Located in the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mérida is a vibrant city that has become a popular destination for travelers seeking to discover the rich culture and history of Mexico. One of the most iconic landmarks in Mérida is Casa Montejo, a 16th-century Spanish colonial mansion that was once the home of the Montejo family. Today, Casa Montejo is a museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the life and times of the Montejo family. Here are ten things to do in Casa Montejo, Mérida, Mexico.
1. Explore the Museum: Casa Montejo was opened as a museum in 1972, and today it houses a number of permanent and temporary exhibitions. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of colonial-era artifacts, including furniture, paintings, and sculptures. The museum also features an array of interactive displays, giving visitors the chance to learn more about the history of the Montejo family and the city of Mérida.
2. Take a Tour: Casa Montejo offers a variety of guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions in greater detail. The guided tours are available in both English and Spanish, and they provide visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of Mérida.
3. Visit the Chapel: Casa Montejo is home to a beautiful chapel, which was built in the 17th century. The chapel features a stunning stained-glass window, as well as several other religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the chapel and learn more about its history and significance.
4. Enjoy the Garden: Casa Montejo is surrounded by a beautiful garden that is filled with lush vegetation and colorful flowers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, admiring the various plants and trees.
5. Take a Cooking Class: Casa Montejo offers a unique cooking class, where visitors can learn how to make traditional Yucatecan dishes. The cooking class is taught by a local chef, and it provides a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about the local cuisine.
6. Attend a Concert: Casa Montejo hosts a variety of musical performances throughout the year, including classical music, jazz, and folk music. The concerts are held in the courtyard of the museum, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy music in a beautiful setting.
7. Shop at the Souvenir Shop: Casa Montejo has a small souvenir shop, where visitors can purchase a variety of items, such as books, postcards, and other souvenirs.
8. Take a Photo: Casa Montejo is a popular destination for photographers, as the museum offers a variety of stunning backdrops for photographs. Visitors can take photos of the building, the garden, and the chapel, capturing the beauty of Casa Montejo.
9. Enjoy a Meal: Casa Montejo has a café, which serves a variety of traditional Yucatecan dishes, as well as other Mexican dishes. The café is a great place to enjoy a meal after exploring the museum.
10. Take a Guided Tour of the City: Casa Montejo offers a variety of guided tours of the city, allowing visitors to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. The tours are offered in both English and Spanish, and they provide visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
Casa Montejo is a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the history and culture of Mérida. Whether visitors are looking to explore the museum, take a cooking class, or simply enjoy a meal in the café, Casa Montejo is sure to provide a memorable experience.