On January 6, 2024, the city of Mérida in the Yucatan state of Mexico will commemorate the 482nd anniversary of its founding by Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo “El Moso”. Built on the ancient Mayan settlement of Ichaanjo, the city has a rich and diverse heritage that reflects a blend of Mayan, Spanish, African, French, Lebanese, and other cultures.
Mérida is known as the “White City” for its colonial architecture, including the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, the oldest cathedral in the continental United States, and Paseo de Montejo, a grand boulevard inspired by the Champs-Elysées in Paris. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, theaters, art galleries, and festivals showcasing local and regional traditions such as jallana dance, trova music, and hanal piksan rituals.
Mérida was recognized as the first American Capital of Culture in 2000 and 2017, and was recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy in 2019. Its cuisine is a delicious blend of Mayan, European, and Middle Eastern influences, and features dishes such as cochinita he pibil. , Sopa de Lima, Queso Relleno, Panuchos.
The city is also a gateway to explore Yucatan’s natural and archaeological wonders, including cenotes, underground water sources considered sacred by the Maya, and ancient cities such as Chichen Itza, Uxmal and Mayapan.
Mérida is a city that respects the past, celebrates the present and looks forward to the future. It is a city that welcomes visitors with open arms and invites them to discover its secrets and charms. It’s a city with a lot to offer and a lot to celebrate.
TYT Newsroom
