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Morelia Mexico Morelia lies about halfway between Guadalajara and Mexico City, and makes a good stopover midway in the 16 h6ur drive. Highway 15 turns into the main street of town.

So many of Morelia's elegant old buildings have been preserved that the city is practically a museum of Spanish and Mexican history. Ordinances require that all new construction conforms to the style of the early architecture.

For strollers. Downtown Morelia is an inexhaustible outlet for those who love to use their feet to explore a new town. The most intriguing old buildings are clustered around two central plazasPlaza de los Martires and Plaza de la Paz. Many visitors think the Plaza de los Martires is one of Mexico's most beautiful. Lacy detail and ornamental ironwork soften the tall, mosquelike arches of its nostalgic old band pavilion; the delicate foliage of stately jacaranda and other flowering trees casts latticed shade across the broad pasco, or walkway. On Sundays especially, Morelia's plaza is full of activity and the atmosphere of Mexico.

It is just a few steps from the Plaza de los Martires to Morelia's lovely old cathedral. Over a century (from 1640 to 1744) was needed to build this graceful, twin spired building.

Morelia Attraction From the cathedral, it is an easy stroll to the Museo del Estado. This museum is small enough so that you won't get "museum legs," yet interesting enough to make a visit well worthwhile. Of particular interest is the collection of whimsical, pre Columbian sculpture.

Morelia's central market is at the end of Valladolid Street, about five blocks cast of the Plaza de los Martires. On market days (usually Sunday and Thursday), the market overflows the big central pavilion and extends along Valladolid Street for several blocks. Among the many handicraft articles displayed, huaraches and hammocks are the best bargains.

Near the market is the Casa de Morelos. Besides its historical and architectural importance, the old home contains memorabilia of the famous patriot Jose Maria Morelos.

At the eastern edge of the city you'll see the imposing stone aqueduct with 30 foot high arches extending down the middle of Highway 15. Nearby is the beautiful Sanctuary of the Virgin of Guadalupe. On the outskirts of town is the neoclassic church, La Iglesia del Nino de la Salud.

Where to stay. Morelia has a languid Old World tempo and charm that appeals to overnight visitors features that, when combined with sunny days and moderate climate, explain why so many come here for extended vacations.

For short stays there is a charming colonial hostelry facing the plaza, and also several inexpensive hotels. Patrons staying longer usually head for one of the informal, resort type complexes on the hill overlooking the town. A public golf course adds much to Morelia's recreational pleasures.