Iconic Houses of Mérida

If you think you’re familiar with Mérida, keep on reading and put your knowledge to the test with this selection of iconic houses in the city. Take note and pay them a visit.

Casa de Montejo

We begin the tour at one of the oldest homes in the city, located next to the Plaza Grande. Built in the 16^th century, it stands out for its elaborate stone facade and period furnishings. It’s one of the most photographed sites of the Centro Histórico and currently holds art exhibits.

Don’t miss: Videomapping every Wednesday at 8 pm.

Calle 63 x 60 y 62, Centro Tue. – Sat. 10 am – 7 pm Sun. 10 am – 2 pm
Free admission, guided visits, and handcrafts shop.

Casa Morisca

One of the most beautiful houses to admire downtown. Its Arab-French style is like something out of a fairytale. Every since its construction, it has barely suffered any changes. Its facade is a taste of the Andalusian influence in Yucatecan architecture.

Don’t miss: Because it’s a private building you can only photograph the exterior.
Calle 51 x 56, Centro

Casa Azul

Located on Calle 60, very close to Paseo de Montejo, this house from the 19^th century was built during the time of Porfirio Díaz. Its intense blue exterior and decorative elements make it stand out.

Don’t miss: Take a break on the terrace of this restaurant-hotel.

Calle 60 #343 x 35 y 37, Centro
www.casaazulhotel.com

Avenida del Deportista

This short street is very close to the Monumento a la Patria and is lined by European-influenced houses you’ll surely want to photograph. Most are used as residences, offices, and schools, so take a look at their exteriors and gardens.

El Pinar

This pink and grey-toned private residence resembles a castle. Its architectural style, influenced primarily by the French Renaissance, is very unique.

Don’t miss: Go up to the second floor of Paseo 60 for an unmeasurable view of this Casona.

Calle 60 next to the hotel zone

Let’s continue the tour through the beautiful Paseo de Montejo, where you can see plenty of houses with European influence, mainly French and Italian.

Casa Faller

Located close to Itzimná, it stands out because of the arches at the entrance, its stone facade, fountain and beautiful surrounding gardens.

Don’t miss: Only available for events and photo shoots.
Av. Pérez Ponce 403, Itzimná

Casas Cámara

Better known as “the twin houses”, they are a reference for Mérida locals. They were built with French architectural elements (you can appreciate this in the ironwork of its doors and balconies). They are one of the city’s favorite spots to photograph. Since they are private residences, you can only look at the outside.

Don’t miss: Create your own photo shoot in front of this architectural beauty.
Paseo de Montejo #492 x 45 y 43

El Minaret

This mansion draws your attention because of its Moorish-influenced lookout. The “Minaret” maintains the beauty of its rooms, terrace and basement.

Don’t miss: It’s only available for special events, but these are sometimes open to the public.
Paseo de Montejo #473 x 45 y 43.
www.elminaretmerida.com

Casa Museo Montes Molina

This beautiful Casona, once named “Villa Beatriz,” is located in the heart of Paseo de Montejo and know for its charm and eclectic, mostly neoclassic architecture. It’s been transformed into a museum that offers guided visits.

Don’t miss: The European period furnishings. You’ll feel as if you’re time travelling.

Paseo Montejo #469 x 33-A y 35
www.laquintamm.com

Palacio Cantón

This building shows off the baroque-style of the early 20th century and is home to the Regional Museum of Anthropology. With marble stairs and floors, its construction material was brought specially from France, Italy and Germany.

Don’t miss: It has the first elevator, of German origin, installed in Yucatán.
Paseo Montejo #485 x 43, Paseo de Montejo

Editorial by Violeta H. Cantarell
Photography by Quinta Montes Molina, Laura Pasos and Casa Azul