city, northwestern Michoacán estado (state), west-central Mexico. On the Lerma River, which forms the Michoacán-Guanajuato border, it 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 La Piedad's 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 chick-peas also raised in the environs provide additional income. Several highways converge on La Piedad, and the Mexico City–Guadalajara railroad passes north-northeast of the city. Pop. (2005) urban agglom., 229,289.