Attractions and Sightseeing in Merida, Mexico

Casa de Montejo

Even though it was constructed more than 450 years ago, the incredible facade of this house is well preserved, proving the importance that this historic monument has always had for the city of Merida. Its ornamentation is a perfect example of the style that the Spaniards used in the 16th century, for which this building has been considered the most important jewel of "plateresco" art (an architectonic style, native to Spain, which is a fusion of Mudejar and Flamboyant Gothic influences) in the whole of Mexico. This luxurious property was the residence of the founder of the city and of his descendants until 1832. This is why the Montejo coat of arms is displayed proudly about the property, among many other sculpted stone figures, which highly accentuate the cornices, columns and balconies.

The Cathedral

In the heart of Merida's historic center, in front of the Zocalo, there's a gorgeous Cathedral. This beautiful ancient building is the result of the blending of three different architectural styles. It has a Renaissance facade, a Baroque altarpiece and a Moresque interior and towers. Construction of Merida's Cathedral started in 1561 and finished in 1598. The machinery of the huge clock it has was built in London in 1731 and it worked until 1871, when it finally told the time for the last time.

Izamal

Located near the capital city of Merida is the picturesque town of Izamal, a typical example of a Yucatecan town with its ample arches and striking yellow facades that forever remain in the memory of anyone who visits this place. The charming houses distributed throughout this peaceful town feature a distinct style rarely found in other colonial towns of the Yucatan Peninsula. Visited by Pope John Paul II, the San Antonio de Padua Convent houses the image of Our Lady of Izamal and should not be missed by anyone visiting this city. It's no wonder that Izamal was deemed a "Magic Town" by the Mexican Tourism Board.

Las Americas Park

This park is made up of four sections. The first area has a large fountain with stone snakes representing Kukulcan. The second park has an amphitheater and esplanade where cultural events take place once in a while. The third is for children: there are tracks where they can skate or ride a bike.

And finally the fourth park has a representation of a typical Mayan house, inside which there's a permanent display of murals from all over the American Continent and portraits of men and women who were important in the history of these countries. Three of the parks have columns with names and symbols representing the countries of the Latin-American Continent, there are also benches where people sit to read under the shade of the huge threes. This is a place where time seems to stop and tranquility reigns.

Museums

History is reconstructed piece by piece in some of the museums found in Merida. The Museo de Arte Popular (Popular Art Museum) has a permanent exhibition about the customs and art of the Mayan people. The Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) has pre-Hispanic, Colonial, Independence and Revolution pieces, as well as an exhibition about "The Rise of the Henequen Haciendas". The M.A.C.A.Y. Museum (Contemporary Art Museum) has the permanent shows of The History of Art and Mexican Silverware, as well as temporary exhibitions featuring sculptures and paintings. Cultural events are also held in this building.

Olimpo Cultural Center

Many interesting cultural events take place at the Olimpo Cultural Center, but for sure the main attraction is the Planetarium. The Planetarium was named after Dr. Arcadio Poveda who was in 1956 the first university educated Mexican astronomer. The Planetarium has a sophisticated light and sound system, providing the public with a fascinating virtual journey across the cosmos.

Paseo de Montejo

Built and named after the founder of Merida, Francisco de Montejo, this beautiful avenue and pedestrian walkway features the most impressive and elegant houses in the whole city. Paseo de Montejo was added to the rest of avenues and streets of Merida during the 19th century, a time when the Neoclassic architectural style was in vogue among many Mexican urban designers. These well preserved and luxurious buildings along Paseo de Montejo were once large manors and today are used as governmental or private offices, museums, sophisticated dance clubs, bars or restaurants. Whenever you visit Merida, you must take some time to see this peculiar avenue, the Mexican version of the Champs-Elysees in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Sotuta de Peon

It's hard to believe that there is still a sisal hemp-producing estate or hacienda nowadays. As strange as it may seem, however, Sotuta de Peon continues in operation and welcomes anyone interested in the hacienda's historical background. Like many other haciendas, Sotuta de Peon was of great economic importance in prior centuries because the industrialization process of the sisal hemp plant made Yucatan a very wealthy state. You can walk around this gorgeous hacienda and visit antique buildings, tour the whole estate in a mule-drawn wagon and even swim in a breathtaking cenote (or sink hole found within a cave). This is a truly unforgettable experience.

Sunday in Merida

Early every Sunday morning, the main streets of downtown Merida are closed to cars and buses to make way for a festival of colors, smells and sounds that can only be experienced in "The White City". The streets fill with food, handcraft and clothing stands, from where natives of Yucatan sell their goods to the public and children are able to walk, run and play safely in the street. In some parks poets read exerts of their latest works, painters display their paintings and cartoonists draw humorous portraits. One can walk, rent a bike or take a buggy ride; whatever you decide to do a "Sunday in Merida" is a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed!

Theaters

Merida's old theaters are beautiful architectural jewels that saw the birth and rise of the most famous actors and actresses of times gone by. The Peon Contreras Theater has a Neoclassic French style and was inaugurated in 1908. The Daniel Ayala Theater was built during the 17th Century and because it was the main theater of the city for many years, it was the venue where the best companies from Mexico and Cuba performed their plays. Another beautiful place to visit is the Merida Theater which was remodeled in 2000 and reopened after decades of being closed!

Turibus - Double-Decker Bus

Touring Merida on a double-decker bus is a memorable experience. Discover all the main attractions of the city while you sit comfortably in your bus and your guide gives you a complete explanation of Merida's historical landmarks, its architecture, and even its religious background. When you purchase the all-day tour, you can get on and off the bus as many times as you want at any of the Turibus stops. It is one of the best ways to get to know Merida, also known as "the White City".

Uxmal

Very close to Merida is the ancient city of Uxmal, the architecture of which is noted for its fretwork (elaborate ornamental design, normally geometric), friezes and arches of incredible beauty. Uxmal is one of the most important archeological zones, not only in the Yucatan but in the entire country. This is due to the impressive edifices such as the Pyramid of the Magician, the Governor's Palace and the House of the Turtles, which show visitors the history, art and legends of this magical place. Visits to Uxmal during the day can be satisfying, as well as a learning experience. Come and experience the Light and Sound Show at night, held in the Nunnery Cuadrangle.

The Zoo (The Centennial Park)

Taking the whole family to the zoo is one of the most popular things to do, with the people of Merida. At the zoo young and old can learn while having fun at the same time. Children can learn about the many species of animals, birds and insects; ride horses, skate on the rink or board a boat to paddle for a while on the artificial lake. However, a visit to the zoo is not complete unless the whole family takes a ride on the train. This is a train that tours around the park and offers a pretty exciting ride.