Casa Lecanda
Merida, Mexico
Por la 54 y 56, Calle 47 471, Calle 47, Centro, Merida, Mexico, 97000
Original Property Opened in 1800
Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2015
Casa Lecanda’s magnificent story harkens back to the 19th century when the building was originally constructed as an authentic Colonial-style residence. Yet the structure began the process of converting into a luxurious boutique hotel in 2009. A talented team of architects plotted out the hotel’s careful restoration, which focused on protecting its authentic structural heritage. Preserving its classic architecture and delicate clay floors, Casa Lecanda soon began to emphasize the distinct aesthetics of the Yucatán region. Today, the original house constitutes the heart of the hotel, and contains a series of light colors that radiate a soothing ambiance. Casa Lecanda is a secluded oasis set in the charming city of Mérida. Located within the thriving Yucatán region, Mérida is a bountiful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It features an array of historic and cultural attractions for its visitors to enjoy. Located among the city’s winding streets, the hotel is just steps away from exciting ways to spend the day. When guests are looking to explore, travelers can delight in the awe-inspiring sites of Chichén Itzá and Uxmal, swim through cavernous cenotes, or tour the countryside with ease.
Discover
- Discover the Spanish Colonial-style architecture of this terrific historic hotel. The Casa Lecanda was originally constructed during the 19th century as a magnificent colonial residence.
- Admire the sights of the Parque de Santa Ana right down the road. This tranquil public square is home to a famous local church known as the Parroquia Santa Ana.
- Stroll along the Paseo de Montejo, only moments away from the hotel. Named after a famed Spanish conquistador named Francisco de Montejo, the thoroughfare is lined with many beautiful historic mansions from the 19th century.
Explore
- Explore the Plaza Grande in downtown Mérida. Also known as the Plaza Mayor and the Plaza de la Independencia, this amazing destination is set within the heart of the historic city center. Many other cultural attractions are just a short walk away, including the Palacio de Gobierno and the Museo Fernando García Ponce-Macay.
- Visit the Catedral de San Ildefonso (Cathedral of Mérida). Located mere steps from the Plaza Grande, this stunning building is among the city’s most recognizable landmarks. It is one of the most historic churches in North America, having been constructed during the late 16th century.
- Travel to the remarkable Dzibilchaltún on the outskirts of the city. Dzibilchaltún is a fascinating Mayan archeological site that features many well-preserved structures that date back thousands of years.
Experience
- Experience the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum of Mérida). This world-renowned cultural institution commemorates the rich culture of the Maya through its extensive collection of ancient artifacts.
- Tour the Palacio Cantón. This beautiful Porfirian-style building was originally constructed during the early 20th century for the prominent Cantón Rosado family. It is home to the Museo Regional de Antropología Yucatán, which also covers the history of the Mayan civilization.
- Interact with the exhibitions inside the Museo de la Ciudad de Mérida. The museum is focused on telling the great story of Mérida’s past from pre-Columbian times to the present. Few places are better in the whole city to learn of its impressive history.
Taste
- Savor a delicious local dish called ceviche. Eaten throughout the Yucatán, ceviche consists of raw fish marinated in citrus juice, chilies, cilantro, and chopped onions. Many restaurants in Mérida serve this local delicacy given their proximity to the ocean.
- Taste a salbute or panucho when out exploring Mérida. Salbutes are deep-fried, puffy corn tortillas that are filled with a delectable assortment of meat, onion, and salsa. Panuchos on the other hand are very similar to salbutes, except that their crust is stuffed with refried black beans before it is cooked.
- Delight in some pibil. This amazing meal is made by wrapping rich marinated beef in banana leaves, and then barbequing it over an open fire. An especially popular variant is the “cochinita pibil,” which involves using the meat from an entire suckling pig.