Mérida was founded on January 6th, 1542 and is the capital of the State of Yucatan. It has approximately 1 million inhabitants counting the metropolitan area. It is a city that has, like few others, the privilege of combining unstoppable modernity with a rich cultural and historical past. It was the First American Capital of Culture and its main wealth, undoubtedly, is in its history and its Mayan culture. For several years it has been named the safest city in Mexico and Yucatan the safest state in the country.
The official languages are Spanish and Mayan language. Mérida is considered a medium city and has the advantages attributed to a city of this size in its movement and activity. However, it is still considered a quiet, traditional and relaxed town that is characterized by the kindness of its people. Merida is undoubtedly a place full of flavor and tradition. Its gastronomy is unique in Mexico and in the world and has served as inspiration for many currents of modern cuisine.
Location
Mérida is the capital of the State of Yucatán. It limits with 2 states, in the east with Quintana Roo and in the west with Campeche. The 3 states are what we know as "Yucatan Peninsula". The state of Yucatan has the Gulf of Mexico to the north and its nearest port is Puerto Progreso, the most important commercial and fishing center of the Peninsula.
Weather
The climate in the Yucatan Peninsula is considered tropical. The temperatures vary a little but in general during the summer it rises to 35-40C. During the winter the temperatures go down and we can have days of up to 20C or less. Being a tropical region, humidity is an important issue. The percentage of humidity can vary but in general it is approximately 70-90%. The winter in Yucatan is very attractive for visitors as the temperature drops considerably for locals but for foreigners it is perfect, the weather is still sunny and pleasant.
Cultural life
Mérida celebrates an intense cultural life almost all year round and the people who visit us participate in the daily local activity. Every night, the historic center of the city hosts a cultural event; for example, every Monday at 9pm, in front of the City Hall building, the traditional Yucatan Vaquería dance: La Jarana. Every Sunday, downtown Mérida opens its streets to pedestrians inviting them to enjoy their musical and scenic activities near the Plaza Grande, as well as regional snacks, recognized nationally and internationally. For more information, you can access the website of the Secretariat of Culture of Yucatan (www.culturayucatan.com) or the Directorate of Culture of the City of Merida (www.merida.gob.mx/capitalcultural/).
Mayan culture
We are proud to be home to one of the most numerous indigenous populations in North America: The Mayans, who besides being one of the pillars of our current society, enrich us with their traditions and their language. Our indigenous past mixed with Spanish influence, have resulted in a unique culture.