Have you ever heard of Valladolid? Not the city in the Spain, in Mexico we have our very own Valladolid and it’s found in the Yucatan Peninsula, right between Merida and Cancun and very close to archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Coba.
A CITY RICH IN HISTORY
Valladolid was founded in 1543 by Francisco de Montejo and is known for the rich history that is hidden in every corner. In 1847, following the death sentence of Manuel Antonio Ay, the social movement against the Spanish known as the War of the Castes began in Yucatan, a fight for the rights and independence of the native Maya.
On June 4, 1910 Valladolid became a spark in the Mexican Revolution as it set the scene for the Dzelkoop Plan, an armed rebellion against the dictatorship of Porfirio Diaz. The bravery of the people of Valladolid stoked national resentment against the then president.
MAGIC TOWN
Valladolid was designated a “Magic Town” in 2012 thanks to the conservation of its traditions and the strong influence of its indigenous past. The town will flood you with an incredible vibe that compels you to explore and the friendliness of the people, the delicious food and the striking architecture makes the “Heroic Zaci” one of the most recommended destinations for your vacation in 2019.
Are you ready to discover the magic of Yucatan culture? Here are six places you MUST visit when in Valladolid, Yucatan.
ZENTIK PROJECT
This hotel is a living gallery, here you’ll find artwork from local artists and enjoy an ecological and harmonious space where you can immerse yourself in the thermal pool and enjoy the different traditional spa treatments that are offered.
MUNICIPAL MARKET DONATO BATES
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the best food of the region, dare to try the cochinita, lechon, the delicious polcanes and other Yucatecan treats that will delight your palate! Don’t forget to order a super cold Coca Cola!
BAR LA JOYITA
Hang out with the local people of Valladolid in one of the most emblematic cantinas in town, you can enjoy the famous snacks and a cold beer!
MEZCALERÍA DON TREJO
Delight in the different flavors of mezcal and show off your best salsa dance moves while making international friends, the fun is guaranteed. If Latin rhythms aren’t your thing, you can enjoy today’s hottest hits on the back patio where you can relax in the bed-style seats.
CALZADA DE LOS FRAILES
Admire the Colonial architecture of the Calzada and visit the unique businesses located on this famous strip, handicrafts, clothes, restaurants and more. You can explore this extensive alley on a bike or walking while you enjoy the brightly colored buildings that are ideal settings for your photos.
NOCHES DE LA HEROICA VALLADOLID
This audiovisual spectacle narrates the most important tales of the history of Valladolid, projected on the ancient walls of the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena from Wednesday to Sunday and you can listen in English or Spanish.
Do you need more reasons to come to Valladolid? This beautiful colonial town is only a 45 minute drive from the impressive archaeological site of Chichen Itza. Once you’ve explored the ancient Maya city and taken enough selfies with the Kukulcan Temple behind you, we’ll be waiting for you at Chichen Adventure with lots of thrilling activities, tasty regional food and a spectacular cenote surrounded by the jungle.
