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Merida
Merida is the capital of the Yucatan and depicts much of the splendour of Colonial Mexico containing many buildings in varying states of repair. This vibrant city was founded by the conquistadores in 1542 and built directly on top of an existing Mayan city. Its impressive cathedral is the oldest in Latin America, completed in 1559.
The city itself has a wealth of colonial architecture, in part a display of the prosperity brought about by the henequen industry. One of the best ways to see the city is to rent a horse drawn calesa (cart) and take a drive up the Paseo de Montejo, an impressive boulevard lined with colonial mansions.
The cathedral is also worth a visit, as this rather imposing building was constructed in 1561-98 from the stones of a Maya temple and was the first Catholic cathedral built on the American mainland. It is also the largest in the Yucatan peninsula. This is also one of the best places in the world to purchase a hammock and Merida's indoor market is the place to do this. You'll see many varieties, and most are sold to locals rather than to tourists as the hammock is a common furnishing in homes from the simplest to the grandest. It is said that more people in Merida own hammocks than shoes! A stay in Merida offers an alternative to the beach destinations and makes a good base to see the surrounding Mayan sites and other places of interest. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Below are some examples of what you can do around the area, though we can tailor any itinerary to suit your interests.
Celestun Biosphere Reserve. Half day. In the winter months the lagoons of this protected estuary play host to the largest flamingo colony in North America when about 20,000 gather along with thousands of other migratory waterfowl. Located in the Gulf of Mexico about 30 miles west of Merida. Dzibilchaltun. Half day. This unique Mayan site had been founded as early as 1000BC before evangelising friars built a 16thcentury chapel in the main plaza as a symbol of the invading religion. Each Mayan site was built close to a cenote – sinkholes used for drinking water and as a ceremonial portal to the underworld. At this site Cenote Xlaca is 44m deep and you can swim here amid the colourful fish. Located just north of Merida.
Izamal. Half day. This once major Mayan religious site was chosen by the Spanish as a centre to convert to the locals to Christianity. First they converted the physical site and a huge convent and church was begun in 1549, reusing Mayan stonework. The whole complex was painted rich ochre yellow leading to its nickname as ‘the golden city’. Located between Chichen Itza and Merida.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Merida
Opened in 2000, this is an 18th century sisal Hacienda set in over 9 acres of tropical gardens which has been restored with great attention to detail. Xcanatun has won multiple awards over the years and for good reason – it is a truly unique experience
Merida
This hotel is a real find – an elegant and romantic colonial property located just on the edge of the main centre, it is a refuge from the heat and noise of the city. The stone arches of the central courtyard are painted deep ochre which contrasts beautifully
Merida
This privately owned house is hidden away from the main centre of the city, and can be difficult to find! The house is not open to walk in customers and is one of those little gems which you only know if you have been to Merida.
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