The route of the convents
Photography by Bill Bell
We spent over a month in Merida and was visited by my cousin, Maisie McKinnon. The following photographs were taken on a day excursion to the route of the convents, an easy day drive into the heart of Yucatan Peninsula.
The route of the convents is an extended adventure in which you will learn about the heart and background of Yucatán. Since the arrival of the Franciscans in 1524, many of the temples, convents and chapels in Yucatán were constructed
Acanceh (deer moan): It is a village located 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Mérida, where one can find in the central plaza “La Gran Pirámide” (The Great Pyramid), the “Templo de los Estucos” (The Stucco Temple), a colonial and a modern church.
Tecoh (Place of the puma): Eight kilometers (5 miles) away you will find the “Convent of the Virgin of the Assumption” that dates back to 1751. This temple is constructed over a Mayan pyramid and has a small market and church.
Telchaquillo: Is a small village that has a church and the front steps to the main park lead to a beautiful crystalline cenote (sink hole).
Mayapán: Walled and with 4000 mounds, it reminds us of the ancient capital of the triple alliance it formed with the cities of Uxmal and Chichen Itza. Among its buildings is the “Castillo de Kukulcán” (Castle of Kukulcán) which is made in the image and likeness of the one at Chichen Itza. Currently they are working on six pyramids. The others are still covered in weeds.
Tekit (where there were rubber trees): Is a small prosperous village that was important in the colonial period. Here you will find the “Capilla de San Cristobal” (Chapel of Saint Christopher) y la “Parroquia de San Antonio de Padua” (Parish of San Antonio de Padua), in the convent annex they have a collection of paintings from the 16th century.
Mama: It is believed that the “Iglesia de la Asuncion” (Church of the Assumption) is the oldest of the route. The front is crowned with a bell tower, has pictures on the walls with saints inset and behind the church is a beautiful garden which has the remains of four sun dials.
Chumayel: In this village is found the sacred livery of the Maya, the “Chilan Balam.” You will find the temple and the convent that is dedicated to the “Virgin of the Conception.”
