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All about Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura in Mérida (2025)

Updated: 

May 29, 2025

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Author: Tobias

Caracol Púrpura in central Mérida is a small cultural center featuring rotating exhibitions of contemporary Mexican art and sculpture. Located on Calle 60 near Parque de Santa Lucía, it also houses Café Portavía, making it a relaxing spot for both coffee and culture in the city center.

Caracol Púrpura offers Mexican art and sculptures in several small galleries and also the cafe Portavía.
Portrait of Tobias Wellhausen, German travel writer and Mérida expert.
Hi, I’m Tobias – a German travel writer with a home in Mérida and a passion for exploring new places.

For over 20 years, my wife (a local) and I have traveled Mérida, and the Yucatán Peninsula. On this site I share real insights on 200+ places.

Learn more: Our story

Disclosure: This article contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. (#Disclosure Policy)

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Quick Facts: Address & Details

📍  Address:

C. 60 466, Parque Santa Lucia, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

☎️  Phone:

↔️  Distance:

⏳  Travel Time:

🎟️  Admission:

💵  Price Level:

📆  Since:

⭐  Rating:

🕒  Open:

+52 999 414 7428

1.3 km from Casa Loltún

Within the city

No entry fee

High (Upscale)

2007

average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 168 votes, Ratings

• Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

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First-Hand Insights on Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura

If I lived in Mérida full-time, I think I’d really enjoy creating a little spot with a special vibe – something with art, a cozy café, nothing crowded, just personal and laid-back. Kind of like the Caracol Púrpura gallery.


Ideally, I’d mix in some pre-Columbian pieces and share their stories over a good cup of espresso with anyone curious enough to ask. But the sculptures, paintings, jewelry, and everything else at Púrpura are also really beautiful.


The Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura is located on Calle 60, just a few meters from Parque de Santa Lucía, one of Mérida’s most charming squares (and I really like it too).


Founded in 2007, the gallery showcases Mexican and Latin American art, including paintings, sculptures, and handmade jewelry. The space is arranged around a central courtyard, where you’ll also find Café Portavía.


Most of the pieces are handcrafted using traditional techniques, making it a great place to find authentic and high-quality artwork. The gallery is no longer an insider tip, but it’s not overcrowded either. It remains a beautiful, quiet, and relaxed place.


Silver jewelry in the Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura
Silver jewelry

A Wide Range of Art and Prices


Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a small souvenir, there’s something for every budget. You can spend thousands of dollars on large sculptures or pick up a silver ring for just a few dollars.


You can also find beautiful, artistic alebrijes, the famous colorful fantasy creatures that are an iconic part of Mexican folk art. If you’re hunting for a small, typically Mexican souvenir, this makes a lovely little keepsake.


If you’re not in Mérida, you can explore the Caracol Púrpura website, which includes an online store offering handmade Mexican silver, glass, and amber jewelry, along with other unique pieces.


Large Ceramic Sculptures


Right at the entrance, you’ll find impressive ceramic sculptures, including beautifully crafted calaveras. In Spanish, calavera means skull, but in Mexican culture, it often refers to the entire skeleton and is strongly associated with the Day of the Dead celebrations.


These vibrant tributes to death and remembrance hold special meaning in Yucatán, where Día de los Muertos is called Hanal Pixán – a tradition honoring the dead with offerings, food, and rituals.


If you check out Our Story, you’ll spot a similar sculpture there, it comes from the gallery too. The gallery has some truly stunning large sculptures and vases – absolutely gorgeous, though they can be quite pricey.


Calavera for the Day of the Dead
A calavera from Caracol Púrpura

Where Art Meets Espresso


Located in the courtyard, Café Portavía completes the gallery’s laid-back vibe. Whether you stop for a coffee in the afternoon or a breakfast (my personal favorite is their avocado toast with ricotta), it’s the perfect spot to take a break.


The setup’s pretty similar to the popular Casa T’hó – you can wander through boutique shops and galleries in a stylish space while sipping coffee or grabbing a bite.


Café Portavía, though, is really all about that perfect cup of joe, whereas Casa T’hó is also the place for a great lunch.


Supporting Local Artists


Caracol Púrpura actively supports local artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their work. From time to time, the space also hosts cultural events, including exhibition openings, artist talks, and workshops.

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General Tips for Getting Around

💡 Here are my quick shopping tips:


  1. Weekday afternoons are usually quiet.

  2. Look beyond malls – local shops are a win.

  3. Watch your valuables at all times.

  4. Markets are best early – for freshness.

  5. Bring cash – some places don’t take cards.

  6. Pack a reusable bag – it’ll come in handy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where is Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura located?

Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura is located at Calle 60 466 in Mérida’s historic city center, close to well-known landmarks such as Parque Santa Ana and Paseo de Montejo. The gallery is easily accessible on foot or by car.


🚶 How far is Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura from Plaza Grande?


Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura is located approximately 800 meters north of Plaza Grande in Mérida. Visitors can easily walk to the gallery from the central plaza in around 10 minutes via Calle 60.


👍 Is Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura worth visiting?


Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura is worth visiting for art enthusiasts seeking unique, contemporary Mexican pieces. However, the gallery primarily appeals to visitors with a specific interest in modern and local art, and may not suit all tastes.


🖼️ What can visitors see at Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura?


Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura features contemporary Mexican art, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The gallery regularly hosts exhibitions highlighting local Yucatecan artists and offers unique artworks for collectors and enthusiasts.


💰 Are prices at Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura reasonable?


Prices at Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura tend to be higher than average, reflecting the quality and exclusivity of the artwork. Visitors should expect to pay premium prices compared to typical souvenir or gift shops in Mérida.


🕰️ When was Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura established?


Art Gallery Caracol Púrpura was established in 2007 and has since become a recognized venue for contemporary art exhibitions in Mérida, contributing significantly to the city's vibrant cultural landscape.


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