Photo Essays / Merida

Merida

Formally called T'ho by the ancient Mayans, Merida is perhaps one of the longest inhabited cities in the Americas.

A torrero comes face to face with el toro at the Plaza de Toros bullring in Merida. <a href=></a> A bus blasts down Calle 60 beneath the balcony of the Bella Epoca restaurant. Anyone who has walked the streets of Merida does not soon forget the traffic. <a href=></a> The annual carnaval is yet another reason for Meridanos to party. <a href=></a> The oldest cathedral in the Americas stands in Merida's zocalo. It was the second one built, but the first one, in Mexico City, collapsed and had to be rebuilt. <a href=></a> Mayan residents in the White City didn't understand the numbered streets imposed by the Spaniards, so street corners were annointed with memorable names, commemorated today by these ubiquitous plaques. <a href=></a> Every sunday, the historical center of Merida is closed to traffic and open to street vendors, food, music, dancing and fun. <a href=></a> If you hear a penny whistle outside, it means the knife sharpener is on your street. You can get almost any service at your doorstep in Merida. <a href=></a>

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