Go visit the city of Izamal, located in the state of Yucatán. Known for its archaeological remains, just like Uxmal. Discover its different cultures, walk through its streets and enjoy it!

History of Izamal in Yucatán

Founded in the XVI century, Izamal is a colonial city known for its yellow and white colors, chosen to paint all the houses in 1993 due to the visit of John Paul II, wanting to make a reference to the Vatican.

Its name means ”dew that descends from the sky”, whose origin comes from the Mayan priest who lived in the city at that time, called Itzamná. It is also called ”City of the hills” or ”city of the three cultures” (pre-Columbian, colonial and contemporary).

También es conocido por ser uno de los pueblos mágicos de México, al igual que Chiapas, un destino que te invitamos a conocer.

During the years 850 and 1000 A.D. it was one of the most important Mayan cities. Up to seven pyramids were built at the site and are some of the attractions for tourists visiting Izamal.

The pyramids of Izamal

In Izamal we can find several pyramids: first we will talk about the Kinich Kakmó pyramid, the largest in the entire Yucatan peninsula. The name means ”Fire macaw with a solar face”.

The name comes from the fact that the Maya believed that the god Kinich came down from the sun in the form of a macaw to burn and purify all the offerings that were taken to the pantheon.

The second largest building in Izamal is the temple and pyramid of Itzamatúl, which means ”the one who receives or possesses the grace of heaven”. It is 22 meters high.

You will also find the Tu’Ui pyramid, which was built in three different stages. At present, its exact function is not known, although it is believed that it could have been the base of a room of a Mayan citizen with an important position.

The Hbuk pyramid, ”water dress” is located in a square, made up of four buildings. It has a platform of 90 meters and almost 4 meters high.

The Lakin Hal cenote in Izamal

The cenote you can visit in Izamal is Lakin Hal. It is inside a grotto that is accessed through an entrance from the surface.

To reach it you will have to descend a metal spiral staircase. Its waters are shallow, so you can dive and/or snorkel without problems. There is also a restaurant.

By the way, do you know the cenote Ik Kil? Si no lo has visitado, te lo recomendamos.

Destinations nearby Izamal: Mérida

Just 70 kilometers from Mérida, it can be one more stop on your route to get to know the most representative cities of Mexico.

Recommended destination and lodging: Cancun

Just as we recommend a tour of the different magical towns or neighboring areas, you may also be interested in a few days of relaxation in one of the hotels in Cancun.

Its all-inclusive hotels offer unbeatable services, unique restaurants and bars and much more. You can go with friends or family, even for a romantic getaway. Why not discover all that the oasis hotel group can do for you?