Hotel Mansion Merida

Published Thursday, august 15 2019

No. #380

Details

The Maya depended on farming as much as all ancient civilizations did; and as we still do today. The Yucatecan version of the farm is known as the "milpa." This month, Andrea Medina takes us on a journey to the Yucatecan milpa, with an insight that could only come from someone who grew up in the heart of the peninsula, without electronics, surrounded by nature and indigenous communities. She tells us about the planting, the irrigation provided by rain, and the blessings provided by the Yucatecan sun. Corn, beans, squash, and chiles are all local crops that grow in the milpa. Andrea's perspective is unique: she has a special interest in healing, agriculture, and education. She's a biologist with a doctorate in Mesoamerican studies, focused on Maya cultures. The culture of the milpa is part of the story; for example, you will learn about one essential thing that has to be present when the harvest takes place. You will also learn how the Maya keep the milpa traditions alive today.