Merida, Yucatan

The St. Ildephonsus Cathedral in Merida, Yucatan was built during the 16th Century.

The St. Ildephonsus Cathedral

So much of the architecture in Merida is beautiful, but sadly has a haunting history. The Cathedral, for example, was built on the ruins of the Mayan settlement Ichcansiho. The buildings of Merida, including the cathedral, were built by the Mayan people after they were enslaved by the Spaniards, their conquerers.

Notice the five slits below the window? Those slits were created as a method of defense, so the Spaniards could shoot the Mayans if they attempted to overtake the cathedral. 

The main door of the Cathedral is known as “The Door of Forgiveness.” It is flanked by statues of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. But I must say to me it looks more like the door of a fortress than the door of a church.

Main Door

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