Parque IV Centenario

IV Centenario Park is a charming green oasis located in the heart of the historic district of Campeche. In sunny Mexico, places like this serve not only as architectural embellishments but also as essential spaces for relaxation for locals and travelers alike.

The park features an elegant circular layout with a decorative ornamental monument at its center. Well-kept lawns and shaded paths make it a true sanctuary of silence amidst colonial streets. Formerly a firing range for a now-destroyed fort, it now exudes an atmosphere of harmony and peace.

For tourists, this spot is notable for its aesthetics and the chance to experience the city's authentic pace. It’s the perfect place to pause your sightseeing route and enjoy the cool shade surrounded by historic buildings.

To clarify information about current events or visiting details, you can use the contact information listed below. Although the park does not have an official website, it is easily found in the very center of the city by recognizable landmarks.

Visiting the park offers guests a chance to enjoy a classic Mexican leisure experience. It’s pleasant to stroll along the well-kept paths, sit on the comfortable benches, and simply observe the daily life of the city residents surrounded by tropical plants and fresh air.

A special charm of the park is its proximity to the Portales de San Martín. This is a typical regional spot where numerous restaurants open in the evenings. Here, you can sample traditional delicacies from the state of Campeche, such as fresh seafood and unique regional snacks, while enjoying views of the illuminated park.

For photography enthusiasts, the park provides an excellent backdrop: the central monument and neat alleys look very photogenic both in daylight and under the evening lights. It’s a wonderful place for a leisurely end to the day in the historic center.

The attraction is located in the historic center (Zona Centro) at C. 49. Thanks to its prime location, the park is very easy to reach on foot from almost any hotel located within the old city walls.

If you are staying in more distant areas, it is most convenient to use a local taxi—the ride to the central part of the city takes very little time. Since the park is just a couple of minutes' walk from the main city walls, it is often included in walking tour routes around Campeche.

The history of this site began in 1940. The park was established on the initiative of the then-mayor, Eduardo J. Lavalle Urbina. Its construction coincided with a landmark date—the 400th anniversary of the founding of the city of San Francisco de Campeche, which is reflected in its official name, "IV Centenario."

Interestingly, before the park's creation, this territory was known as "Campo de Guadalupe." In colonial times, it was used as a firing range for the garrison of Fort San José, which was later destroyed. Thus, a once military zone was transformed into a peaceful symbol of urban development.

The grand opening took place on October 4, 1940, with the participation of State Governor Dr. Héctor Pérez Martínez. Curiously, due to a limited budget of 10,000 pesos, the monument dedicated to the city's anniversary was only installed the following year, coinciding with the completion of paving on the surrounding streets and improvements to city lighting.

For a simple visit to IV Centenario Park and a short stroll along its paths, 30–60 minutes is usually sufficient. This is plenty of time to appreciate the architecture of the central monument and take a few memorable photos surrounded by greenery.

However, many tourists prefer to stay longer, especially in the evening. If you plan to dine at the nearby restaurants or simply want to enjoy the cool breeze and watch local life, it’s worth setting aside about 2 hours for a visit to this area.

IV Centenario Park is an open public space and is accessible to visitors 24 hours a day. This allows tourists to drop by at any convenient time, whether for an early morning walk or a late-night promenade.

The park is open 24 hours a day, from Monday to Sunday, making it one of the most accessible leisure spots in the historic city center.

Its location in the historic core makes this park an excellent starting point for exploring the city. Exploring the surroundings can significantly enrich your experience, as key historic sites and leisure spots are within walking distance.