Merida

Merida is the capital of the state of Yucatan. At one time, it was also the capital of the entire peninsula. A city full of history, it is called the White City (Ciudad Blanca), a colonial city par excellence. Its colonial heritage can be seen everywhere.

There is so much to see here: The cathedral, the Governor's Palace, City Hall, Cortes' House (which is a museum), and many small churches all over in the city. Every weekend, it is possible to enjoy cultural activities right in the main plaza.

When Spaniards arrived in 1540, this city, known by the Mayans as Ichcansiho or Ti'ho, was already partially abandoned. In most of the colonial cities in Mexico, stones from pyramids were incorporated into new buildings. Some investigations have suggested that there had been a settlement here since the Pre Classic period, around 300 BC.