If you’re entering Mérida from the north, one of the first landmarks you will notice is the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya. It is a large, round, green-cladded building standing prominently beside the Mérida-Progreso highway like a massive ceiba tree. The ceiba, the most sacred tree for the ancient Maya, was the concept behind the museum’s contemporary design. The award-winning structure is a fitting edifice for the richness of Maya culture it holds inside. The galleries feature hundreds of Maya archaeological artifacts, temporary exhibitions, a modern art display, and an exterior installation. Families will be especially pleased to find the museum dedicated to engaging children with regular family activities.
Children's Workshops
The museum features two 90-minute workshops for kids each month—one on Saturdays, and another on Sundays, both at 11 am. The workshop activities are well-planned and really make learning about Maya civilization enjoyable and engaging for young minds. The morning begins with a brief tour through the museum, in which a guide explains the exhibits relevant to the day’s activity in an interactive way. The last time we went, the activity centered on music and art so we examined ancient instruments and discussed the role of music in Maya civilization. Afterwards, we followed the guide into the children's creative space, “Mejen Paalal” (little children), where the kids participated in a hand painting activity. We all had a fabulous time!
Saturday Storytime
In addition to the workshops above, families can attend a storytelling session in the reading area “Ts’íibil T’aan” (written word) on Saturday mornings at 10 am. What better place to hear Maya myths and legends than at the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya? The museum also hosts special events around the holidays so you can follow their social media pages to stay tuned for that.
Planning your visit with kids
For the children’s activities pre-registry is required, so send an email a few days in advance with your name, the event you’re planning to attend, and the ages of your kids. The workshops and storytelling sessions are free, and tailored for kids aged 6-12 accompanied by an adult. Remind them beforehand not to run or touch the exhibits, and to raise their hand if they have a question. It is important to note that food, water, and large bags are not allowed inside the museum, so you will be asked to leave them in a securely guarded parcel area (phones and small personal items are permitted). There is a small café upstairs that offers drinks, snacks and sandwiches. Bathrooms are found in the entry lobby, as well as in the children's workshop area.
A family day out at the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a delightful experience for both children and adults. You will be captivated by ancient stories, engaged in an interactive tour, and create lasting memories together as you discover the wonders of Maya civilization!
Calle 60 #299-E, Unidad Revolución, Mérida
Tel. 999 341 0435
visitas@granmuseodelmundomaya.com.mx
www.granmuseodelmundomaya.com.mx
FB: Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida
IG: granmuseomaya
Wed. - Mon. 9 am - 5 pm
Admission*:
Foreign nationals: $150 pesos
Mexican citizens: $100 pesos
Yucatecan resident: $50 pesos
Children and seniors: $25 pesos
*The weekend activities for children are free.
Learn this one ¡And even more! Indoor Activities with Kids in Mérida
Photography by Monica Starling for use in Yucatán Today.
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