Yucatán Peninsula 1/3
Cenote Kankirixche
Cenotes are natural pit, or sinkhole, in a specific type of rock. They are mostly found in North and Central America, more specifically in the Yucatán Peninsula. There are more than 6,000 cenotes in the peninsula.
In the adjacent photo, the first cenote I visited can be seen. Obviously, when I arrived, I was a disappointed to see only a hole of only a few metres in the ground. But after a few minutes, I was really impressed by this hole. It contains awesome crystalline blue water where bathing is great...
Even if the cenote's opening seems small, the interior is vastly more spacious. In addition to a swim, the cave is a nice sight.
Cenote Zací
Imagine, this cenote is located in the centre of the city of Valladolid, in a central park. There are even fishes in this lake.
Merida
Merida is described as one of the nicest colonial cities of Mexico. Really? I was not at all impressed by the town. It's a pretty town filled with tourists, but nothing is impressive.
An ancient Mayan city, T'Ho (city's old name) was conquered in 1542 by the Spanish. The Mayan structures were demolished, and the material used in several buildings such as the cathedral.
Izamal
Izamal is known as the 'yellow city'. It shelters one of the first monasteries built in the western hemisphere.
The church on this picture is part of the San Antonio de Padua Monastery. Its construction was completed in 1561.
Valladolid
Nice town known for the Zací cenote (see above). The town is an ancient Maya ceremonial centre conquered by the Spanish in 1543. As for Merida, the Mayan structures were completely destroyed.
