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Izamal
City
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Izamal
is located in the middle of the Yucatan Peninsula in the State of
Yucatan, Mexico.
Its probably one of the eldest cities in Yucatan, founded in the 4th century A.D. by Itzamna, leader and patriarch of the Mayan people. Religion has been closely related to its history, since the Spaniard conquerors made of this city a Christian sanctuary to convert Indians to Catholicism. Known as the "City of three cultures", Izamal bring together elements of the prehispanic, colonial and contemporary eras. Numerous prehispanic constructions, some currently under restoration, are located within the city, providing a beautiful contrast next to the remains of Colonial Era. Near is great prehispanic construction were built in honor of the god Zamma, wise and beneficent deity of the ancient mayas, is the famous Convent dedicated to the Virgins of Izamal, built by Franciscan monks the first years of Spanish rule. In their zeal to evangelize the new continent, the Franciscans expended great effort in building monuments such as temples and convents, today giving a special value to Yucatan. Actually
known as the "City of the Hills" because of the archaeological
remains located in the town centre, including the pyramid of Kinich-Kakmo
(with 35 mts is the tallest in Yucatan), the pyramids of Itzamatul,
Kabul and Hucpintok, among others. Izamal
is a gorgeous colonial city with interesting buildings and beautiful
old houses painted in white and ochre, making the entire city
look like a movie set. cobblestone streets and colonial lamp posts
complete this majestic scenery, making it a great town to stroll
either walking or in a Victoria or Calesa (a horse-drawn carriage
typical in Izamal) that can be taken at the Plaza and lead you
all over town for a reasonable price.
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| Izamal main attractions are: | |||||||
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The
Franciscan Monastery: Built
on top of a Mayan pyramid using its stones and famous for its majestic
porticoes cloister, the largest in America. Its 75 arches form a
long corridor enclosing a space of more than seven thousand square
meters. In 1993, Pope John Paul II met here with representatives
of various ethnic communities of the continent. You will note a
beautifully restored altarpiece, a stained glass window of St. Francis
of Assi and many statues along the walls. Its also the Sanctuary
where the Immaculate Conception, known as the Virgin of Izamal (queen
and patroness of Yucatan), is housed and venerated.
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The
Government Palace:
where you should not miss a large city model where you can see the
pyramids, colonial style buildings, parks, plazas, horses and people.
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The
Kinich Kalmo:
pyramid is the largest prehispanic building in Yucatan, covering
a surface area of 4 hectares, The stairway on its southern side
is formed of enormous rocks, evidence of the immense effort of the
Maya people to render homage to their gods. Also worthy of a visit
are Itzamatul, Habuc and Chaltunha, testimony of eras long past.
The Community Museum: located under the Convent in front of 5 de Mayo Park. |
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