Mérida is defined by its beauty and its warmth. Visitors know that they will find a beautiful historic center and great architectural wealth in the city. Nonetheless, for many, discovering the city’s not-so-obvious beauty is equally exciting.
This is exactly what happened to a friend of mine who was visiting Mérida for the first time. One night at a get together, my friend praised the city and acknowledged the beauty of the Centro Histórico; however, she still wanted to see more than the traditional, and asked me what streets she could wander to continue enjoying the colonial architecture of our beautiful Mérida.
This led me to go out and find those places that embellish the city, the same way as the Centro Histórico streets do.
Calle 59
Starting at the Parque Centenario, you’ll have a wonderful panorama in front of you as you head into Centro. Colorful mansions and small stores flaunt their architectonic details in this vibrant wide colonial style street; at times its beauty evokes the beautiful avenues of European cities. Enjoy the noise, the colors, and the people all along this day-to-day street.
Avenida Colón
Walking along this avenue you’ll feel you’ve gone back in time because of its ancient architecture. Take a stroll along this street and enjoy the incredible mansions that used to be inhabited by families from Mérida, now adapted to contemporary life. Take advantage of the shade of its trees and take a look at the “barrios” and surrounding streets, and be sure to visit the famous Parque de las Américas. It’s a “must” journey you should experience while in Mérida.
Avenida del Deportista
Located a few steps from the Salvador Alvarado stadium and from the Monumento a la Patria, is one of the most beautiful avenues in the city. With wide streets and big trees gracing its sidewalks, you will find architectural jewels like the Alcalá Martín mansion, considered one of the most beautiful houses of the city, and the building of the “Humanitas” University. If you are in Mérida, don’t miss the opportunity to walk along this short but beautiful avenue.
Paseo de Montejo
Resembling the beautiful boulevards of Paris, this grand avenue is graced with the typical mansions of the 19th century, such as the Casas Gemelas (twin houses) and the Palacio Cantón, whose beauty will inspire you as you stroll along this street and its cobbled sidewalks. Don’t miss the chance of walking along Paseo de Montejo and discovering all of its beauty.
Colonia Itzimná (Calle 21)
You will find this street a few steps from the Monumento a la Patria; a chance to get to know one of Mérida’s traditional neighborhood, full of big old houses with pure Yucatecan-style architecture. Find Calle 21 in this old Mérida “barrio” and wander through the streets, falling in love with its people, traditions, and daily life. Don’t miss the lovely Itzimná neighborhood next time you visit Mérida.
Editorial by Claudia Améndola
Photos by Yucatán Today, Laura Pasos and Claudia Améndola for Yucatán Today’s use
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