The Purépecha Empire, also known as the Tarascan State, was a pre-Columbian civilization located in present-day Michoacán, Mexico. It thrived from the 14th to the 16th centuries and was known for its advanced metallurgy, particularly in working with copper and bronze. The empire was a significant rival to the Aztec Empire and maintained its independence through strategic alliances and military strength. The Purépecha people had a complex social structure and a rich cultural heritage, including unique pottery and textiles. Their capital, Tzintzuntzan, was an important political and religious center. The empire's decline began with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century, leading to its eventual conquest.