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Merida Cathedral, Merida

4.5

#1 of 13 in Historic Sites in Merida

Religious Site Historic Site Must See

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Completed in 1598, Merida Cathedral is one of the oldest in the Americas. Built on the site of a former Mayan temple, using some of the old stones from the ruins, the solemn building features an austere interior, most of its decorations destroyed in the Mexican Revolution. Inside, you can view a tall birchwood crucifix and a painting of Tutul Xiu, an indigenous chief who converted to Christianity and whose descendants still inhabit the area. Discover how to plan a Merida trip in just a few steps with Inspirock's itinerary builder.

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Merida Cathedral Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

2,001 reviews

Google

4.7

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4.7

7 likes

• By dvasconcellos

  Right in the main plaza, you'll find this beautiful cathedral, which is claimed to be the 1st built in the Americas. Magnificent inside. I walked in when there was a mass happening - a great...  more »

• By AlliecatOOB

  We absorbed a few minutes of Mass here on Sunday in this oldest cathedral (1561) on the North American mainland. It's truly awesome in size and spirit.  more »

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Google

• By Douglas Stuart

  This church sits in front of one of the main squares of Merida, the site of all kinds of social events. While I was here I saw a game of pok-ta-pok, which is like ancient Mayan basketball. Only the ball is on fire. Pretty fun stuff.

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• By Max Altenaichinger

  Amazing architecture and atmosphere, very humble interior If you compare it to the cathedrals in Europe

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