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The park was actually part of a private property last century and many of the fountains you can see were built after that. Since ancient times, the city of Uruapan has been considered one of the most-beautiful places in all of Michoacán. Chosen as a place of recreation by Purépecha emperors, the park is still widely enjoyed by Puréchas today as I observe families in native rebozos, huaraches, and sombreros joining me on the park trails. The sun-dappled paths lead to the Cupatitzio River, the source of the "singing waters". The "modern" history of the park began when Toribicio Ruiz acquired the then much larger property, and in turn bequeathed the lands to his son, Lic. Eduardo Ruiz, for whom the park is named¹. Eduardo Ruiz then gave the lands to his daughter, Josephina, and the estate became known as "La Quinta Josephina" during that time. At the end of the 1930's, President Lázaro Cárdenas authorized the purchase of the lands from the remaining Ruiz family. On November 2, 1938, the land officially became a national park. Cárdenas then ordered the building of roads into the area, and the improvement of park facilities by adding fountains and dining areas so that this remote location could be enjoyed by many new visitors to the region. Hailing from Michoacán, President Cárdenas was instrumental in preserving this jewel of Michoacán for all of Mexico. Sadly, with the growth of Uruapan over the years, the once huge park was reduced to its current 19 hectares. But what a beautiful 19 hectares it is! very trail in the park meanders along the Cupatitzio River and its many moods. Quiet pools, rushing white water, tumbling water falls, and man-made fountains may be enjoyed from bridges that cross the river several times. The fountains and bridges are named, fittingly, with Purépecha names. Our hike will take us past Julhiata (the Sun); Teshkukua (the Rainbow); Nana Kutzi (the Moon); and Janikua Tzitziki (the Rain Flower). The lovely words seem to echo the sounds of the tumbling waters. The true meaning of Cupatitzio, (as in Cupatitzio River) is "to dive into water", but over generations the meaning has evolved into "the singing river". I hope this helps Eduardo
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