The state of Yucatán is renowned for its myriad natural and historical attractions, but also for its beautiful cities, one of which is the Magical Town of Izamal.

Known as the city of three cultures, it blends the pre-Hispanic and colonial history of the state while reflecting contemporary life.

As you walk through its streets, you will notice a very curious detail: all the houses are painted yellow and white. This is because in 1993, His Holiness Pope John Paul II visited Izamal and offered a solemn mass in the atrium of one of the most important sites here. To welcome him, the streets were decorated with the colors of the Vatican, and these colors have remained as a distinctive symbol of the place.

The Convent of San Antonio de Padua is truly remarkable and boasts the second-largest enclosed atrium in the world, right after the one in the Vatican.

But that's not all there is to see in this city. As you stroll through the plaza, you will notice various artisans creating their products, which you can purchase at very good prices. These are made from natural materials such as cocoyol, wood, and henequen.

Nearby, you will find another key piece of Mayan history: the ruins where you can observe the great pyramid of Kinich Kak Moo, where it is said that rites of worship and sacrifices to the god Itzamná were performed. Evidence of these are the small plazas seen at the tops of some structures.

Additionally, during the month of December, it is common to see the streets filled with color and festivity as the locals gather around the Virgin and their celebrations.

Izamal is only an hour away from the city of Mérida. Along the way, you will encounter other equally attractive places such as Chemax and Dzibilchaltún. It is located right in the center of the peninsula, 72 km east of the city of Mérida via state highway s/n towards Tekantó; turn right at km 54.

Video of Izamal