VALLADOLID

Sometimes known as “the Heroic City” due to the many epic events that make up its history, Valladolid is an elegant colonial town founded in 1544 on the ancient Mayan site of Zaci, which was the ancient capital of the province of Cupules. Located in the east of Yucatan State, it was the scene of many rebellions and struggles between conquerors and conquered. It is now a blooming city only minutes away from the archeological zone of Chichen Itza, and an hour and a half from the beaches of Cancun.

Its attractions include the Monastery of San Bernardino, a building of majestic dimensions and sober Franciscan style. The high altarpiece is made of carved wood painted gold, with statues and motifs that give it an unmistakable Baroque appearance. The statue placed there of the Virgin of Guadalupe, patron saint of Mexico, is about 400 years old.

The Church of San Gervasio, with its twin bell towers, contains the cannons used to retake the city in 1848 when it fell into the hands of rebel Indians who began the Caste War. Nearby is the Zaci Cenote, a deep freshwater well which in the past provided water to the populace and is now a natural swimming pool with a restaurant. Valladolid has comfortable hotels and fine restaurants where one can enjoy fine cuisine.