Mérida, the iconic capital of Yucatán, celebrates 483 years since its founding. Established on January 6, 1542, by Francisco de Montejo “El Mozo” on the remains of the ancient Mayan city of T’Hó, Mérida has become one of Mexico’s most important tourist destinations due to its rich cultural, architectural, and gastronomic heritage.
Here are 10 fascinating facts about Mérida that make the “White City” unique:
1. Foundation and Name
Mérida was founded by Francisco de Montejo “El Mozo” and named after the Roman ruins of Mérida in Extremadura, Spain, which the pre-Hispanic buildings reminded him of. Residents of Mérida are known as meridanos.
2. Origin of the Nickname “White City”
The nickname has various interpretations: the use of white limestone in its buildings, the cleanliness of its streets, and the traditional clothing of its inhabitants. Another version attributes it to the predominantly white population during the colonial era.
3. Paseo Montejo: Inspired by Paris
Built between the 19th and 20th centuries, Paseo Montejo is inspired by the Champs-Élysées in Paris. This avenue houses Mérida’s most elegant mansions and is a must-see for visitors.
4. First Cathedral in Mexico
The Cathedral of San Ildefonso, built between 1562 and 1598, is the first cathedral constructed on solid ground in America. Its Renaissance façade and Moorish-style towers are notable features.
5. Government Palace and Its Murals
The current Government Palace of Mérida, built at the end of the 19th century, houses 27 murals by Fernando Castro Pacheco that narrate Yucatán’s political history. Its eclectic architecture makes it an icon of the city.
6. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya
Inspired by the ceiba tree, this museum houses over a thousand archaeological pieces showcasing the greatness of the Mayan civilization. It is one of the most modern venues in Latin America.
7. Monumento a la Patria: A Stone-Carved Masterpiece
Located on Paseo Montejo, the Monumento a la Patria is the only monument in Mexico carved entirely in stone. Created by Colombian artist Rómulo Rozo, it took 11 years to complete.
8. Plaza Grande: The Heart of Mérida
Also known as Plaza de la Independencia, this plaza has been the social and cultural epicenter of the city for over three centuries. The confident chairs invite close conversations between visitors.
9. Calesas: A Traditional Tour
The horse-drawn carriage ride is a classic Mérida experience. Recently, electric carriages were introduced to preserve the well-being of the horses, a measure applauded by both locals and tourists.
10. International Recognition
Mérida was ranked fourth in the Large Cities category in the Best Cities in the World: 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler magazine, solidifying its position as a world-class tourist destination.
Source: UNO TV
