All about Parque a la Maternidad in Mérida (2025 Guide)

The real name of the park next the church Iglesia de Jesus is actually Morelos Park. Everyone around here simply calls the small park "Parque a la Maternidad" or "Parque de la Madre," which translates to "Mother's Park" in English.

There’s a pretty simple reason for it. Right in the middle of the park, there’s a statue dedicated to motherhood. It’s made of light marble and has been there since October 12, 1928.

Interestingly, it’s a replica of a piece by the sculptor André Lenoir, whose original work can be found in Paris. André Lenoir was a sculptor known for his detailed and expressive works, often focusing on themes of human emotion and classical beauty.

The Parque a la Maternidad is right in the historic center between the church Iglesia de Jesus and the José Peón Contreras Theater. There are a few large trees and, as everywhere, some park benches, but it is really only a very small square.

Across the block is the Palacio de la Música and the Plaza Grande is also just one block south. The small Parque Hildalgo can be found a few meters on the opposite side of the church.

Monument to Motherhood

The artwork was donated to the city by the Liga de Acción Social, a Yucatecan non-profit organization dedicated to cultural and social causes. The organization was founded at the beginning of the 20th century.

Mother’s Day is a big deal in Mexico and, unlike in many other countries, it is celebrated on a fixed date every year, May 10th.

On this day, a special festival takes place in the park to honor mothers, a tradition started by Gonzalo Cámara Zavala, the founder of the Liga de Acción Social.

Iglesia de Jesus

Iglesia de Jesus stands right next to the small park, just as mentioned before. I highly recommend taking a look inside.

The church was built in 1618 using stones from a former Maya temple. Originally smaller, it was expanded in the late 17th century in the Baroque style and now features a traditional cruciform floor plan.

While its exterior is simple, the interior is stunning, with golden and pastel frescoes, detailed murals, and an impressive wooden altarpiece showcasing Christ, the Virgin Mary, and Saint Ignatius of Loyola.