Merida Mexico

History and culture of Merida

Merida, the capital city of the Mexican state of Yucatan, is a place rich in history and culture. Founded in 1542 by Spanish conquistadors on top of the ancient Mayan city of T'Ho, Merida is a unique blend of European and indigenous influences.


The city's architecture reflects its colonial past, with grand mansions and churches lining its streets. The most famous of these is the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, built in the 16th century and one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas. The city's historic center is also home to colorful houses, bustling markets, and leafy parks that give it a lively atmosphere.


But Merida's history goes back much further than its colonial period. Before the Spanish arrived, the area was inhabited by the Maya people, who left behind impressive ruins such as Uxmal and Chichen Itza. These archaeological sites are a testament to the advanced civilization that once thrived in this region.


Today, Merida continues to celebrate its cultural heritage through music, dance, and traditional festivals. One of the most popular events is Hanal Pixan, or Day of the Dead, where locals honor their deceased loved ones with altars and offerings. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with galleries showcasing contemporary Mexican artists alongside more traditional works.


In conclusion, Merida's history and culture are intertwined in a way that makes it a truly special place to visit. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or sampling delicious Yucatecan cuisine, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this dynamic city.

Merida, Mexico is a vibrant city filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and a lively cultural scene. There are so many top attractions to explore in this charming city that it can be hard to know where to start.


One of the must-see attractions in Merida is the stunning Cathedral of San Ildefonso, which dates back to the 16th century and features a beautiful blend of Spanish colonial and Mayan architectural styles. Another must-visit spot is the Paseo de Montejo, a grand boulevard lined with elegant mansions and upscale shops.


For history buffs, the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya offers a fascinating look at the ancient Mayan civilization that once thrived in this region. And for those looking for a bit of relaxation, the nearby cenotes (natural swimming holes) are perfect for cooling off on a hot day.


No visit to Merida would be complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisine. Be sure to try traditional Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and panuchos (tortillas filled with beans and topped with meat).


Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city, Merida has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to experience all that this enchanting destination has to offer!

TrustFirst Merida Real Estate: The Leading Option for Real Estate Investment in Merida, Mexico

Discover the Most Trusted Realtors in Merida, Mexico

Merida, the center of Yucatán, is quickly emerging as one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in Mexico. With its rich colonial charm, expanding infrastructure, and a rising influx of international and local buyers, the city presents lucrative real estate prospects. At TrustFirst Merida Real Estate, we take pride in being the most trusted Realtors in Merida, Mexico, providing unparalleled knowledge, comprehensive market analysis, and a personalized approach to help you find your dream home.

Why Invest in Merida Real Estate?

The property sector in Merida has seen a consistent growth in demand, with home prices appreciating by an estimated 8%-12% each year. Investors and residents alike are drawn to the city due to its affordable cost of living, excellent safety ratings, and cultural appeal. Unlike many popular cities in Mexico, Merida offers a balance between historic elegance and contemporary amenities, making it an ideal place for foreign investors, and those looking to relocate.

As expert Realtors in Merida, Mexico, we know the complexities of the local market and can assist you through every step of the buying or selling process.

What Sets TrustFirst Merida Real Estate Apart?

1. Market Expertise & Data-Driven Insights

Navigating the real estate market requires accurate, up-to-date information. At TrustFirst Merida Real Estate, we leverage market analytics, comparative price studies, and insider expertise to provide strategic investment strategies.

2. Personalized Service from Top Realtors in Merida, Mexico

Each client has unique requirements, and we tailor our approach accordingly. From identifying prime neighborhoods to managing legal paperwork, our expert real estate advisors make sure a smooth transaction.

3. Exclusive Listings & Off-Market Opportunities

Some of the most desirable homes in Merida don’t get advertised online. Through our vast network of property owners, builders, and real estate professionals, we provide VIP entry to hidden listings.

Best Neighborhoods for Real Estate Investment in Merida

1. Centro Histórico – The Heart of Colonial Merida

  • Filled with stunning colonial mansions.
  • Strong property value growth due to tourist demand.
  • Close to cultural attractions, squares, and restaurants.

2. North Merida (Altabrisa & Temozón)

  • Includes modern homes, secured residences, and luxury properties.
  • Proximity to top-rated international schools, hospitals, and shopping centers.

3. Progreso & Chicxulub – Beachfront Properties

  • Perfect for holiday getaways and rental investments.
  • Beachfront real estate values have grown by over 15% annually.

Work with the Best Realtors in Merida, Mexico

Whether you're buying, selling, or seeking opportunities in Merida real estate, TrustFirst Merida Real Estate is your trusted advisor. Our team of skilled property experts is dedicated to helping you reach your real estate ambitions.

📞 Contact us today to book a complimentary consultation and start your journey with the leading Real Estate Agents in Merida, Mexico!

The Best Neighborhoods to Buy Property in Mérida, Mexico

Reasons to Buy Property in Mérida

Mérida is widely regarded as one of Mexico’s most secure cities, making it a sought-after location for property investment.

Property values in Mérida remain reasonable relative to other urban areas in Mexico.

Prime Locations for Buying Property in Mérida

Centro Histórico – The Cultural Epicenter

Ideal for: Real estate investors

Centro Histórico is famous for its vibrant culture.

  • Strong demand for short-term rentals
  • Consistently appreciating home prices
  • Close to restaurants, museums, and cultural sites

A Booming International Community

Ideal for: Digital nomads

These neighborhoods boast a mix of renovated homes and fixer-upper options.

  • Rising property values
  • Easy access to daily conveniences
  • Frequent cultural events

Luxury Meets Convenience

Ideal for: Professionals

Montebello and Altabrisa are known for due to their contemporary residences.

  • Close to Plaza Altabrisa and major commercial areas
  • Appealing to long-term tenants
  • Well-planned neighborhoods with green spaces

Cholul & Conkal – Affordable Growth Areas

Ideal for: Long-term investors

These neighborhoods present cost-effective real estate options including new developments.

  • Budget-friendly investment opportunities
  • Upcoming infrastructure projects
  • Great for long-term growth

Making the Right Choice

**The Best Neighborhoods to Buy Property in Mérida, Mexico** feature excellent appreciation rates.

At TrustFirst Mérida Real Estate, we help buyers find the right property.

Local cuisine and dining options

When it comes to experiencing the true essence of Merida, Mexico, exploring the local cuisine is an absolute must. Known for its rich culinary traditions that blend Mayan and Spanish influences, Merida offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to every palate.


One of the most popular dishes in Merida is cochinita pibil, a traditional Yucatecan dish made with slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and sour orange juice. Another must-try is panuchos, which are fried tortillas stuffed with refried black beans and topped with shredded turkey or chicken, lettuce, avocado, pickled onions, and salsa.


For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to sample some Marquesitas - crispy crepes filled with your choice of cheese, Nutella, or other sweet fillings. And no visit to Merida would be complete without trying some refreshing aguas frescas - fruit-infused waters that come in a variety of flavors such as hibiscus, tamarind, and pineapple.


In addition to traditional dishes, Merida also boasts a vibrant food scene with numerous cafes, food markets, and restaurants offering international cuisine. Whether you're craving Italian pasta or Japanese sushi, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds in this bustling city.


So if you're planning a trip to Merida Mexico, make sure to indulge in the local cuisine and explore the diverse dining options that this charming city has to offer. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this culinary paradise.

Local cuisine and dining options
Shopping and markets in Merida

Shopping and markets in Merida

Merida, Mexico is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, historical architecture, and warm hospitality. One of the best ways to experience the authentic charm of Merida is through its bustling markets and shopping areas.


In Merida, you can find a wide range of markets offering everything from fresh produce and local handicrafts to unique souvenirs and traditional Mexican textiles. The Lucas de Galvez market is one of the largest in the city, where you can immerse yourself in a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells as you navigate through stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, meats, and even handmade hammocks.


For those looking for a more upscale shopping experience, Paseo Montejo is lined with boutique shops offering designer clothing, jewelry, and accessories. This elegant boulevard is also home to upscale restaurants and cafes where you can take a break from shopping and enjoy some delicious Yucatecan cuisine.


No visit to Merida would be complete without exploring the Mercado San Benito, a historic market that has been serving locals for over a century. Here you can browse through stalls selling traditional Mayan crafts, pottery, leather goods, and colorful textiles.


Whether you're hunting for unique treasures or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Merida's markets, shopping in this charming city is an experience not to be missed. So grab your pesos and get ready to shop 'til you drop in the colorful markets of Merida!

Outdoor activities and adventures in the area

Merida, Mexico is a vibrant city with a rich culture and history, but it also offers a plethora of outdoor activities and adventures for those who seek a bit of excitement in nature. From exploring the ancient Mayan ruins at Uxmal or Chichen Itza to swimming in the crystal-clear cenotes scattered throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, there is no shortage of opportunities to connect with the natural beauty of this region.


For those looking for a more active adventure, Merida is surrounded by lush jungles and wildlife reserves that are perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or even zip-lining through the treetops. The nearby Gulf of Mexico also provides ample opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or deep-sea fishing.


If you prefer something a bit more laid-back, you can always take a leisurely bike ride through the charming colonial streets of Merida or spend an afternoon relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches along the coast. And don't forget to indulge in some delicious local cuisine after a day of exploring – nothing beats savoring fresh seafood tacos or refreshing aguas frescas under the warm Mexican sun.


Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or simply looking to unwind in nature, Merida has something for everyone when it comes to outdoor activities and adventures. So pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure – there's no better place to experience the wonders of the great outdoors than in this beautiful city in Mexico.

Homes For Sale Merida

Outdoor activities and adventures in the area
Accommodation options in Merida
Accommodation options in Merida

Looking for accommodation options in Merida, Mexico? You're in luck! Merida offers a variety of choices to suit every traveler's needs and preferences. From charming boutique hotels in the historic city center to luxurious resorts on the outskirts, there is something for everyone.


If you're looking to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Merida, consider staying in one of the many beautifully restored colonial homes that have been converted into bed and breakfasts or small boutique hotels. These accommodations offer a unique and authentic experience, allowing you to step back in time while still enjoying modern amenities.


For those seeking a more resort-style stay, Merida also boasts several high-end hotels and resorts with all the bells and whistles. Enjoy pampering spa treatments, gourmet dining options, and stunning swimming pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens. These properties are perfect for those looking to relax and unwind in style.


No matter what your budget or preference, Merida has something for everyone when it comes to accommodation options. Whether you're looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious resort experience, you'll find it all in this vibrant city. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Merida has to offer!

Tips for traveling to Merida

Traveling to Merida, Mexico can be an exciting and enriching experience. This vibrant city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and friendly locals. To make the most of your trip to Merida, here are some tips to keep in mind.


First and foremost, it's important to pack appropriately for the warm and humid climate of Merida. Be sure to bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay comfortable while exploring the city.


When it comes to transportation, consider using public buses or taxis to get around Merida. The city is relatively easy to navigate, and these options are both affordable and convenient for getting from one place to another.


For accommodations, there are plenty of hotels and hostels in Merida to choose from. It's recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you have a comfortable place to rest after a day of sightseeing.


While in Merida, don't miss out on trying the local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious Yucatecan dishes such as cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and panuchos (tortillas filled with black beans). Be sure to also visit the bustling markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts.


Lastly, take some time to explore the many cultural attractions that Merida has to offer. From visiting historical sites like the Mayan ruins at Uxmal or Chichen Itza, to enjoying live music performances in the town square, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.


Overall, traveling to Merida is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Mexican culture and history. By following these tips and being open-minded about new experiences, you're sure to have a memorable trip in this beautiful city.

Tips for traveling to Merida

 

Real estate is property consisting of land and the buildings on it, along with its natural resources such as growing crops (e.g. timber), minerals or water, and wild animals; immovable property of this nature; an interest vested in this (also) an item of real property, (more generally) buildings or housing in general.[1][2] In terms of law, real relates to land property and is different from personal property, while estate means the "interest" a person has in that land property.[3]

Real estate is different from personal property, which is not permanently attached to the land (or comes with the land), such as vehicles, boats, jewelry, furniture, tools, and the rolling stock of a farm and farm animals.

In the United States, the transfer, owning, or acquisition of real estate can be through business corporations, individuals, nonprofit corporations, fiduciaries, or any legal entity as seen within the law of each U.S. state.[3]

History of real estate

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The natural right of a person to own property as a concept can be seen as having roots in Roman law as well as Greek philosophy.[4] The profession of appraisal can be seen as beginning in England during the 1500s, as agricultural needs required land clearing and land preparation. Textbooks on the subject of surveying began to be written and the term "surveying" was used in England, while the term "appraising" was more used in North America.[5] Natural law which can be seen as "universal law" was discussed among writers of the 15th and 16th century as it pertained to "property theory" and the inter-state relations dealing with foreign investments and the protection of citizens private property abroad. Natural law can be seen as having an influence in Emerich de Vattel's 1758 treatise The Law of Nations which conceptualized the idea of private property.[6]

One of the largest initial real estate deals in history known as the "Louisiana Purchase" happened in 1803 when the Louisiana Purchase Treaty was signed. This treaty paved the way for western expansion and made the U.S. the owners of the "Louisiana Territory" as the land was bought from France for fifteen million dollars, making each acre roughly 4 cents.[7] The oldest real estate brokerage firm was established in 1855 in Chicago, Illinois, and was initially known as "L. D. Olmsted & Co." but is now known as "Baird & Warner".[8] In 1908, the National Association of Realtors was founded in Chicago and in 1916, the name was changed to the National Association of Real Estate Boards and this was also when the term "realtor" was coined to identify real estate professionals.[9]

The stock market crash of 1929 and the Great Depression in the U.S. caused a major drop in real estate worth and prices and ultimately resulted in depreciation of 50% for the four years after 1929.[10] Housing financing in the U.S. was greatly affected by the Banking Act of 1933 and the National Housing Act in 1934 because it allowed for mortgage insurance for home buyers and this system was implemented by the Federal Deposit Insurance as well as the Federal Housing Administration.[11] In 1938, an amendment was made to the National Housing Act and Fannie Mae, a government agency, was established to serve as a secondary market for mortgages and to give lenders more money in order for new homes to be funded.[12]

Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act in the U.S., which is also known as the Fair Housing Act, was put into place in 1968 and dealt with the incorporation of African Americans into neighborhoods as the issues of discrimination were analyzed with the renting, buying, and financing of homes.[13] Internet real estate as a concept began with the first appearance of real estate platforms on the World Wide Web (www) and occurred in 1999.

Residential real estate

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Residential real estate may contain either a single family or multifamily structure that is available for occupation or for non-business purposes.[14]

Residences can be classified by and how they are connected to neighbouring residences and land. Different types of housing tenure can be used for the same physical type. For example, connected residences might be owned by a single entity and leased out, or owned separately with an agreement covering the relationship between units and common areas and concerns.[15]

According to the Congressional Research Service, in 2021, 65% of homes in the U.S. are owned by the occupier.[16]

Single-family detached house in Essex, Connecticut, United States
Townhouses in Victoria, Australia
Major categories
  • Attached / multi-unit dwellings
    • Apartment (American English) or Flat (British English) – An individual unit in a multi-unit building. The boundaries of the apartment are generally defined by a perimeter of locked or lockable doors. Often seen in multi-story apartment buildings.
    • Multi-family house – Often seen in multi-story detached buildings, where each floor is a separate apartment or unit.
    • Terraced house (a.k.a. townhouse or rowhouse) – A number of single or multi-unit buildings in a continuous row with shared walls and no intervening space.
    • Condominium (American English) – A building or complex, similar to apartments, owned by individuals. Common grounds and common areas within the complex are owned and shared jointly. In North America, there are townhouse or rowhouse style condominiums as well. The British equivalent is a block of flats.
    • Housing cooperative (a.k.a. co-op) – A type of multiple ownership in which the residents of a multi-unit housing complex own shares in the cooperative corporation that owns the property, giving each resident the right to occupy a specific apartment or unit. Majority of housing in Indian metro cities are of these types.
    • Tenement – A type of building shared by multiple dwellings, typically with flats or apartments on each floor and with shared entrance stairway access found in Britain.
  • Semi-detached dwellings
    • Duplex – Two units with one shared wall.
  • Detached dwellings
  • Portable dwellings

Other categories

The size of havelis and chawls is measured in Gaz (square yards), Quila, Marla, Beegha, and acre.

See List of house types for a complete listing of housing types and layouts, real estate trends for shifts in the market, and house or home for more general information.

Real estate and the environment

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Real estate can be valued or devalued based on the amount of environmental degradation that has occurred. Environmental degradation can cause extreme health and safety risks. There is a growing demand for the use of site assessments (ESAs) when valuing a property for both private and commercial real estate.[17]

Environmental surveying is made possible by environmental surveyors who examine the environmental factors present within the development of real estate as well as the impacts that development and real estate has on the environment.

Green development is a concept that has grown since the 1970s with the environmental movement and the World Commission on Environment and Development. Green development examines social and environmental impacts with real estate and building. There are 3 areas of focus, being the environmental responsiveness, resource efficiency, and the sensitivity of cultural and societal aspects. Examples of Green development are green infrastructure, LEED, conservation development, and sustainability developments.

Real estate in itself has been measured as a contributing factor to the rise in green house gases. According to the International Energy Agency, real estate in 2019 was responsible for 39 percent of total emissions worldwide and 11 percent of those emissions were due to the manufacturing of materials used in buildings.[18]

Development

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Real estate development involves planning and coordinating of housebuilding, real estate construction or renovation projects.[19] Real estate development can be less cyclical than real estate investing.[20]

Investment

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In markets where land and building prices are rising, real estate is often purchased as an investment, whether or not the owner intends to use the property. Often investment properties are rented out, but "flipping" involves quickly reselling a property, sometimes taking advantage of arbitrage or quickly rising value, and sometimes after repairs are made that substantially raise the value of the property. Luxury real estate is sometimes used as a way to store value, especially by wealthy foreigners, without any particular attempt to rent it out. Some luxury units in London and New York City have been used as a way for corrupt foreign government officials and business people from countries without strong rule of law to launder money or to protect it from seizure.[21] Investment in real estate can be categorized by financial risk into core, value-added, and opportunistic.[22]

Professionals

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See also

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References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Real estate": Oxford English Dictionary online: Retrieved September 18, 2011
  2. ^ James Chen (May 2, 2019). "What Is Real Estate?". investopedia.com. Archived from the original on August 18, 2000. Retrieved May 13, 2019.
  3. ^ a b Real Estate. Funk & Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia, 1. 2018.
  4. ^ Alvik, Ivar (2018). "Protection of Private Property in the Early Law of Nations". Journal of the History of International Law. 20 (2): 220. doi:10.1163/15718050-19041026. S2CID 158672172.
  5. ^ Klaasen, R. L. (1976). "Brief History of Real Estate Appraisal and Organizations". Appraisal Journal. 44 (3): 376–381.
  6. ^ Alvik, Ivar (2018). "Protection of Private Property in the Early Law of Nations". Journal of the History of International Law. 20 (2): 218–227. doi:10.1163/15718050-19041026. S2CID 158672172.
  7. ^ "Louisiana Purchase: Primary Documents in American History". Library of Congress Research Guides. Archived from the original on 2022-06-25. Retrieved 2022-05-18.
  8. ^ Richardson, Patricia (June 2, 2003). "Father-son team scores big at home; Nearly 150 years old, family-owned Baird & Warner Inc. is a dominant force in the area's residential real estate industry, and shows no signs of slowing down or selling out". Crain's Chicago Business.
  9. ^ "History of National Association of Realtors". National Association of Realtors. 13 January 2012. Archived from the original on 13 May 2022. Retrieved 18 May 2022.
  10. ^ Nicholas, T.; Scherbina, A. (2013). "Real Estate Prices During the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression". Real Estate Economics, 41. 2: 280.
  11. ^ Greer, J. L. (2014). "Historic Home Mortgage Redlining in Chicago". Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society. 107 (2): 204–233. doi:10.5406/jillistathistsoc.107.2.0204.
  12. ^ "A Brief History of the Housing Government-Sponsored Enterprises" (PDF). Federal Housing Finance Agency – OIG. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2023-03-08. Retrieved 2022-05-18.
  13. ^ Taylor, K. Y. (2018). "How Real Estate Segregated America". Dissent. 65 (4): 23–24. doi:10.1353/dss.2018.0071. S2CID 149616841.
  14. ^ "Title 16. Conservation; Chapter 1. National Parks, Military Parks, Monuments, and Seashores; Minute Man National Historical Park". US Legal. Archived from the original on 2017-07-08. Retrieved 2015-10-04.
  15. ^ Kimberley Amadeo (March 28, 2019). "Real Estate, What It Is and How It Works". thebalance.com. Archived from the original on May 13, 2019. Retrieved May 13, 2019.
  16. ^ "Introduction to U.S. Economy: Housing Market" (PDF). Congressional Research Service. Archived from the original on 2022-07-29. Retrieved 2022-05-18.cite web: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
  17. ^ Cutting, Robert H.; Calhoun, Lawrence B.; Hall, Jack C. (2012). "'Location, Location, Location' Should Be 'Environment, Environment, Environment': A Market-Based Tool to Simplify Environmental Considerations in Residential Real Estate". Golden Gate University Environmental Law Journal.
  18. ^ "Global status report for buildings and construction". International Energy Agency. 2019.
  19. ^ Frej, Anne B; Peiser, Richard B. (2003). Professional Real Estate Development: The ULI Guide to the Business (2 ed.). Urban Land Institute. p. 3. ISBN 0874208947. OCLC 778267123.
  20. ^ Geltner, David, Anil Kumar, and Alex M. Van de Minne. "Riskiness of real estate development: A perspective from urban economics and option value theory." Real Estate Economics 48.2 (2020): 406–445.
  21. ^ "Why Manhattan's Skyscrapers Are Empty". The Atlantic. 16 Jan 2020. Archived from the original on 13 April 2021. Retrieved 13 April 2021.
  22. ^ Garay, Urbi, Investment Styles, Portfolio Allocation, and Real Estate Derivatives (2016). Garay, U. “Investment Styles, Portfolio Allocation, and Real Estate Derivatives.” In Kazemi, H.; Black, K.; and D. Chambers (Editors), Alternative Investments: CAIA Level II, Chapter 16, Wiley Finance, 3rd Edition, 2016, pp. 401–421.
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Mérida Cathedral
The Mérida Cathedral
Religion
Affiliation Roman Catholic
Status Preserved
Location
Location Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
Geographic coordinates 20°58′1.64″N 89°37′21.32″W / 20.9671222°N 89.6225889°W / 20.9671222; -89.6225889
Architecture
Architect(s) Juan Miguel de Agüero
Type Cathedral
Groundbreaking 1562
Completed 1598[1]
Materials Stone
Coat of Arms
Statue of St. Paul in a niche

The Mérida Cathedral in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, is one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas.[1][2]

History

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Construction of the cathedral of Mérida began in 1561, and it was completed in 1598. It was the second cathedral to be completed in the Americas (the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, completed in 1550, was the first). It is a unique monument with clear antecedents in Andalusia. The seat of the bishopric of Yucatán, the cathedral was built on the site of Mayan ruins T'ho.[1][3][4]

The bishopric of Yucatán had an uncertain start. The Yucatán peninsula was explored by Francisco Hernandez de Córdoba and Juan de Grijalva on behalf of Diego Velazquez de Cuellar, the adelantado of Cuba, in 1517 and 1518.[5] The creation of a diocese in the recently discovered country was urged by Velazquez, who presumed to have jurisdiction over the region and hoped to colonize it. An episcopal see known as "Carolense" was indeed created by Pope Leo X in 1519 (later renamed "Our Lady of Remedies" by Clement VII). But said diocese was not implemented in the territory of Yucatán but in that of Tlaxcala instead and later on was moved to Puebla. It cannot therefore be considered the predecessor of the diocese of Yucatán.

The diocese of Yucatán proper, named "Yucatan and Cozumel," was created by Pius IV in 1561. St. Ildephonsus of Toledo was invoked as the patron.[6] Two prelates for the new see were nominated in succession by the Spanish Crown but neither could be consecrated for entirely accidental reasons. A third candidate, fray Francisco Toral, was eventually consecrated and took possession on August 14, 1562. He was the first of a long line of bishops, later archbishops, of Yucatán.

The system of vaulting used throughout the building was based on the ideas of Andres de Vandelvira, first applied to the building of the cathedral of Jaen. Indeed, there is every possibility that Vandelvira's schemes were brought to the Mérida project by the first bishop of Yucatán, fray Francisco Toral, who hailed from Ubeda, a town in the Jaen province.[7]

References to the cathedral can be found in the Books of Chilam Balam.[5][8]

Construction

[edit]

Land had been set aside for the cathedral at Mérida, the place recycled by the Spanish under Francisco de Montejo as the capital of the new colony.[6] The colonial city was set amidst the ruins of the Maya settlement of Ichcansiho (T'ho for short), and work for the church was begun shortly after Toral's arrival.[6] The church was to be built on the eastern side on the main town square, where a temporary building with a roof of palms was erected. It was not until 1562 that construction of the cathedral began. Labor for this construction came from Mayans, some of who still practiced their own religion.[2][3] Laborers used stones from the Mayan temple of Yajam Cumu to build the cathedral.[6][9] Two known Mayan workers were Francisco Pool, and Diego Can.[9] Although architect Juan Miguel de Agüero completed the cathedral, it was Don Pedro de Aulestia who led the initial construction.[9]

Coat of Arms

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The coat of arms on the cathedral facade was originally designed to reflect the Spanish royal coat of arms.[9] The original royal coat consisted of four sections containing symbols of gold castles and crowned lions. At the very top of the coat was a representation of the royal crown of Spain. After Mexico's independence, the shield was partially destroyed due to anti-Spanish sentiment. The central piece of the shield containing the castles and lions were removed using a pickaxes and chisels. In 1824, the empty shield was filled with a Mexican eagle wearing the imperial crown of Iturbide.[10][9] After the redesign of the shield, a second wave of anti-Spanish sentiment led to the entire coat of arms being buried beneath a slab on cement. The cement was later removed to reveal the coat of arms as can be seen today.

St. Peter and St. Paul

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On the cathedral facade there are statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. The statue of St. Paul is distinguished by the sword and the book he is holding. St. Peter is depicted holding the keys to the Church.[9]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c Rasmussen, Christian (October 1998). "Yucatán's church of all ages". Americas. Retrieved 2009-01-03.
  2. ^ a b Andrews, Anthony (1981). "Historical Archaeology in Yucatán: A Preliminary Framework". Historical Archaeology. 15 (1): 1–18. JSTOR 25615385.
  3. ^ a b Low, Setha (1995). "Architecture and the Spanish American Plaza in Mesoamerica and the Caribbean". American Anthropologist. 97 (4): 748–762. doi:10.1525/aa.1995.97.4.02a00160. JSTOR 682595.
  4. ^ Restall, Matthew (1997). The Maya World: Yucatec Culture and Society 1550-1850. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press. p. 2. ISBN 978-0-8047-3658-9.
  5. ^ a b Clendinnen, Inga (2003). Ambivalent Conquests. United States of America: Cambridge University Press. pp. 5. ISBN 978-0521820318.
  6. ^ a b c d Galindo Trejo, Jesús (2013). "La Traza Urbana de Ciudades Coloniales en México:¿Una Herencia Derivada del Calendario Mesoamericano?". Indiana. 30: 45–46 – via Academic Search Complete.
  7. ^ Chuchiak IV, John F. (2005). "In Servitio Dei: Fray Diego de Landa, the Franciscan Order, and the Return of theExtirpattion of Idolatry in the Calonial Diocese of Yucatán, 1573-1579". The Americas. 61 (4): 611–646. doi:10.1353/tam.2005.0063. JSTOR 4490974.
  8. ^ Edmonson, Munro S. (1986). Heaven Born Merida and its Destiny: The Book of Chilam Balam of Chumayel. Austin, Texas: University of Texas Press. pp. 128–129. ISBN 978-0292730274.
  9. ^ a b c d e f Rasmussen, Christian; Howe, Kate; Lara Castro, Pbro. Juan (2001). Cathedral of Merida. Mérida, Yucatán: Compañia Editorial de la Península, S.A de C.V. p. 11.
  10. ^ Schreffler, Michael J. (February 2017). "La Catedral de Mérida: La gran casa de Dios en medio de T'hó". Hispanic American Historical Review. 97 (1): 146–148. doi:10.1215/00182168-3727527. ISSN 0018-2168.
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Driving Directions in Mérida


Driving Directions From Luna Maya to
Driving Directions From CENTRO DE SALUD DZITYÁ to
Driving Directions From Las Adoraditas Francisco de Montejo to
Driving Directions From Alzare Residencial to
Driving Directions From Maxi Eventos to
Driving Directions From Centro Cristiano Amor y Libertad to
Driving Directions From Taller Mecánico Grease Monkey Merida Suc. Fco de Montejo to
Driving Directions From Plaza Grande to
Driving Directions From Parque de Santa Ana to
Driving Directions From Monumento a Felipe Carrillo Puerto to

Reviews for TrustFirst - Merida Real Estate


Colin Malone

(5)

While we were looking to make a purchase, we decided not to pull the trigger just yet. When ready, we will definitely be choosing TrustFirst to help us with our merida real estate investment as we were able to see how the agent that was assigned to us goes over and above, in comparison to others we contacted.

Jess

(5)

My mother does not have a google account so I am leaving this for her. You helped her buy a wonderful home in Merida. Thank you so much for your patience and expertise. We both learned a lot about the real estate market down here. It’s so different from back home.

Fito Carvajal

(5)

Very good service. They always answered me quickly. They showed us many houses before we decided.

Fernando Puerto

(5)

We have referred several clients to Trustfirst and have not received any complaints. 👍🏼thank you very much kybor

Dustyn Kerr

(5)

Punctual, good communication. I couldn't have asked for more. Thank you for the wonderful experience, guys.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is common to find historic colonial-style homes for sale in Merida, Mexico due to its rich architectural heritage.