The White City
The exact origin of this nickname for the cultural center of the Yucatan peninsula isn't exactly clear. Some explanations are the traditional white coloring of the colonial buildings and how the residents keep the city particularly clean. Named after the Spanish town of the same name, the region was isolated geographically from the rest of Mexico, allowing the culture of Merida to be unique.

Culture
The Spanish Conquistadors tried to destroy the Mayan culture but it was more resilient than they had anticipated. Their attempts to stamp out Mayan culture beliefs and religion were only partially successful. It is because of this that the culture of Merida is rich with Mayan influence. This is apparent in everyday dress, speech and history.

The mix of culture is apparent during holidays and celebrations throughout the year. On no other holiday is this more apparent than Hanal Pixon. This holiday is a Catholic/Mayan mix of the celebration of the Day of the Dead. The Day of the Dead is celebrated on the first two days of November. It is commemorated with elaborate alters to deceased loved ones decorated with crucifixes, skulls, and other decorations.

The culture of Merida is mixed with ancient colonial buildings and Mayan influence, as well as modern culture. Music and dancing are a major part of everyday life in Merida. Every day of the week a series of cultural and recreational activities are presented that is designed to publicize, rescue and preserve customs and traditions. There are influences from Spanish and Cuban cultures in the music, but the traditional music still prevails. As a plus, all of the nightly concerts held at the downtown plazas are free.

On Sunday mornings the city police orchestra plays typical Yucatan music in the Santa Lucia Park, and other musical groups play a variety of music in front of the Governmental Palace. Saturday nights are full of Salsa music and because of the closed down town area, restaurants move tables into the streets. Also on Sundays, the streets leading to the Plaza De la Independencia are closed down and street vendors come out to sell goods and foods.

A Good Mix
The Culture of Merida is a unique culture, ripe with tradition and modern influences. There are malls, restaurants, hotels, bed and breakfast accommodations, the opera, concert halls, movie theaters and much more. With such a unique culture involving history, music, and food there is much to see, eat, listen to and do in this beautiful city of Merida. Regardless if you are here for business or pleasure, this safe, vibrant, cultural city is ready to make foreigners feel right at home.