Paseo de Montejo. "Xíimbal Nachi Cocom"

Imagine an elegant European boulevard transported under the hot Yucatan sun—that is Paseo de Montejo. Located in the heart of Mérida, this majestic avenue is the main historical artery of the state capital. Named after the city's founder, the boulevard stretches for almost two kilometers, showcasing luxurious French Neo-Renaissance and Belle Époque mansions built during the "henequen boom."

This landmark is a true open-air museum, reflecting the golden age that Mexico experienced at the end of the 19th century. Strolling along its shaded walkways, you will see magnificent villas, many of which have been converted into cultural centers and museums. Special attention should be paid to the Xíimbal Nachi Cocom installation dedicated to Mayan legends, which highlights the connection between the colonial past and the ancient traditions of this land.

Thanks to its cleanliness, elegance, and abundance of greenery, Paseo de Montejo is considered one of the most beautiful avenues in the country. It is the perfect place for those who want to feel the atmosphere of the "White City" while admiring the exquisite plasterwork, slender palms, and historical monuments, such as the monument to the Montejo conquistadors.

For your convenience, the official address of the attraction is provided below. If you need additional information, we recommend checking with the city's tourist centers.

The main pleasure of visiting Paseo de Montejo is a leisurely promenade. You can examine the mythological figures on the facades, photograph the monumental statues, and explore the modern Xíimbal Nachi Cocom installation. Many mansions are open to the public: be sure to peek inside to see the interiors from the region's era of prosperity.

For active tourists, renting a bike is a great option. A bike ride under the shade of the trees allows you to see the entire boulevard more quickly and comfortably. Be sure to stop at one of the sidewalk cafes along the way. This is a great chance to try authentic Yucatecan cuisine, such as the famous cochinita pibil (marinated pork) or the hearty queso relleno (stuffed cheese).

In the evening, the boulevard is transformed: street musicians often perform here, food trucks serve refreshing tropical juices, and the soft light of the lanterns creates the perfect setting for a romantic walk. If you're lucky, you might catch one of the seasonal festivals, like the henequen festival, which features vibrant shows and cultural events.

Getting to this iconic spot is easy. Paseo de Montejo is located in the heart of the historical center, just a 10–15 minute walk from the main square, Plaza Grande. If you are arriving from Mérida International Airport (MID), a taxi ride takes about 20–30 minutes and costs between 300 and 500 pesos.

For those who prefer public transport, R1 or R2 buses run regularly along the boulevard. Stops are located every 10 minutes, and the fare is only about 10 pesos. The Muvi bike-sharing system is also popular, allowing you to explore the avenue on two wheels.

If you want to add a touch of romance to your trip, use the services of local horse-drawn carriage drivers—calesas. A ride from the center to the boulevard costs about 100–200 pesos and offers an unforgettable way to view the "White City" architecture at a leisurely pace.

The history of Paseo de Montejo is inextricably linked to the period of colossal wealth in the region. The avenue was conceived back in the 18th century, but it acquired its current appearance at the turn of the 20th century, during the boom of henequen production—the so-called "green gold" of Yucatan. The local elite, seeking to emphasize their status, built magnificent mansions here, modeling them after Parisian avenues and the Belle Époque style.

Interestingly, many of the buildings and the boulevard itself were constructed using stones left from the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of T'ho, where Francisco de Montejo founded modern Mérida in 1542. Thus, the stones of ancient pyramids are literally embedded into the walls of European-style palazzos.

A symbol of cultural unity on the boulevard is the modern Xíimbal Nachi Cocom installation. It is dedicated to Nachi Cocom, the Mayan chieftain who once ruled in T'ho. This artwork reminds residents and visitors alike that Mérida's modern culture is a harmonious synthesis of ancient indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial heritage.

To enjoy the beauty of Paseo de Montejo at a leisurely pace, it usually takes between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to take a walk, examine the architectural details of the mansion facades, and take commemorative photos at the main monuments.

If you plan to visit one of the museums located in the historical buildings or want to have lunch at a cozy cafe overlooking the avenue, you should set aside 3–4 hours. The evening is ideal for a longer stay, as the heat subsides and the beautiful city illumination comes on.

Since Paseo de Montejo is a public boulevard, it is accessible 24/7. You can come here early in the morning for a jog or late at night for a pleasant walk.

However, keep in mind that museums, galleries, and cafes located in the mansions along the avenue have their own schedules—they are usually open from 09:00 to 18:00 or 20:00. We recommend checking the official websites for up-to-date information before visiting specific cultural sites.

Exploring the surroundings of Mérida's main boulevard will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and find interesting locations for relaxing with family or friends. Numerous parks and entertainment centers are located nearby, perfectly complementing your cultural program.