The archaeological zone of Acanceh is a candy in Yucatan. It is passing through to sweet destinations and barely attracts attention. It's worth stopping in Acanceh.
Acanceh is a Yucatecan population traveled by being on the way to several tourist attractions, such as the archaeological zone of Mayapán, some hacienda in the area or the famous cenotes of Cuzamá or Homún.
The archeological zone of Acanceh immediately attracts attention from being seen from the main town square, is a beautiful picture next to the Catholic temple. Two worlds found and faced, and so continue in one way or another. The image is curious but the vestige is presented as an unattractive building: a rock mazacote that does not invite to stop. If you decide to visit it you will get a pleasant surprise with the treasures that it preserves.
For connoisseurs of the Mayan civilization it is a visit marked in capital letters on the map: Acanceh treasures the best preserved masks of Yucatan, in addition to precious reliefs in a frieze that unfortunately has lost its original painting. They are a beauty, candy on the road.
Meet the best 5 Mayan archeological zones of Yucatán
How to go to Acanceh from Mérida?
The situation of the archaeological zone of Acanceh (moan of deer) is perfect to visit from Merida. It is located on the way to Mayapán and the cenotes of Cuzamá and Homún, of the best known cenotes in the state of Yucatán. Many tourists pass through Acanceh every day without just looking back. The only explanation I find for not visiting this Mayan architectural candy is that you don't know how good it awaits you.
If you go from Mérida take the 59 street to the peripheral of the city, follow the sign for the road to Chichén Itzá, after 5 km there is a detour to Acanceh. to 28 kilometers from Merida, 40 minutes.
Archaeological site of Acanceh
As we discussed, many pass through the town of Acanceh and are curious about the temple that can be seen from the town square. Nail stones that if you do not know you pass them by. The ancient Mayan city of Acanceh occupied 3 km2, and 300 structures have been posted. Of all the structures there are two that stand out in a considerable way: The Pyramid and the Palace of the Stucco.
The piramid from Acanceh
The Acanceh temple seen from the square, called the Pyramid, preserves the most beautiful masks of Yucatan. I would say that together with those of Kohunlich in Quintana Roo, they are part of the elite of Mayan masks. Eight fantastic masks surround the pyramidal cusp of 11 meters high, two masks on each side of the cardinal points. The fact that all masks lack their nose gives rise to diverse theories of why.
From the past we see the Mayan, colonial and contemporary past in a single space, our tracks leaving scars on the landscape and its inhabitants. The pyramid is a building that retains much of its original stucco, being able to contemplate and give rise to imagine how the old buildings were covered. I always miss more information in the archeological zones that can place us and guide us better in time.
Palace of the Stuccos from Acanceh
The other great vestige called Palacio de los Estucos, a large structure of
50 meters wide and 6 meters high, is located a few blocks from the main square, on 18 street. Mario, the kind and friendly INAH worker who charges the tickets, is the one who accompanies you to open both enclosures. Surely he tells you about the discoveries of the archaeologists with whom he was lucky to share and learn, shortly after he sees your interest you will see how he gives you a good talk.
Thanks to the documents provided by Mario, from old photos, press clippings and photocopies of the originals that he keeps in the house, it is much easier to imagine the place as it was originally, and the visit is more enjoyed. Acanceh's beautiful frieze is another must-see treasure along the way. Unfortunately today we see it blurred and barely without color, but it gives rise to imagine how beautiful these cities were.
Among photos, anecdotes and old documentation, the visit to Acanceh is lived in a special way, close and authentic. Hopefully on your visit to Mayapán or to the cenotes of Homún or those of Cuzamá have the time and the desire to visit Acanceh. You are going to take a tasty caramel.
Acanceh, archaeological site
LOCATION: Acanceh is located 27 km east of Merida. If you go from Mérida, take 59th street to the peripheral of the city, follow the sign for the road to Chichén Itzá, after 5 km there is a detour to Acanceh. It reaches the town of Acanceh in about 40 minutes from Mérida.SCHEDULE AND SERVICES: open from 8 a.m. to 17 p.m. daily. They do not sell drinks or food inside.
PRICE ENTRY: 45 mxn. The Sundays the entrance of INAH is free for Mexicans and permanent residents. Access to archaeological zones is free every day to children under 13 years, students, teachers and senior citizens with valid credentials.
HOW TO GET IN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION? Bus leaves from the Northeast terminal of Mérida, street 67 x 52 and 50; hours 7:45, 9:15, 10:45, 12:30 and 14:30; it costs 23 pesos. Another option is to go by bus, they leave when they fill up in front of the same terminal, on Calle 67 and charge 25 pesos. The big bus takes between 1 hour and a little longer. Buses also arrive from Piste or Valladolid.
WHAT TO BRING? Light and light clothes, hat, insect repellent, closed and comfortable shoes to climb structures and protect yourself from insect bites, some water always goes well.
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