Sightseeing in Merida - what to see. Complete travel guide

Merida is one of the oldest cities in Mexico. Tourists are attracted by sunny weather that is the most typical for this place during whole year. In ancient times the Maya settlement named Ichkaanziho, which literally means "city on five hills", was located on the site of a modern city. For several hundreds of years this city was the cultural center of the Maya. During the construction of first settlements the Spanish colonists used the stones that had remained from ancient buildings.

The historic center of Merida is decorated with beautiful old buildings, among which we should definitely mention the Main Cathedral. During the tour guides will surely show you those old rocks, which are also present in the walls of the cathedral. Another architectural landmark, which has survived since middle ages, is the remains of the fortress gates and walls. Once they symbolized the entrance of the city and today the territory of the city has gone far beyond these restrictive gates. Besides historical monuments Merida is rich in museums, exhibitions, and galleries. In some of them you can see the exhibition of works by contemporary painters and sculptors, while others will tell you about the city's history and development. Like any ancient city, Merida keeps a rich collection of archeological artifacts that can be seen by anyone.

While visiting modern movie theaters, restaurants and bars, you'll be amazed by the amazing contrasts of the colonial buildings. Many hotels are opened in old houses, but inside they are beautiful design complexes equipped according to the latest trends in technology. Merida features numerous cultural programs and attractions for visitors of this magnificent place. Tasting of local specialties, walking on the ancient streets of Merida, sightseeing and beautiful legends that shroud the city's history - this is only a small part of activities that should be included into the program of any traveler. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The best place for hiking is the historic Paseo de Montejo Boulevard. At the end of the 19th century, the most prosperous townspeople built their luxurious mansions on this street. Many architectural monuments of colonial times have survived to this day. An even greater charm is given to the boulevard by the ancient trees. Presently in the historical buildings are the most prestigious hotels and restaurants in Meridaas well as famous entertainment venues.

On the boulevard is located the magnificent Palacio Canton, which is now the site of the Regional Museum of Anthropology. Within its walls is a rich collection of historical exhibits dedicated to the culture and life of the indigenous inhabitants of Yucatán. A significant part of the exposition is devoted to the Mayan culture. Among them, one can see unique cult artifacts and priceless finds of archeologists.

One of the main historical symbols of Mérida is the Casa de Montejo Mansion, the oldest building in the city that was built in 1542. From the moment of construction until the 70s of the 20th century, this mansion belonged to the Montejo family. Now it has a museum and a cultural center. In the mansion, environment of the past was maximally preserved. A collection of antique furniture, household items and works of art, as well as belongings of former owners, are preserved in it.

The greatest architectural monument is the Palacio de Gobierno Palace, within which government offices of the State of Yucatán are now located. Part of the palace is open to visitors. Here travelers can admire the frescoes of the famous artist Fernando Castro Pacheco, as well as appreciate the historical setting preserved in the palace. The palace has a large information center for tourists, where one can find out about the planned cultural and recreational activities in the city.

Not far from the main cathedral is the Museum of Contemporary Art Ateneo, which features works by the most famous artists and sculptors of the State of Yucatán. The second floor of the museum is used for temporary exhibitions and master classes. Here tourists can learn how to weave hammocks and paint ceremonial Maya masks themselves. Many people visit the exhibition center specially to buy interesting handmade souvenirs.