Can you believe it? Experience the collision of Mayan civilization and colonial style in Merida, Mexico

The largest city on the Yucatán Peninsula in southeastern Mexico and the capital of Yucatán state. It was built in 1542 on the site of the ancient Mayan city of Tio. Because the local limestone buildings are quite close to the Roman style, Tio was named after the Spanish city of Merida, which is known as the "Little Rome". The city uses a large number of limestone and white paint in the buildings, so Merida is also called the "White City". Merida is the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán. It is located in the northwest of the state, approximately 35 kilometers from the Gulf of Mexico. In 2003, the city's population was approximately 793,000, ranking 11th in Mexico. Merida is also the cultural and financial capital of the Yucatan Peninsula. The city's rich cultural heritage is a fusion of Mayan and Spanish cultures during the colonial era. Built in the late 16th century using stones from nearby Mayan ruins, the Cathedral of Merida in Yucatán is the oldest cathedral in the Americas (the first was in Santo Domingo). Merida is also one of the safest cities in Mexico and America. 🌟 Must-visit attractions 1. Mayan civilization pilgrimage Uxmal Pyramids: The "most beautiful Mayan ruins" surrounded by rainforests, the magic pyramid has an elliptical shape that is super mysterious, and few people are photographed. Chichen Itza (optional): classic but crowded. If time is limited, you can prioritize Uxmal. 2. Colonial-style City Walk Montejo Avenue: European-style mansions + cafes, take Instagram-style photos. Merida Cathedral: The oldest church in the Americas, built with Mayan stone, it has an amazing sense of vicissitudes. Murals in the Governor's Palace: See the shocking art that predicts the Mayan prophecy that "the world was born from corn." 3. Surrounding niche experiences Progreso Beach: Pink salt lake + flamingos at sunset (best from December to February). Cenotes: Hacienda Mucuyche double cave diving, cool and magical. Sisal Manor Yaxcopoil: Travel back to the 19th century to shoot retro manor blockbusters. 🍲Food recommendations 1. Yucatan specialty: Cochinita Pibil: Slow-roasted pork in banana leaves with annatto sauce, sour, sweet and spicy! . Sopa de Lima: sour and appetizing, a favorite among locals. Panuchos: Black bean tortillas stuffed with chicken, all you can eat for 5 pesos at a street stall. 2. Restaurant Recommendation: Apoala Creative Restaurant: Top 1 in Merida, traditional dishes + modern presentation, 200 pesos per person. Los Trompos: Authentic Mexican barbecue by the square, and the band performance is very atmospheric. 📝Note tips: 1. Sun protection! Sun protection! : 40°C high temperature + exposure to the sun, the three-piece set of Anessa + sun hat + sunglasses will save your life. 2. Safety: Merida is the safest city in Mexico, but avoid walking alone in the alleys of the old city late at night. 3. Best season: December to March (cool in the dry season, avoid the muddy rainy season). 4. Cultural respect: Smile and signal when taking photos of locals, and do not climb Mayan ruins. 📸 The beauty of Merida is the whisper of history beneath the mottled walls and the tongue-tip carnival of the collision of peppers and corn. Take this guide with you and experience the tenderness and mystery of the White City! ✨ *Follow me to unlock more niche travel destinations!