Behind the grand walls of an Italian Renaissance-style mansion are the extensive collections of the Anthropology and History Museum, dedicated to local Maya history and anthropology. Browse a wealth of archeological treasures and cultural artifacts.
The museum is located in Canton Palace, an early 20th-century building that has served many purposes. It was once a family home, a residence for several governors and the headquarters of a fine arts school. It has housed the current museum since 1980.
This educational institution presents a roster of temporary exhibitions covering the area’s cultural heritage from before the Spanish arrived to the present day. Wander through the exhibition halls where you may see ancient Maya statues, artwork from numerous towns, ancient friezes, sacrificial implements and limestone monuments. Other exhibitions explore numerous themes, such as Maya customs and culture.
Spend a few moments admiring the splendour of your surroundings with its marble floors, stucco detailing and the staircase made from marble from Carrara, Italy. The building also has the first elevator in Yucatan, which was brought over from Germany in 1911.
Discover more opportunities to learn about the region's culture through the museum's schedule of academic and cultural activities. This also includes programmes for children. For details, consult the museum’s official website.
The Anthropology and History Museum is open every day except Mondays and has an admission fee, which is waived for those under 13 and over 60 years of age. Note that admission is free for everyone on Sundays.
Located in downtown Merida on the Paseo de Montejo, the city’s main thoroughfare, the popular attraction is easy to get to by taxi and public transportation. Alternatively, drive and park for a fee in nearby lots. After your visit to the Anthropology and History Museum, stroll along Paseo Montejo, which has been nicknamed the Champs-Élysées of Merida. The wide, pedestrian-friendly avenue is lined with mansions, cafés, restaurants and hotels.
