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Culture and Traditions
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Adventure and Nature
Magical Towns
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Information
MICE tourism
MAGICAL LAND WITH ANCIENT TRADITIONS
It is a magical land that traces the origins of its name to the Maya language, "Place where everything happened" or "Manik," a day in the Maya calendar associated with the deer.
Although there are no exact records of its earliest occupation, archaeological evidence at the Xcabachen cenote and the explored architectural complexes in Tipikal suggest that human groups settled there around the Middle Preclassic period, approximately between 1000 and 400 BCE.
It was the first Maya community where Franciscan missionaries arrived to build the convent dedicated to San Miguel Arcángel. During the Mesoamerican Postclassic period, it was the political capital of the Tutulxiu Maya. After their defeat by the colonizers, the Batab Xiu of Maní allied with the Spanish.
One of the most tragic stories of Maní is the burning of Maya codices by Fray Diego de Landa during an Auto de Fe, as this Spanish cleric considered the scientific works of the Maya "nothing but the lies of the Devil." He collected all their idols and codices on history, medicine, and traditions and burned them in a large bonfire in front of the monastery.
Later, perhaps out of repentance, Diego de Landa wrote a book describing everything he had learned from the Maya.
Maní is approximately 91 km (about one hour) from the city of Mérida, 228 km (2 hours and 45 minutes) from Valladolid, and 182 km (2 and a half hours) from Campeche.
Maní
What to See in Man
Tourist Attractions in Mani
Convento de San Miguel Arcángel (Convent)
It was founded in 1549 and was primarily built between the 16th and 17th centuries, using stones from pre-Hispanic Maya structures as the main material. The initial construction was overseen by Friar Juan de Mérida. It served as one of the first evangelization schools and was also one of the earliest hospitals in the Americas.
The highlight is the majestic open chapel, one of the largest in all of Latin America, which preserves some details on its walls. Standing in front of it allows you to contemplate centuries of history that the place holds.
The convent comprises a large rectangular atrium, a "posa" chapel, an open chapel, the main church with four chapels, a cloister, the conventual precinct, a garden, and the remains of the old Indian school.
Inside the church and convent, there are 16th-century mural paintings and seven altars with five 17th-century polychrome altarpieces.
Town Center
The historic center of this beautiful Magical Town is filled with stories and legends that many of its residents are always eager to share. Walking among the ancient buildings, plazas, and churches will transport you to another era."
Cenote Xcabachen
You can learn about the legend that surrounds the Xcabachen cenote, one of the main attractions in Maní. Its name means "well" because the cenote's structure resembles a well.
The ancient legend tells that many years ago, the Maya predicted that when the water runs out in the world, the only place that will still have water is this cenote. But when people go to fetch it, a Mayan guardian will appear, accompanied by a serpent. This serpent is the god Kukulcán, and those who want to drink from the well will have to pay a high price.
The cenote itself is a downhill cave, and while swimming is not allowed due to its structure, it is possible to visit. For many locals, it metaphorically represents an entrance to the underworld.
Solar Maya
The 'solar' is located on the corner of 33rd and 22nd streets and consists of a large area where various activities are held to showcase the community’s daily life. It includes a meliponary, farm animals, and traditional Maya houses. This is a great way to interact with the community.
Living Museum of the Melipona Bee
Consiste en 12 paneles que tienen información sobre las abejas. La temática se divide en: tierra, las plantas, las abejas y los seres humanos.
This museum offers the experience of tasting honey directly from the hive and enjoying a delicious handmade pollen and honey ice cream.
Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs.
What to Do in Maní
Select your Adventure in Yucatán
UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES IN MANÍ
Visit the Meliponarios (Apiaries)
Meliponas are a species of stingless bees, and in Maní, their breeding is promoted by offering tourists a tour of five meliponarios. This visit allows you to learn about the benefits of these bees and offers a culturally rich experience, much like honey.
In these meliponarios, you will also learn about Maní's cultural wealth through activities related to the breeding and care of these stingless bees. Additionally, you can participate in workshops to create products based on honey, ceremonies, and even rituals. For the Maya, the honey of the melipona bee has magical properties that make it medicinal and nutritious.
Explore the Surroundings by Bicycle
This beautiful Magical Town is perfect for exploring its surroundings by bicycle while enjoying its beautiful landscapes.
Explore other destinations in Yucatán
Valladolid,
Izamal
Mérida
Sisal
Progreso
Ría Lagartos
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