Izamal, which is also known as the City of Three Cultures, and is located approximately 1 hour from Merida, the state capital. The city manages to blend modern life with the cultural legacy of the Yucatan people and it is undoubtedly one of the little paradises in this diverse region, which is why we will share 5 things to do when visiting this beautiful Magical Town.
LOCAL CULTURE
Izamal is somewhere you can fully enjoy the cultural integrity and the proud expression of folk art by local people (called Izamaleños). For this reason, exploring its museums like the Convent of San Antonio de Padua is a must. There, you can appreciate the beautifully restored altarpiece, the stained glass of San Francisco de Asís, and many sculptures along the walls, including the impressive depiction of Our Lady of Izamal. Another must-visit is the Izamal Cultural and Artisan Centre, which showcases the work of great folk artists. Likewise, you should visit the workshop of local artisan Esteban Abán, who uses cocoyol seeds and henequen spines to create jewellery that has earned him national awards and he is recognized as one of Mexico’s Grand Masters of Folk Art. Taking a tour by horse and carriage is another tradition to try when visiting Izamal. This tour allows you to explore the city while listening to the sounds of horse hooves galloping, providing a truly unique sensation.
A CULINARY TREAT
During your visit to Izamal be sure not to miss out on tasting traditional Yucatan cuisine, which combines pre-Hispanic Mayan ingredients with the ingredients and techniques brought by the Spanish during the Spanish Conquest. At the Izamal Municipal Market, you can find local products and traditional dishes such as pavo asado, relleno negro, cochinita pibil, tortas, tacos and much more.
While the market is a great option when looking for something delicious to eat, you also should not miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at the Kinich restaurant. For 30 years chefs Miriam Azcorra and Georgina Pech Moo have promoted and shared authentic Mayan cuisine, delighting their diners with intense and authentic flavours.
In Izamal you’ll also find plenty of other restaurants with a traditional Yucatan menu that will leave you wanting more.
SEE THE CAPTIVATING SHOW “THE LIGHT OF THE MAYANS”
Enjoying Izamal after sunset is also possible with the audio-light show "The Light of the Mayans” (La Luz de los Mayas) in the courtyard of the Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua. This show consists of projections of images onto the arches beneath the belfry of the Third Order and offers a careful narration of the Mayan past and present bringing it to life and immersing the viewer in the true splendour of Mayan culture. As well as the display there are Mayan musical compositions specially designed and synchronized for this grand event by local musicians and songs performed by Mayan children.
BIKE & ATV TOURS
Among the many other experiences you can find in Izamal, are bike tours through the city’s beautiful streets, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the city and taking you to the most picturesque places in town.
For the adrenaline junkies, you can ride your own ATV, accelerating through the streets of the Magical Town, its Mayan pyramids, colonial buildings, and workshops, turning the ancient city of Izamal into a true open-air museum. On the tour, you can explore the archaeological areas while enjoying the majestic view.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES
Izamal is home to many significant Mayan archaeological sites, such as the Kinich Kakmó Pyramid, located to the north of the city's main square and considered to be one of the largest pyramids in Mexico. There’s also the Tu’U Pyramid, popularly known as "The Rabbit”, whose original purpose remains unknown, although it is believed to have served as the home of an important dignitary of the time.
Just like these two pyramids, there are many other great attractions to visit in this beautiful Magical Town. So, on your next vacation come and experience them first-hand, accompanied by the travel planner yucatan.travel and allow yourself to discover this amazing city steeped in history and adorned in white and yellow.
