It would be impossible to count the number of beautiful and luxurious buildings that adorn the streets of the city of Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán. The golden years, as well as the darkest moments in the history of this country, come to life in cultural spaces that have become priceless relics. Those who visit this sensational city agree that walking its streets is like traveling through time. Is it true?
There are hundreds of options offered by the capital of Yucatán; however, a truly unmissable place that combines colonial history with indigenous heritage is the Palacio Cantón. Yes, the one located right on Paseo Montejo, that immense house that, among other things, was the former residence of the Governor Francisco Cantón Rosado.
Today, this house of Porfirian style, featuring beloved baroque details, has been celebrated since 1966 as the Regional Museum of Anthropology.
Upon arriving at the site, you can’t help but gasp, as this palace is truly a relic of the Beaux-Arts style that dominated Europe during the Belle Époque. The dimensions of the house are staggering, but what’s more, it is abundant in details: multicolored marble, plaster motifs, delicate ceiling finishes, Doric and Ionic columns, a white marble staircase, and perfectly maintained gardens.
The Museum of Anthropology, housed in the palace, will take you on a journey to discover Mayan life like no other place can. You’ll learn about their socio-political organization, their beliefs about life and death, how they advanced in architectural knowledge to construct the immense temples that are now hidden in the Mexican jungle, their sacred rituals, their trade relationships, and, of course, their remarkable art, such as their typical jade sculptures that were recovered from the cenote at Chichen Itza.
The exhibit on display at the Palacio Cantón also includes some colonial elements, but it is primarily pre-Hispanic. Among the former, highlights include some coins, weapons, clothing, household items, and currency.
If you’re a lover of anthropology and history, you can’t miss this experience; and if you’re not, you’ll still find it fascinating!
Want to know more? If so, you can participate in one of the workshops and cultural events held at the museum. Many of them are free. The topics? They’re very diverse, but a few examples include: Puuc Code, architecture and urbanism (the mystery revealed), Intro to Engraving Workshop, Altar Exhibition: Hanal Pixán and burial retreats in the western region of Mexico, and various creative workshops for children.
Additionally, the Regional Museum of Anthropology hosts unmissable concerts, such as those performed by the Mérida Chamber Orchestra. The doors of this cultural space, overflowing with history, are open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Immerse yourself in the Mexican history of Mérida, enjoy a unique getaway, and travel through time!
Portuguese Versión: Palácio Cantón: um museu, rodeado de majestade e relíquias maias
