Merida & the Yucatan
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the historically beautiful city of Merida has much to offer within its city walls and surrounding area of the Yucatan. Merida’s convenient location makes it easy to explore the many archealogical sites in the area such as such as Uxmal, Labna, Kabah, Sayil and the newly appointed 7 Wonder of the World: Chichen Itza. Also within the vicinity of Merida’s beautiful city are picturesque cenotes (sinkholes in underground river systems) and the Reserva de la Biosfera Ria Celestun, a biosphere reserve and habitat of hundreds of pink flamingos. Merida can also be used as base center to visit some of the close by cities of Campeche, Progresso and even Cancun. Mexico’s tour and bus systems are an inexpensive and reliable way
Known as the “White City”, Merida is built upon the ruins of the Mayan city T’ho, which was constructed with white limestone. It was founded in 1542 by the Spaniard Francisco de Montejo and it became a prosperous center for the production of henequén, a fiber suitable for making rope and twine. The legacy of those times remain in the architecturally striking colonial buildings that house the city’s history, art, traditions and culture.
Merida is one of the most charming and safest cities in Mexico that combines Mayan roots with European splendor. Do not let this precious city slip between your finger tips as it is one of those cities that you must have on your list to visit.
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to see so much of the area. Make sure you take advantage of them!
In the Historic Center of downtown Merida, you can visit the impressive 16th century cathedral or spend some time in the many museums in the area such as the Yucatan Museum of Archeology. Step back into time and take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage down the city’s main avenue, Paseo Montejo, which is lined with 19th century mansions and renowned hotels. Don’t forget to try authentic Yucatecan cuisine while you are in Merida. Papadzules and panuchos are made with stuffed corn tortillas and topped with hot sauce. Cochinita pibil is a delicious pork marinated in orange juice and served with beans and red onion. Mouth watering and a blast of cultural flavor mmmm!