Tag Archives: Yucatán’s capital

Explore the Cultural Richness of Mérida, Yucatán

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Not many of our Mexico aficionados have explored the Yucatán. If you are mesmerized by culture and history and pyramids without crowds, Mérida founded by the Spanish in the 1500’s and constructed by stones from Mayan ruins should be on your travel list! My first Journey was in 2017 and I am anxious to return and explore more.

A dynamic fusion of colonial influences and Maya heritage makes the Yucatán Peninsula a wonderfully diverse destination. The delightful state capital is Mérida, a gorgeous colonial city of traditional markets, idyllic squares, and a commercial hub. Catedral de San Ildefonso, one of the oldest churches in the Americas dating back to 1598). The Yucatán’s capital, Mérida, is an unhurried city of pastel crayon colored 19th Century Spanish Colonial mansions and traditional squares accented by popular public parks. One of the safest cities in Mexico, not only is it an architectural gem, it treasures its Mayan heritage. Folk dancing takes place on the closed off historic square on Saturday nights, and bike riding can be enjoyed in Paseo Montejo, which is closed to cars on Sundays. Mérida was founded in 1542 and was named after the town of Mérida in Extremadura Spain. The city was built on the site of the Maya city of “Tho.” Tho had been a center of Mayan culture for centuries and because of this, some historians consider Mérida the oldest continually occupied city in the Americas.

In the wider area, visitors can explore some of the world’s best archaeological sites including New Wonder of the World, Chichen Itza. Outdoors adventures come in the form of freshwater, underground cenotes and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, home to a diverse range of tropical wildlife. Paradise is in the white sands and blue seas of Yucatan’s Caribbean coast. Stay at our recommended hotels for easy access to Mérida’s museum and fine dining and then add a week at a private Hacienda.

  • Merida
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I stayed at the biosphere resort Chablé Yucatán (or at least dine at their fabulous Ix’im restaurant). On the Riviera Maya, there’s also Hotel Esencia and Maroma.  In town, in the heart of Mérida, we recommend Casa Lecanda: a stunning restoration project in the heart of Mérida, this hotel exudes historic charm and is elegantly designed to bring the tranquility of the Caribbean to your stay in the city. Built around a central courtyard with a beautiful pool, the entire property seems to flow from one space to the next. There are also luscious gardens throughout, an elegant dining space (where breakfast is served), and various hammocks strategically placed throughout where an afternoon siesta can easily be enjoyed.

Maya civilization is one of the seven founding cultures of mankind, along with Babylon, Egypt, and Greece. The Mayans created a writing system and documented astronomical cycles, the history of lineages, and their worldview. More than two thousand archeological remains are buried in the tropical forest, showing us the sophisticated architecture they had.

We would suggest starting your Journey here and ending in a restored private Hacienda. Our haciendas and villas are destinations themselves. Endowed with expansive spaces and a delightful atmosphere and will make you feel at home. Secluded in the Mayan forest, the haciendas provide a dialogue between old and modern architecture. Privacy and warm attention, garden-to-table cuisine, and a catalog of soothing activities are some of the treats of this scenario. 

At the turn of the century, merchants who had grown rich on the trade in sisal rope brought great wealth to Mérida. The city retains a European feel, with many of the older buildings built from French bricks and tiles, brought over as ballast in trading ships. Like the rest of the peninsula, it had little effective contact with central Mexico until the 1960s and looked to Europe for influence, thus the stark difference in character and style from most of other popular Mexican cities. From colonial times through the mid-19th century, Mérida was a walled city intended to protect the residents from periodic revolts by the indigenous Maya. Three of the original seven old Spanish city gates survive, but modern day Mérida has expanded well beyond the old city walls. The exposed brick streets were originally brought from Spain as ballast in the sailing ships, sailors replaced the ballast with ink wood harvested in Mérida.

A few days in Mérida itinerary: day one, enjoy a walking tour of Mérida, a city where a fascinating history and a vibrant culture seamlessly come together. Your journey commences at the renowned Plaza Grande, which is encompassed by colonial-style architecture and the awe-inspiring Mérida Cathedral. As you meander through the lively Mercado Lucas de Gálvez, you will be treated to a sensory feast of vibrant colors and enticing aromas, showcasing the local crafts and cuisine. Your exploration continues along the elegant Paseo de Montejo, adorned with majestic mansions and sculptures that echo the city’s opulent past.

Lastly, you will have the opportunity to admire the Monumento a la Patria, a monumental tribute to the rich history of Mexico, located along the Paseo de Montejo. You will later be returned to your hotel.

Day two: after breakfast, meet your guide and proceed towards cenote Kankirixche and Yalutzil, where enthralling underground expeditions await. As the sun’s rays gently penetrate the dense foliage of the jungle, you make your way down into the cavern’s refreshing depths, unveiling a captivating pool with a mesmerizing turquoise hue. Delicate stalactites gracefully hang from the cave’s ceiling, casting an otherworldly ambiance. The pristine waters, transparent as crystal, entice you for a revitalizing swim, while the abundant and diverse wildlife that envelops the cenote only enhances its irresistible charm. After time for lunch, you’ll make your way to Uxmal, one of many exquisite Mayan splendors. As you wander amidst the impeccably conserved temples, become fully engrossed in the architectural wonders of the Pyramid of the Magician, Governor’s Palace, and Nunnery Quadrangle. The intricately carved stones and elaborate designs proudly display the remarkable engineering and artistic skills of the Mayan civilization. You will end today back at your hotel for the rest of the day at leisure.

Get ready to step into a world of vibrant color and rich history as you journey to Izamal, affectionately known as “The Yellow City” of Yucatán. Nestled in the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, Izamal beckons with its striking colonial architecture, ancient Mayan pyramids, and warm hospitality. You’ll visit the Convento de San Antonio, a remarkable colonial monastery, as well as the enchanting pyramid. The streets paved with cobblestones emit a serene allure, beckoning visitors to explore the nearby markets and artisanal boutiques. After some time for lunch, immerse yourself in the vibrant creativity of Izamal’s artistic community, where past and present converge in celebration of imagination and skill. The amiable locals and the town’s distinctive fusion of Mayan and colonial elements combine to offer an indelible encounter, rendering Izamal a concealed treasure yearning to be unearthed.

Delving into the mysterious Loltun Caves is a mesmerizing expedition into the depths of Mayan history. The softly illuminated caverns unveil breathtaking stalactite formations, exposing the age-old mysteries hidden within the limestone walls. Explorers navigate through the subterranean passages, immersing themselves in the enchanting atmosphere. These caves act as a time capsule, providing a glimpse into the spiritual and ceremonial customs of the Mayan civilization, transforming this visit into an enlightening educational journey.

Continue on a trip to Hacienda Tabi in the southern region of Yucatán, which offers a captivating experience of both history and natural beauty. Nestled amidst vibrant foliage and remarkable architectural structures, this hacienda provides an immersive encounter with the cultural legacy of the Yucatán Peninsula. Delve into the ancient citrus groves, where you can marvel at the abundance of orange, lime, and tangerine trees. To culminate your visit, join a local family in the preparation of a delectable traditional Yucatecan delicacy: Cochinita Pibil, crafted with locally sourced organic ingredients.

The following day begin with the majestic pyramid, El Castillo, dominates the expansive archaeological site of Chichen Itzá, showcasing elaborate carvings and remarkable astronomical accuracy. Exploring the Great Ball Court and marveling at the enigmatic Caracol observatory offers valuable glimpses into the ancient Mayan civilization. Additionally, the Temple of the Warriors impresses with its grand columns, while the sacred Cenote Sagrado adds an element of intrigue.

Uxmal, The Pyramid of the Magician

Valladolid is a charming colonial city nestled in the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula. This small, yet vibrant city is known for its colonial architecture, including the San Servacio Church and the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena. Valladolid presents a diverse fusion of historical and cultural elements. Exploring the city center, you’ll encounter colorful colonial-era architecture, cobbled streets,and picturesque plazas. The local gastronomy, showcasing Yucatecan delicacies, further enriches the cultural immersion.

On your way back you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy Cenote Yokdzonot, a stunning natural sinkhole located near the town of Yokdzonot, approximately 7 kilometers south of the city of Valladolid. Cenote Yokdzonot is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The cenote is nestled within a cenote ecotourism park, where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Afterward, you’ll continue back to Merida for the rest of the day at leisure.

Not only is Mérida a wonderful draw on its own, the central location is the perfect starting point to explore the Mayan Route of ruins, cenotes (underwater sinkholes with crystal clear water), and refurbished haciendas. Some of the haciendas are private residences and we have access to the best of the best!

HOW TO GET TO Mérida & Yucatán. Visitors can fly into Merida International Airport, which is situated just over 10km from Mérida city center. The journey should take around 20 minutes by car.

Are Mérida & Yucatán Safe? The US. Department of State has said travel to Yucatán is okay.

Highly Recommend!

Mérida, Yucatán Gem

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Centro historico of Mérida

The Yucatán’s capital, Mérida, is an unhurried city of pastel crayon colored 19th Century Spanish Colonial mansions and traditional squares accented by popular public parks. One of the safest cities in Mexico, not only is it an architectural gem, it treasures its Mayan heritage. Folk dancing takes place on the closed off historic square on Saturday nights, and bike riding can be enjoyed in Paseo Montejo, which is closed to cars on Sundays. Mérida was founded in 1542 and was named after the town of Mérida in Extremadura Spain. The city was built on the site of the Maya city of “Tho.” Tho had been a center of Mayan culture for centuries and because of this, some historians consider Mérida the oldest continually occupied city in the Americas.

The Plaza Grande marks the center of the city, the centro historico of Merida. Bounded on four sides by buildings which include the Cathedral San Idelfonso, the Governor’s Palace, Casa Montejo (now inhabited by a Banamex), the MACAY museum, the Olimpo (a cultural center that houses gallery space, a movie theatre and the Planetarium) and the Ayuntamiento (City Hall), the Plaza Grande is a lovely park where people come to meet, sit, read the paper, sing, dance, chase the pigeons or just watch the world go by. Locals still ride in little horse-drawn taxis, which gather by the plaza in the evenings. Trios of trovadores wait to be hired for serenades and wander the corridors strumming their guitars.

At the turn of the century, merchants who had grown rich on the trade in sisal rope brought great wealth to Mérida. The city retains a European feel, with many of the older buildings built from French bricks and tiles, brought over as ballast in trading ships. Like the rest of the peninsula, it had little effective contact with central Mexico until the 1960s and looked to Europe for influence, thus the stark difference in character and style from most of other popular Mexican cities.

Ancient Mayan history is still evident in many buildings, carved Maya stones from ancient T’ho were widely used to build the Spanish colonial buildings that are abundant in central Mérida. Much of Mérida’s architecture from the colonial period through the 18th century and 19th century is still standing in the centro historico of the city.

From colonial times through the mid-19th century, Mérida was a walled city intended to protect the residents from periodic revolts by the indigenous Maya. Three of the original seven old Spanish city gates survive, but modern day Mérida has expanded well beyond the old city walls.The exposed brick streets were originally brought from Spain as ballast in the sailing ships, sailors replaced the ballast with ink wood harvested in Mérida.

Mérida and the state of Yucatán have traditionally been isolated from the rest of the country by geography, creating a unique culture. The conquistadors found the Mayan culture to be incredibly resilient, and their attempts to eradicate Mayan tradition, religion, and culture had only moderate success.  The surviving remnants of the Mayan culture can be seen every day, in dress, language, and in both written and oral histories. It is especially apparent on holidays like Hanal Pixan, a Mayan/Catholic Day of the Dead celebration. It falls on November 1 and 2 (one day for adults, and one for children). Many of the local ladies still wear the traditional white dress decorated in beautiful embroidery.

Not only is Mérida a wonderful draw on its own, the central location is the perfect starting point to explore the Mayan Route of ruins, cenotes (underwater sinkholes with crystal clear water), and refurbished haciendas. Some of the haciendas are private residences and we have access to the best of the best!

Uxmal

I spent three days with a couple of extremely knowledgeable guides – I was wildly impressed with both guides and loved exploring Mérida and Uxmal, one of the largest and most important archaeological sites of Mayan culture. The Mayan town of Uxmal, in Yucatán, was founded c. A.D. 700 and had 25,000 inhabitants. The layout of the buildings, which date from between 700 and 1000, reveals knowledge of astronomy. The Pyramid of the Soothsayer, as the Spaniards called it, dominates the ceremonial center, which has well-designed buildings decorated with a profusion of symbolic motifs and sculptures depicting Chaac, the god of rain. The ceremonial sites of Uxmal, Kabah, Labna and Sayil are considered the high points of Mayan art and architecture. Uxmal is only about 40 miles from Merida. Spend a week here and vary your days: lounging about, exploring Mérida and venturing out to the archeological sites.

Despite the large population of Mérida, the area feels sleepy and calm, it doesn’t exhibit the rush rush energy of a large city; small villages dot the country roads, week long fiestas are popular in the tranquil towns outside the city. Mérida, itself can lay claim to a couple of well known chefs – I met two who had trained under chef René Redzep at Noma, the world famous Copenhagen restaurant. Roberto Solis, owner and chef at Néctar is a former Noma chef and he also cooked at Per Se in New York. Our dinner at Néctar, a small unassuming restaurant was amazing and the  very reasonable tab was beyond belief for the amount of food and wine we enjoyed, under the watchful care of friendly and efficient staff. The New Yucatecan Cuisine, as Solis describes it, is traditional in a sense, but wildly innovative.

Don’t miss the Mercado market teeming with vendors of fresh fruits and vegetables, piles of  indigenous spices, housewares – a massive mecca of interesting food and home items. If you like poking through cemeteries, the Cementerio General is spectacular.

This is not a traditional bustling city like Mexico City – Mérida has a relaxed vibe, love the proximity to Mayan ruins without the crowds, love the authentic city and the very friendly locals.

Planning another escape soon! Highly recommend and we can help you organize the VV Best guides, dining, private experiences and hacienda resort stay. We can also arrange visits to private haciendas for cooking classes with well known local chefs.