merida

Merida


The capital city of the state of Yucatan is a quaint colonial city with a strong Mayan influence. The “white city” title it bears stems from the white limestone used for most of the city’s buildings including the majestic mansions that populate the sides of Paseo de Montejo, a tree lined boulevard that is to Merida what Champs Elysées is to Paris or Paseo de la Reforma is to Mexico City. One of the finest mansions on Paseo Montejo, the Canton Palace, houses the Museum of Anthropology. At the Plaza Grande or Main Plaza one can admire the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, the Montejo Palace -named after the founder of Merida- and the Government Palace which holds some beautiful paintings and murals inside. Within the city limits are several restored haciendas which can be toured; some also offer accommodations. And remember to try the local food since Yucatecan gastronomy is one of the best in all of Mexico. Merida provides an ideal base for excursions and tours. Take a tour along the Puuc route to the archaeological sites of Uxmal, Kabah, Sayil, Xlapac and Labna, and the caverns of Loltun. Go back in time and visit old haciendas, explore underground caverns and swim in cenotes, stroll through the colonial town of Izamal and visit the Franciscan monastery, stop at the ruins of Dzibilchaltun on the way to the port of Progreso… The list is long when it comes to things to do in and around Merida.