"The economy and society of Castile was diverse and complex, but the economic ideas of the ragtag colonists were very simple in the main. They were to acquire lands and the labor to work them; such landholding in Spain involved immense prestige as well as wealth."
That is how T.R. Fehrenbach in Fire and Blood describes the Spanish who came in the first wave of settlement in Mexico. Men intent on becoming wealthy through the acquisition of land and the labor of others.
I had just read that section of his book when I walked past this house in Pátzcuaro. You can either rent or buy it. I don't know the financal arrangements. But it has nine bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.
At least, that is what the sign says. I did not bother to look inside -- even though, it is probably about 400 years old.
Back in 2007, I started to look for houses exactly like this. I had this romantic notion that I would move to an ancient house in Mexico with as many staff members as there were bedrooms. And all of my family and friends would flock to Mexico to be part of my dream world.
Of course, it did not turn out like that. And, in talking wth other expatriates, variations on that theme seems to run through a lot of people's minds. In its rawest form, it maniffests itsef as the hacienda in perfect condition that costs only $25,000.
And now that I have let the buy-a-house demon out of Pandora's box, I need to keep some sense of reason. The lord-of-the-manor syndrome is liable to make a reappearance.
You will see what I mean at the start of next week as I parade my three options before you.
It should be a fun trip.
