When the Spaniards conquered Izamal, they destroyed the major Maya temple, the Ppapp-Hol-Chac pyramid, and in 1533 began to build from its stones one of…
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Izamal
In ancient times Izamal was a center for the worship of the supreme Maya god, Itzamná, and the sun god, Kinich-Kakmó. A dozen temple pyramids were devoted to these or other gods. No doubt these bold expressions of Maya religiosity are why the Spanish colonists chose Izamal as the site for an enormous and impressive Franciscan monastery, which still stands at the heart of this town, about 70km east of Mérida.
The Izamal of today is a quiet provincial town, nicknamed La Ciudad Amarilla (the Yellow City) for the traditional golden-yellow buildings that spiral out from the center like a budding daisy. It’s easily explored on foot, and spiffy horse-drawn carriages add to the city’s charm.
Explore Izamal
- Convento de San Antonio de Padua
When the Spaniards conquered Izamal, they destroyed the major Maya temple, the Ppapp-Hol-Chac pyramid, and in 1533 began to build from its stones one of…
- Kinich-Kakmó
Though not worth detouring wildly for, if you're here already, three of the town’s original 12 Maya pyramids have been partially restored. The largest …
- CCentro Cultural y Artesanal
Just across the square from the monastery, this cultural center and museum showcases popular art from around Mexico. Explanatory cards in English give an…
Top attractions
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Izamal.
See
Convento de San Antonio de Padua
When the Spaniards conquered Izamal, they destroyed the major Maya temple, the Ppapp-Hol-Chac pyramid, and in 1533 began to build from its stones one of…
See
Kinich-Kakmó
Though not worth detouring wildly for, if you're here already, three of the town’s original 12 Maya pyramids have been partially restored. The largest …
See
Centro Cultural y Artesanal
Just across the square from the monastery, this cultural center and museum showcases popular art from around Mexico. Explanatory cards in English give an…
Guidebooks
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