterflies. They catch a special fish called "pescado blanco" (white fish). This fish is a type of silverside found only in Lake Pátzcuaro. It is very important for the local food.

Long ago, these butterfly fishermen were shown on the back of the 50 Mexican peso banknote. This banknote is now a valuable item for collectors. The island is also the subject of a music piece called Janitzio, written by Silvestre Revueltas in 1933.

The José María Morelos Statue

On the highest point of the island, there is a huge statue of José María Morelos. He was a great hero of Mexico's independence. The statue is 40 meters (about 130 feet) tall. It was started in 1933. You can see this impressive statue from your boat as you arrive at the island.

Visitors can climb to the very top of the statue. Inside, a staircase spirals upwards. Along the inner walls, you can see murals that show the life story of Morelos. These murals were painted by Ramón Alba de la Canal and other Mexican artists. From the top, you can look out through small openings in Morelos's giant raised fist. These openings offer amazing views of the island, the lake, and the surrounding area.

People and Culture

Many people living in Janitzio and around Lake Pátzcuaro are Purépecha. They are an indigenous group. In Janitzio, you can find many beautiful handmade crafts. Local artists sell a variety of textiles and artwork.

The main celebration on the island is "Día de Muertos," also known as Day of the Dead. During this special time, candle-lit boat parades travel to the island. They then go to Janitzio's Church and graveyard. Families stay there all night for a big, festive gathering.

Weather in Janitzio

The area around Janitzio has mild, spring-like weather for most of the year. It is known for its "mild, dry climate." Temperatures rarely go above 27 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit), even in summer. Daytime temperatures stay pretty much the same all year. However, it can get quite cold at night from November to March.

The rainy season runs from May to October. July and August are usually the wettest months. You can expect quick thunderstorms during the summer months, from June to September. The rest of the year is quite dry.