Mérida, Yucatán
Wednesday, March 8, 2006
The Plaza de la Independencia in Mérida is a very nice central square, or Zócalo.
The neighboring cathedral is the oldest one in North America, and was built between 1561 and 1598.
Opposite the cathedral is the attractive City Hall, built in the 18th century. It was about 90° F outside when this photograph was taken.
This is a section of the facade of Casa de Montejo, which was built in the mid–16th century by the most important family in Mérida. Note the unfortunate Mayan heads underneath the Conquistadors’ boots. This house is also located at the Plaza de la Independencia.
Mérida is the capital of the state of Yucatán, and was founded in 1542. We stayed at a hacienda about a hour from the city. From there we also visited Izamal with its pyramids, church complex and striking yellow color. The statue in the center commemorates a visit by Pope John Paul II to Izamal in 1993.
Next—Dzibilchaltún.
