Arch Bridge

Located in the picturesque Parque de la Mejorada, the historic Stone Bridge (known to locals as Puente Arco) is one of the most authentic symbols of colonial architecture. This elegant arched structure, built from local light limestone, is situated in the heart of Mérida. It is the use of this specific stone that gave the capital of the Yucatan state its famous nickname — the "White City."

This structure is not just a functional landscape element, but a true link between the past and the present. It is believed that stones from the ruins of the ancient Mayan settlement of T'ho were used in its construction, the site where Mexico began to take its modern form under the influence of Spanish traditions in the 16th century. Today, the bridge is harmoniously integrated into the atmosphere of a quiet oasis, surrounded by lush greenery and the strict grid of old streets.

Holding a high rating among travelers, this place attracts visitors with its intimacy and historical depth. The bridge serves as a magnificent backdrop for photographs and is an important part of the region's cultural heritage, reflecting the aesthetics and tranquility of old Mérida.

No advance booking is required to visit this attraction, as it is located within a public park. Below are the current contact details for navigation.

A visit to this location sets a contemplative mood. Here, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along the park's well-kept paths while admiring the perfect proportions of the arched bridge. This spot is considered one of the best photo zones in the city center: the combination of colonial stone and lush tropical greenery allows for truly artistic shots.

For many tourists and locals, the park has become a favorite space for relaxation. It is pleasant to settle on a bench with a book or have a small picnic in the shade of the trees to escape the midday heat. In the evening, the atmosphere changes: you can watch locals who come here for yoga sessions or spontaneous dances, giving the place a special, vibrant energy.

A visit to the bridge is easily combined with exploring the surroundings. Magnificent mansions are located just steps from the park, and neighboring cafes serve traditional Yucatan delicacies such as tamales or salbutes. We especially recommend coming here at sunset — this is when the lighting comes on, highlighting the texture of the ancient stone and creating a romantic, almost fairy-tale atmosphere.

The attraction is located in the heart of the city, in Parque de la Mejorada. If you are staying in the historic district, a walk from the main square (Plaza Grande) along Calle 60 or Calle 50 will take no more than 10–15 minutes. This is a great way to feel the rhythm of the "White City" and admire the colonial facades of neighboring buildings.

For those traveling from further districts or from Mérida International Airport (MID), the best options are taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber and Didi. The trip from the airport takes about 20–30 minutes. You can also use public transport: RUTA buses traveling along Calle 50 stop right by the park. The fare for local minibuses (colectivos) is only 10–20 MXN.

If you are traveling by rental car, keep in mind that many streets in central Mérida are one-way. Both free street parking and paid parking lots (costing around 20 MXN per hour) can be found near the park. However, due to potential traffic, exploring the center on foot is often more convenient.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the founding of the city on January 6, 1542. Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo the Younger established Mérida on the ruins of the ancient Mayan settlement of T'ho. The Stone Bridge in Parque de la Mejorada became a prime example of colonial urban planning: it is believed that the stones for its construction were taken from destroyed Mayan pyramids and temples, making the structure a silent witness to the clash and fusion of two great civilizations.

In the 16th century, Mérida was designed as a fortress city, and architectural elements such as arched bridges emphasized the European style and status of the settlement. The bridge is made of local limestone, which has defined the city's appearance for centuries. It is thanks to this material and the light-colored building facades that the region earned its famous nickname — the "White City."

The park and bridge played a special role at the turn of the 20th century, during Yucatan's era of economic prosperity. Thanks to the production of henequen (agave fiber), known as "green gold," Mérida became one of the wealthiest cities in the world. During this period, public spaces like Parque de la Mejorada became centers of social life for the local elite, preserving an atmosphere of refinement and historical grandeur to this day.

Usually, to leisurely inspect the Stone Bridge and walk through the adjacent park, visitors need 30 to 60 minutes. This is plenty of time to take beautiful photos, appreciate the craftsmanship of colonial architects, and rest for a while in the shade of the trees.

If you plan to combine your visit with a stroll through other iconic spots in the historic center or stop by a nearby cafe to try traditional cuisine, you should budget about 1–2 hours for your itinerary. The park is perfect for a short break between visiting the city's main museums and cathedrals.

Since the Stone Bridge is located within the public Parque de la Mejorada, access to it is open 24/7. You can visit this place at any convenient time, whether it's an early morning walk or a late evening stroll.

The site is available for viewing daily, from Monday to Sunday. Nevertheless, before visiting, it is recommended to check for information about possible cultural events or festivals in the park on the city's official tourism portals, as access may be partially restricted during such holidays.

Exploring the surroundings of the Stone Bridge will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Yucatan and vary your leisure activities. Cozy green zones and modern entertainment centers are within walking distance or a short drive away.

Below is a list of interesting sites located nearby: