La Piedad Cavadas

La Piedad Cavadas, city, northwestern Michoacán estado (state), west-central Mexico. Situated on the Lerma River, which forms the border between Michoacán and Guanajuato states, the city is 314 miles (505 km) west-northwest of Mexico City and 119 miles (192 km) northwest of Morelia, the state capital. During the colonial era it was known as Zula la Vieja but was elevated to city rank and given its present name in 1871. Much of its economy is based on the raising of livestock (cattle, pigs) and on dairying. The city is known for its cheeses and butter. Corn (maize), beans, wheat, and chickpeas grown in the environs provide additional income. Several highways converge on the city, and the rail line between Mexico City and Guadalajara passes north-northeast of it. Pop. (2005) 78,361; metro. area, 229,289; (2010) 83,323; metro. area, 249,512.