Can you imagine finding, in one single place, an enormous variety of hammocks in different colors and sizes? Yes, hammocks come in different sizes: single, double, and even family size, always woven by Yucatecan artisan hands with cotton or silk threads. This and much more, including talking with the artisans, is waiting for you at the Feria de las Hamacas (hammock fair) in Tecoh, only 30 minutes from Mérida.
This festival celebrates the agility, creativity, and dedication of the Yucatecan artisans who for months have prepared their products for this event that only takes place on March 20. Making a hammock takes one to two months, working several hours daily, with a process that continues to be improved; now you can even find some hammocks with figures woven into the pattern or even names. Incredible!
If you are looking for something to do close to Mérida, this could be an excellent option; for there are many other things to enjoy in Tecoh as well, which is why it is considered part of the Convent Route. Visit the church of the “Virgen de la Candelaria”, the Santa Cruz chapel, and of course the Franciscan style church and convent of the “Virgen de la Asunción,” built over a Maya pyramid. It has passageways, salons, and various paintings. The three buildings were built during the colonial era, in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Don’t miss the colorful market “García Buela” and try the “costritas,” a sweet pastry. You can get around on the “tricicletas,” a very traditional form of transportation.
Near Tecoh you will find the archaeological site of Mayapán, known for its murals and considered the last great Maya capital, with a main pyramid that is very similar to El Castillo at Chichén Itzá. Also visit the Crematorium, Observatory, Round Temple, and Painted Niches Temple, among other outstanding buildings. Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm.
If you love adventure, check out the Tzabnah caves, with 13 cenotes inside, on a tour which is about two hours long. Wear comfortable clothes and and bring lots of energy to walk through its passages that guide you to the deepest part of the Earth.
You can find hammocks, archaeology, food, adventure, cenotes, caves, and much more, in this wonderful town that is waiting for you to discover it.
Maps
– Península of Yucatán
– Convent Route
Editorial by Violeta H. Cantarell
Born in Mérida, Violeta is a communicologist dedicated to writing and creating content on tourism, fashion, and entrepreneurship. She has recently started working as an English-Spanish translator.
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