Archaeological Sites

About 80 km south of the city, along Highway 261 lies a group of archaeological sites known as the Puuc zone, the most important of which is Uxmal. Before you rush off, however, we suggest you visit the Museum of Anthropology, set in a mansion on Paseo Montejo, where you will find interesting information that will make your trip more rewarding.

Labná

Labná was another religious center and the residence of priests, military leaders, and noblemen. It is located 109 km from Merida and the arch formed by two chambers is particularly interesting; also outstanding are the Palacio and El Mirador buildings and their beautiful decorations.

Puuc Zone

Just beyond Uxamal stand Kabah, Sayil and Labná. These sites, dating from the Terminal Classic between 750 and 1000 AD, have facades adorned with fine stone mosaic and enormous masks with hooked noses usually identified with Chaac, the rain god.

Uxmal

This archeological site used to be a Mayan ceremonial center, and is located only 70 km from Merida. What makes this site notable is the parallel piped shape of the buildings, of which the most outstanding are the Pirámide del Adivino (The Soothsayer’s Pyramid), "El Cuadrángulo de las Monjas (The Nun’s Quadrangle) and the Palacio del Gobernador (Government Palace).