Merida Vacations

1. Dzibilchaltún - Mayan Ruin Site

Dzibilchaltún gives you a unique and fascinating insight into the history, arts, architecture, language, clothing and religion of the Maya. Approximately 20,000 inhabitants once lived in Dzibilchaltún, which means "where inscriptions are in the stones". With 8,400 objects, Dzibilchaltún is one of the largest excavation sites in Mexico. In addition to the meticulously decorated temples and small pyramids, Dzibilchaltún also contains a beautiful cenote - a natural pit where the collapse of the limestone ceiling has exposed the groundwater below.

2. Museo Fernando García Ponce - MACAY

The Fernando García Ponce Museum of Contemporary Art shows you works by various modern artists who are unfortunately still largely unknown in the northern hemisphere. The museum's namesake 'Ponce' for example, was an abstract painter who is considered a pioneer of the 'Generación de la Ruptura' era through his collages and paintings. However, the sprawling museum is not only known for its frequently changing exhibits, but also for its great building and palm-filled courtyard, which serves as a cool oasis in Mérida's warm climate.

3. Plaza Grande

Nothing reflects the charm of the city better than the historic center. This is where the lively present meets history. You will always find a quiet place to linger here, unless of course you come to the Plaza Grande on Sunday. On weekends, there are often city festivals with lots of live music and delicious food on offer. You can also admire the light shows that take place every evening, during which motifs are beamed onto the old walls of the houses. Very atmospheric!

4. Casa de los Montejo

If you want to get a feel for the life of the Spanish colonial masters, the Casa de los Montejo Museum is the place to go. Originally, the building was constructed to house soldiers who fought the Mayans in the 16th century. It then became the official residence of the Montejo family in Merida. The mansion has been restored to its original splendor and the curators have done an amazing job of showing the transformation of the building through the different eras.

5. Cathedral of Mérida

This double-domed cathedral is the stuff of many myths. For example, it is said to be the first church in the Americas. It is also said to have been built from stones from a Mayan pyramid that previously stood on the same site. What is undisputed, however, is that it is the tallest cathedral in Yucatán and that you will find a beautiful Catholic church that captivates with its paintings, sacred art and massive pipe organ. Less