Mérida - City information

Mérida is located about 200 km from the city of Campeche and 320 km from Cancun. In 2000 Merida was named Cultural Capital of America. It blends the timeless and the modern, respecting both tradition and new urban development. A walk around her streets and attractions brings the visitor a whole range of surprises. There is an excellent transportation system to take you to your destination, inside or outside the city. When exploring Yucatán, all roads lead to its beautiful capital Mérida, also called “the white city”. As well as being the Colonial city for excellence, Mérida is the ideal departure point for excursions to the main archaeological sites, cities and colonial towns.

The “old” Mérida:

Up until 500 years ago it was the ancient Mayan city of T'ho or Ichcaanshiho, or “Face of Infinity”. Mérida was founded in the year 1542 by Francisco de Montejo, “El Mozo” (The younger), after he overcame various Mayan lords, the splendid temples and places of worship reminded him of Spanish warriors. The beautifully carved limestone buildings with their ancient Roman mouldings of Mérida, Spain, inspired de Montejo to baptize this city with the same name as the imperial and secular Spanish metropolis.

Since its foundation, Mérida has existed as a colonial city, with streets and squares in a symmetrical grid in the style of the old Castilian and Andalucian towns. The original patterns prevail today.

At the end of the XIX century the population of Mérida was growing so fast that new residential areas began to materialize, in turn leading to the emergence of theaters, hospitals, schools, clubs and social centers. But perhaps the most significant appearance at this time was that of the haciendas, the result of a boom in the embryonic heneken industry in the state. This led to economic development, which in turn spurred the restoration and construction of innumerable public buildings, temples and private houses that adorn the city's most beautiful avenues to this day. The French influence is portrayed all over the constructions from the beginning of the century which also enjoyed the developed Sisal industry of the State.

Viewing the streets you can't help but feel the romantic, provincial atmosphere, testimony to a past rich in history and legend. In spite of modern touches, Mérida has conserved its colonial flavour, full of light and colours in every corner.

The "contemporary" Mérida:

Industrial and commercial development has opened Yucatán to a host of new opportunities. It is the ideal base for conventions and seminars at a national and international level. Mérida has an excellent infrastructure with an international airport, 5.000 hotel rooms and the magnificent Siglo XXI Century Yucatán Convention Center. The future-oriented economical development of Mérida make it a first class destination for a stay to learn Spanish and to make an internship.

Mérida is a cosmopolitan city which still conserves its colonial atmosphere and the majesty of its constructions. Coming to Mérida you are entering in a different world full of romanticism, culture and history.

The richness of its impressive colonial architecture is shown in marvelous buildings such as the Main Square, the built in 1598 St. Idelfons' Cathedral, the Governors Palace, the Nun's Church (Iglesia de Monjas), the for many "Yucatecos generations" considered limits of the city (Indians lived outside this limits) suburbs of Santiago, San Juan, San Sebastian, San Cristobal and Santa Ana; and the Ermita of Santa Isabel.

At night a delightful transformation takes place, when horse-drawn carriages and sidewalk cafes appear as if from nowhere, and mestizos and troubadours fill the starry night with music and poetry. The wonders and possibilities of the legendary White City will surprise you. The hospitality of the local people will enchant you.

At the weekend Mérida shows its most charming side: The historical center turns into a pedestrian area, restaurants and bars put chairs and tables on the street, concert stages and food stands are put up and in the green Zókalo park. You can see folcloristic dance shows or watch the locals strolling with their families and Mexicans getting their shoes polished. Maya women dressed in the typical Yucatecan costumes present their „artesania“ offer on the streets.

For this and much, much more, come to Mérida!

Mérida is a clean, safe and friendly city which will welcome you with open arms. It is ready to attend to all your needs.

Note: This page has been created for you to get familiar with the beautiful city of Mérida, its surrounding and our culture. Services, opening hours and prices can vary. We sincerely hope you find the information provided useful and informative.

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