
Merida is famous for the guayabera, a loose fitting men’s shirt with tucks and pockets. You can catch weekly performances in Merida’s central plaza.Ĭhances are that you’ll spend at least part of your Yucatán vacation shopping for handicrafts. It plays an important role in the Vaquerías Feast which was originally associated with the branding of cattle on Yucatecan haciendas. The traditional music and dance of Yucatan is known as Vaqueria Regional. The cuisine in Merida Yucatan is also distinct in that it differs from traditional Mexican cuisine and is representative of the local indigenous culture and the Caribbean, Mexican, European and Middle Eastern influences in the region. Not only is Spanish spoken with a distinct accent in Yucatan, but Yucatecan Maya is spoken by one third of the population of Yucatan state. The unique culture and traditions that you’ll experience when you travel to Merida, Mexico are overwhelmingly apparent in the local dress, language, cuisine and the observance of holidays and celebrations. Mérida gets its nickname, La Ciudad Blanca (The White City), from the predominance of white limestone that was used as a building material although locals today will tell you that it also has to do with the cleanliness of the city’s streets and public areas, not to mention how safe is Merida, Mexico.Īs a result of its unique geographic location, strong Spanish influence and isolation from other parts of Mexico, Merida developed a distinct cultural and political identity. The city boasts the second-largest historic center in Mexico only Mexico City’s historic center is larger. Merida was built as a walled city and several of the old Spanish city gates remain. After the arrival of the Spanish, the ancient city’s five main pyramids were destroyed and their ruins used in the construction of Merida’s cathedral and other important buildings.


Mérida was founded in 1542 by Francisco de Montejo “el Mozo” (the son), and built on the site of the ancient Maya city T’ho, meaning “city of five hills.” T’ho was the center of Mayan culture and activity in the Yucatan region. A major center of commerce, Merida Yucatan is considered the crossroads of the region and one of the most important places to experience the Mayan heritage. It’s a modern, cosmopolitan city with museums, art galleries, restaurants, shops, and boutiques. Merida is the capital and largest city in Yucatan state and the cultural and financial capital of the region.
