Experience Highlights
- Duration: Half day
We will explore the historical centre of Merida, built more than 450 years ago on the site of T’ho, an ancient Mayan city. We will visit the magnificent Cathedral of San Ildefonso, built with the stones of ancient Maya temples. Construction of this cathedral began in 1561, and it is therefore the oldest one in Latin America. Inside we can find murals depicting the meeting between Francisco de Montejo – founder of Merida - and the Mayan King Tutl Xiu.
We will visit Casa Montejo, the grandiose home of Francisco de Montejo, and the Governor's Palace, housing 27 huge murals by Don Fernando Castro Pacheco illustrating the somewhat violent history of Yucatan. From the beautiful tree-shaded Plaza Principal (central square) we can take pictures of the Cathedral, the Palacio Municipal (town hall), Casa Montejo, and the Governor's Palace. Finally, we drive along the historical boulevard Paseo Montejo - fashioned after the Champs Elysees - with its stately homes, shops and quaint restaurants.
Kristen Lanskail-Morris
Travel Specialist