Espita-4
Espita-4

Culture and Traditions

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MICE tourism

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Archaeological Sites

Natural Wonders

Gastronomy

Culture and Traditions

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Adventure and Nature

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Magical Towns

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Beaches

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SIMBOLOGIA-PUEBLOS-MAGICOS-1

COLONIAL PAST IN THE MIDST OF COLORS AND FLAVORS

This town is known as the "Athens of Yucatán" due to its rich history and prominent role as a cultural center in Yucatán.

Its name, Espita, comes from Xppithá, the name of the original Mayan locality. Some interpret this name as meaning "Little Water" due to the limited availability of fresh water, while others interpret it as "Jumping Water." It is mentioned in the Chilam Balam of Chumayel as one of the places visited by the Itzáes during their pilgrimages.

Walking through the streets of the town center is an experience that stimulates the senses and transports you to a glorious past. In addition to its rich pre-Hispanic history, Espita also boasts a colonial past reflected in its majestic and colorful buildings like the San José Church.

It is located approximately two hours from Mérida and less than an hour from Valladolid and Chichén Itzá.

Espita

What to See in Espita

Tourist Attractions in Espita

Iglesia de San José (Church)

This impressive church was built by the Franciscans in the early 17th century and rebuilt in the 18th century. A very particular feature is that it shared space with a ceremonial center of the ancient inhabitants. Another anecdote about the church is that during the Revolution, it was converted into a military barracks, and the image of the Child God, the town's patron saint along with San José, was hidden in the homes of the townspeople so they could continue praying.

Palacio Municipal (City Hall) 

The municipal palace is one of the most beautiful, ancient, and photogenic buildings in the town.

Melchor Ocampo Park

This is the central plaza and a gathering place for locals and visitors. It is the starting point for exploring the beautiful surrounding buildings. The park is full of lush trees and has a central kiosk. It offers several Instagrammable spots, such as the colorful town sign, the heart-shaped arbor, or the giant confessional chairs.

In the afternoons, it becomes the ideal place to savor delicious marquesitas, hamburgers, or ice creams.

Antigua Estación de Ferrocarril (Old Railway Station)

This place tells the history of the town dating back to the late 19th century, during the golden age of henequen. When henequen activity declined, this space was used as a habanero chili packing plant. It remained abandoned for many years until recently it was converted into the Casa de la Cultura “La Atenas de Yucatán.” Although the station was renovated, the original architectural design was preserved, as well as the finishes of the doors and windows. It is a beautiful space where various workshops, theater plays, and artistic and cultural exhibitions are held.

Mercado Municipal (Market)

In the Juan José Méndez municipal market, you can experience the colors, smells, and flavors of the town. It is the ideal place to buy handicrafts and try local snacks and dishes. It is an old building with high ceilings, wrought iron balconies, and typical arches, with a square featuring an attractive fountain.

Hacienda Santa Teresa Kancabá

This is a historical gem with a large house and an attractive cenote.

Tahcabo Ruins

This little-known but very mysterious archaeological site’s main attraction is the Múul or "mound," a building that has not been fully restored and appears to be more than 2,500 years old. In this place, you can also visit a cenote and the ruins of an old church. There is a Community Museum in the center of Tahcabo where the pieces found on the site are exhibited. It is located just 25 km from the Pueblo Mágico.

What to Do in Espita

Select your Adventure in Yucatán

UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES IN ESPITA

Enjoy the town's atmosphere

Stroll through its streets and admire all its colonial buildings, not forgetting to visit the Market.

Visit the Ek Balam Archaeological Zone

An ancient Mayan capital that became one of the most important in the region.

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Take a photo at the Old Railway Station

The tracks in front of the station, partly covered by vegetation, are one of the best places to take souvenir photos.

Explore other destinations in Yucatán

Valladolid

Izamal

Mérida

Sisal

Progreso

Ría Lagartos

Live your favorite experience in Yucatán

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