Palacio Cantón, Mérida

Palacio Cantón

The Palacio Cantón was built between 1904 and 1911. Its owner and builder, General Francisco Cantón Rosado (1833-1917) only lived here for six years until his death. His family continued living here as a family residence. The family lived here for several decades and the donated the building to the government of Yucatan in 1932.

Artist View of Ancient Tikal

Palacio Cantón

Later in 1948, it was declared to be the residence of the state governors. Finally in 1966 the building became the headquarters of the Regional Museum of Anthropology. It now houses an important collection of Maya culture. The halls of the building show both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Maya Giant Mask

At the end of the 19th century, the Yucatán peninsula experienced a period of incredible prosperity. The henequen industry was developed thanks to the mechanization of North American agriculture that demanded the agave fiber for yarn, ropes and sacks.

 

Masks

The transformation of the countryside was reflected in the city of Mérida where numerous palaces were restored or built and where main streets were paved and wide avenues were opened. One of them was Paseo de Montejo, which had been proposed in 1888 and later constructed during the governorship of General Francisco Cantón Rosado. 

Relief

The Palacio Cantón became a benchmark for the affluent society of Yucatan durning the boom time of henequen. This Palacio is the most visible of historic buildings on Paseo de Montejo, the main street of Mérida that housed the richest residences of pre-revolutionary Yucatan.

Palacio Cantón is highly recommended! 

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