Hacienda Xcanatún
Merida, Mexico
Hacienda Xcanatún
Calle 20 S/N, por 19 y 19A, Comisaria Xcanatún, Merida, Mexico, 97302 Original Property Opened in 1789 Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2015Hacienda Xcanatún first made its debut in the 1700s as a country estate. The structure specifically specialized in breeding horses and mules for agricultural tasks, such as pulling farming equipment. Over time though, the owners of the hacienda gradually began producing fibers instead. They transported these new products by train to the nearby Port of Progreso for export. But the estate had fallen into a state of disrepair by the 20th century. Fortunately, the building received a new lease on life when hoteliers renovated the site into a wonderful boutique hotel during the late 1980s. The hotel’s gardens were even reestablished, with palm trees, fruit trees, and other species of flora soon planted throughout the grounds. Hacienda Xcanatún has welcomed a variety of distinguished guests ever since, each of whom have been drawn by the inherent beauty of the greater Yucatán. These travelers have enjoyed the endless beaches surrounding them at Progreso, and delighted at the exhibits present within the Museum of Mayan Culture. The major city of Mérida is only 20 minutes away, as are a large variety of sparkling beaches. Guests are also mere moments away from the city’s convention center, while the Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport is just 15 miles down the road.
Discover
- Discover the great historic character of the Hacienda Xcanatún. This magnificent holiday destination has hosted many illustrious guests over the years, including international dignitaries and famous celebrities.
- Admire the Eclectic-style architecture of this terrific historic hotel. Hacienda Xcanatún was originally established as a self-contained colonial estate known as a “hacienda” during the 18th century.
- Travel to the remarkable Dzibilchaltún just moments away. Dzibilchaltún is a fascinating Mayan archeological site that features many well-preserved structures that date back thousands of years.
Explore
- Explore the Plaza Grande in downtown Mérida. Also known as the Plaza Mayor and the Plaza de la Independencia, this amazing destination is set within the heart of the historic city center. Many other cultural attractions are just a short walk away, including the Palacio de Gobierno and the Museo Fernando García Ponce-Macay.
- Visit the Catedral de San Ildefonso (Cathedral of Mérida). Located mere steps from the Plaza Grande, this stunning building is among the city’s most recognizable landmarks. It is one of the most historic churches in North America, having been constructed during the late 16th century.
- Travel to the Reserva de la Biósfera Ría Celestún nearby. A designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this majestic wildlife reservation is home to many unique species of animals, including an incredibly large flamingo colony.
Experience
- Experience the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum of Mérida). This world-renowned cultural institution commemorates the rich culture of the Maya through its extensive collection of ancient artifacts.
- Tour the Palacio Cantón. This beautiful Porfirian-style building was originally constructed during the early 20th century for the prominent Cantón Rosado family. It is home to the Museo Regional de Antropología Yucatán, which also covers the history of the Mayan civilization.
- Interact with the exhibitions inside the Museo de la Ciudad de Mérida. The museum is focused on telling the great story of Mérida’s past from pre-Columbian times to the present. Few places are better in the whole city to learn of its impressive history.
Taste
- Start the day off with some huevos motuleños. Beloved across the region, this delightful breakfast dish is comprised of a fried tortilla that is topped with fried eggs, refried black beans, and a local tomato-based sauce. Local chefs will occasionally add ham, peas, and plantains, as well as a sprinkling of cheese.
- Taste a salbute or panucho when out exploring Mérida. Salbutes are deep-fried, puffy corn tortillas that are filled with a delectable assortment of meat, onion, and salsa. Panuchos on the other hand are very similar to salbutes, except that their crust is stuffed with refried black beans before it is cooked.
- Delight in some pibil. This amazing meal is made by wrapping rich marinated beef in banana leaves, and then barbequing it over an open fire. An especially popular variant is the “cochinita pibil,” which involves using the meat from an entire suckling pig.
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