Mérida, the capital of Yucatán, is recognized for its cultural and architectural wealth. However, beneath its surface, the city is home to a lesser-known natural treasure: the cenotes. These geological formations, essential in the Mayan worldview, are found both in urban areas and on the outskirts of the city.
Over the years, urban expansion has led to the discovery of several cenotes in Mérida. One of the most notable discoveries occurred during the construction of the Costco store in the Revolución neighborhood, where the Ka’ Kutzal cenote was found, which in Mayan means “returned to life” or “reborn.” Although it is not accessible to the public for swimming, it can be observed from the surface, offering a window into the region’s underground wealth.
Another example is the cenote located in the courtyard of the Instituto Comercial Bancario (a well-known accounting school), known as Tívoli. Although its access is limited and swimming is not allowed in it, its presence in the heart of the city highlights the coexistence between urban development and these ancient bodies of water.
Furthermore, during the construction of the International Congress Center (CIC), a cenote was discovered inside. This discovery has been integrated into the design of the building, becoming a natural attraction for attendees at events and conferences, and positioning the CIC as a unique reference worldwide.
Research carried out by caving groups, such as Ajau and Grosjean Expeditions, has identified around 150 cenotes and caves in Mérida. However, many of these have been absorbed or modified by urban expansion, which highlights the importance of their conservation and study.
In the García Ginerés neighborhood, you will find Villa María, a historic house that houses a cenote inside. Located on 27th Street, between 20th and 22nd, this residence is property of the Missionaries of Mary Immaculate. Although the cenote is not open to the public, it is possible that, with prior authorization, visits may be permitted. The cenote has stairs, handrails, and a neoclassical-style porch, as well as an image of the Virgin Mary, which gives it a unique and spiritual atmosphere.
Another cenote of interest is the one that was located in the old restaurant and nightclub “Los Tulipanes”, located on 42nd and 43rd streets in the Industrial neighborhood. In the 1970s, this place offered its visitors shows that included dance performances with pre-Hispanic themes in the cenote, which made it a unique tourist attraction of the time. Although the establishment is no longer in operation, the cenote remains as a witness to that fusion between entertainment and natural heritage.
The coexistence of these cenotes with the urban life of Mérida highlights the need to balance development with the conservation of natural heritage. These underground bodies of water not only bear witness to the geological and cultural history of the region but also represent opportunities for sustainable tourism and environmental education. It is essential that the community and authorities work together to protect and value these hidden treasures, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
By Roberto García Hidalgo for The Yucatan Times.
TYT Newsroom
The post Underground treasures in Mérida, the cenotes within the urban area first appeared on The Yucatan Times.