FB Pixel

Call us free on 0800 021 7732 We are open today between 9am and 5:30pm

Home/Worldwide Destinations/Mexico/Merida

Merida

Mérida is the capital of the Yucatán Peninsula. The city was founded by the Mayan Indians and named Tiho. In 1542 it was conquered by the Spanish conquistadores who dismantled the Mayan pyramids and used the stones as foundations for the cathedral. Modern Merida is a lovely colonial centre with a mixture of old building and modern bustling city.

Merida

Chichén Itzá

Merida

Chichén Itzá

Catholic Church

Chichén Itzá

Merida’s culture is a distinctive blend between the ancient Maya civilization dating back to 2600 BC and customs brought by Spanish conquistadors who began colonizing Merida in the 16th Century. The city was founded by Francisco de Montejo y León in 1542 on top of an ancient Maya city called T’ho, whose stonework was repurposed by the Spaniards as foundations to erect lofty Catholic churches and colonial mansions. After 500 years of coexistence, a comingling of rituals and beliefs created a vibrant cultural identity that continues to shape this dynamic city.

Seventy-five miles east of Merida lies the Chichén Itzá, one of the seven wonders of the world by UNESCO and one of Mexico’s most impressive and visited ruins. It is believed to have been built in the early 400s AD. Home to the El Castillo pyramid, it is one of the tallest and most remarkable examples of Maya architecture for its Light and Shadow feature which takes place on the northern staircase of the pyramid during both Spring and Autumn equinox the sun projects light that appears to move up and down along the balustrade which makes the silhouette of a snake.

Merida’s local markets are a bustling place to be the Mercado Lucas De Galvez and Mercado Santiago are full of lots of locally grown fruit and vegetables. Explore the markets and taste local produce including spicy habanero peppers, chaya, rambutan or Seville oranges a staple in Yucatecan cooking.

Our team of experts is on hand to help tailor-make your Canada holiday

Canada Expert GavinGavin
Canada Expert GillianGillian
Canada Expert KevinKevin
Canada Expert LauraLaura
Canada Expert PaulPaul
Canada Expert RichardRichard
Canada Expert SeanSean
Canada Expert VickiVicki

Speak to one of our experts on 0800 021 7732

We are open today between 9am and 5:30pm

Make an enquiry

We don't just know Canada, we love it!


Tailor Made for You

  • We tailor make every holiday made around you.
  • Tell us what you'd like to see, what type of accommodation you prefer and how you'd like to travel.
  • We'll plan your perfect holiday, helping you to get the most from your time and budget.


Expert Advice

  • We don't just know Canada, we love it!
  • Our Canada Experts have travelled throughout Canada. They'll answer your questions with facts not guesses.
  • You'll have a dedicated Travel Expert to look after each stage of your booking.


100% Protected

  • We've been helping people explore Canada for more than 30 years.
  • Every trip is 100% ATOL protected.
  • We're only ever a phone call away.
Request a brochure
Make an enquiry