Mérida In Brief

History

Mérida, the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, boasts a rich history that intertwines indigenous heritage and colonial influences.

Founded in 1542, it was built atop the ancient city of T’ho, which was the center of Mayan culture and activity. Spanish conquistadors destroyed T’ho’s pyramids and used the ruins to build Mérida’s cathedral and other buildings. Despite the destruction, Maya culture survived, and more than half of Mérida’s residents speak both Spanish and a Mayan language.

In the 19th century, the area surrounding Mérida prospered from the cultivation of henequen, the fiber of which was used in the production of rope and twine and nicknamed “The Green Gold.” The economic boom attracted new immigrants, particularly from Europe, which further contributed to the cultural landscape.

Today, Mérida has emerged as a cultural center, celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, unique cuisine, beautiful colonial architecture, and commitment to preserving its multicultural identity. The city is also the perfect gateway to exploring the rich history of Yucatán.

The wider peninsula, with its stunning archaeological sites like Chichén Itzá and Uxmal, reflects the ancient Maya civilization’s achievements in architecture, astronomy, and mathematics. The region’s unique geography, characterized by an extensive network of limestone formations called cenotes, continues to inspire locals and visitors today.

Trivia

A few fun facts:

→ The Cathedral of Mérida is the oldest in the mainland Americas. The carved stones from T'ho are still visible in its walls.

→ The city has the third largest old-town district on the continent.

→ It was the first city to be named American Capital of Culture, and the only city that has received the title twice.

→ Mérida is among the safest cities of Mexico as well as in the Americas. In 2015, the city was certified as an International Safe Community by the Karolinska Institute of Sweden for its high level of public security.

→ Forbes has ranked Mérida three times as one of the three best cities in Mexico to live, invest and do business.

→ In 2022, the United Nations's City Prosperity Index recognized Mérida as the city with the highest quality of life in Mexico.

don’t just take it from us…

Here’s what the pros have to say:

“Bustling streets, lively parks, a tropical version of the Champs-Elysées, endless cultural activities, and a varied nightlife: Mérida is the beating urban heart of the Yucatán … as the cultural and intellectual hub of the peninsula, Mérida is rich in art, history, and tradition.”
—Fodor’s

“A delightful blend of provincial and cosmopolitan, it is a town steeped in colonial history. It’s a great place to explore, with narrow streets, broad central plazas and the region’s best museums. It’s also a perfect place from which to kick off your adventure into the rest of Yucatán state. It has excellent cuisine and accommodations, thriving markets, and events happening just about every night.”
—Lonely Planet

“I love Mérida for its vibrant blend of history and culture. The stunning colonial architecture, lively markets, and rich Mayan heritage create an enchanting atmosphere. The warmth of its people and the delicious local cuisine make every visit feel like a celebration, offering a deep connection to the region’s fascinating past.”
—ChatGPT