Merida has preserved unique monuments of colonial times, which now form the unique architectural appearance of the city. In the heart of the historic district is the wonderful Catedral de Mérida, the oldest cathedral in South America. The construction of the church lasted for over forty years and was fully completed in 1598. Since then, it has been the largest building of its kind in Yucatan. Unique artistic and religious values are hidden inside, as well as frescoes of the late 16th century depicting the most important historical events for the region. The main relic of the church is the statue of the Black Christ. Beautiful religious holidays are held in the cathedral every year.
Active tourists will surely appreciate Merida, which is rich in natural attractions and entertainment centers. The city can offer Parque Zoologico del Centenario, which will be interesting …
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Near the cathedral is the main city square, which serves as the starting point of most excursion routes. The square itself is an important historical site that was founded in this place more than 500 years ago. In the center of the square, there was the city's largest source of drinking water, so it was always crowded here. At the beginning of the 17th century, the square was paved for the first time. With the advent of the colonial era, important administrative buildings and new residential streets began to be built next to it. Today, there are several beautiful monuments on the square, and its main decoration is a fountain. It was installed on the very spot where locals discovered a source of fresh water hundreds of years ago.
Merida's main cultural center is the Museum of Anthropology and History that occupies a splendid neoclassical mansion. The building with a snow-white facade was built in the early 20th century and is now surrounded by a lush garden. The museum boasts an interesting collection of artifacts dedicated to the Mayan culture, here you can see archaeological artifacts discovered during archaeological research. Antique tableware, stone sculptures, and wooden crafts, ceremonial attributes and decorations are just a small part of all the exhibits displayed. The permanent exhibition of the museum is located on the ground floor, and the halls of the next floor are used for temporary exhibitions. Copyright www.orangesmile.com
1. Merida has a mild temperate climate. It is not too hot here even in the midst of summer. Long rains are very rare, so you can travel in comfort at any time of the year. 2. The historic …
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No less interesting will be a tour of the Museo de la Ciudad Museum, whose collections illustrate the political and cultural development of the region. The opening of this museum took place in 1986. Another unique historic building was chosen as its location. The museum is housed in an old temple that was founded in the 17th century but lost its former religious significance over time. Today, its spacious halls store exhibits belonging to various historical periods. There is a very interesting hall of antiquities with a collection of archaeological exhibits, as well as thematic rooms dedicated to various areas of traditional art. A large part of the exposition is devoted to military clashes, in which residents of the region took part.
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Among Merida's architectural monuments, it is worth mentioning Palacio Municipal. The sumptuous one-story mansion with arcades was built in the first half of the 18th century and served as a royal residence in the early years. In the 18th century, a part of the building was occupied by a municipal prison where the most dangerous political prisoners were held. Presently, the historic mansion is owned by the city administration. After a major reconstruction in 1928, it has remained almost unchanged. On certain days, the administrative building retaining its original decoration is available for tours.
Merida is a great destination for incredible discoveries and explorations. If you've already visited the Mayan pyramids and all the outstanding museums of the city, it's time to go look for …
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The government of Yucatan also owns the beautiful Palacio de Gobierno Palace located near the main city square. The historic building is notable for its skillful frescoes created by the famous artist Fernando Castro Pacheco. His frescoes illustrate the difficult period of the struggle of the indigenous population with colonizers, and now they pay much attention to the restoration and preservation of art paintings. The palace stands out not only for its original external design but also for its well-preserved historic interior. Today, besides government offices, the palace houses the largest tourist center in the city.
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A historic monument symbolic for Merida is Casa de Montejo, a mansion that was officially recognized as the city's oldest building. The construction of the luxury mansion took place in the first half of the 16th century. From its foundation to the 70s of the last century, it was a private residence of the Montejo family. Descendants of the once-wealthy colonialists owned the luxurious mansion. Over the long history of the mansion's existence, its owners have managed to preserve collections of valuable family relics and antiquities. The mansion is currently converted into a museum and is open for tours.
In the section below, you can get one of our excursion, activities or city discovery tours over Merida and surroundings. Our website offers 10-30% lower ticket prices, when compared to the offline purchase on the spot.
City tours, excursions and tickets in Merida and surroundings
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Merida has preserved unique monuments of colonial times, which now form the unique architectural appearance of the city. In the heart of the historic district is the wonderful Catedral de Mérida, the oldest cathedral in South America. The construction of the church lasted for over forty years and was fully completed in 1598. Since then, it has been the largest building of its kind in Yucatan. Unique artistic and religious values are hidden inside, as well as frescoes of the late 16th century depicting the most important historical events for the region. The main relic of the church is the statue of the Black Christ. Beautiful religious holidays are held in the cathedral every year.
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Among Merida's architectural monuments, it is worth mentioning Palacio Municipal. The sumptuous one-story mansion with arcades was built in the first half of the 18th century and served as a royal residence in the early years. In the 18th century, a part of the building was occupied by a municipal prison where the most dangerous political prisoners were held. Presently, the historic mansion is owned by the city administration. After a major reconstruction in 1928, it has remained almost unchanged. On certain days, the administrative building retaining its original decoration is available for tours.
A historic monument symbolic for Merida is Casa de Montejo, a mansion that was officially recognized as the city's oldest building. The construction of the luxury mansion took place in the first half of the 16th century. From its foundation to the 70s of the last century, it was a private residence of the Montejo family. Descendants of the once-wealthy colonialists owned the luxurious mansion. Over the long history of the mansion's existence, its owners have managed to preserve collections of valuable family relics and antiquities. The mansion is currently converted into a museum and is open for tours. 
