All about Parque de San Sebastián in Mérida, Mexico

Parque de San Sebastián, just southwest of the city center, is one of the oldest parks in the historic center of Mérida. It is, however, just a small square opposite the Parroquia de San Sebastián (St. Sebastian's Church).

The park consists of only half a dozen large trees grouped around a round fountain in the middle. Of course, there are also the obligatory park benches, which are nicely shaded by the surrounding trees in this tranquil spot. The white love chairs typical of Mérida can also be found.

The church and the park together take up half the block, the other half consists of a sports complex. Several food stalls and restaurants serving local food in the surrounding area. It's the only park in Mérida that I know of where you have to walk up a few steps because it's a little higher up.

Is this a recommendation?

Let's be very clear about this: I wouldn’t go there just for the park, but the San Sebastián neighborhood is definitely worth a visit. It’s one of the oldest and most traditional quarters of Mérida.

The highlight is the impressive and fairly large Parroquia de San Sebastián, a stunning 17th-century church that’s truly beautiful and well worth exploring.

The neighbarhood

Together with the Parque de San Sebastián and the Mercado San Sebastián in the neighbouring block to the south, the Parroquia de San Sebastián church forms the centre of the district of the same name.

The Parroquia de San Sebastián originally began as a small hermitage and stands as one of the earliest churches constructed by the Spanish following the city's conquest in the 16th century.

Mercado San Sebastián, a bustling food market filled with affordable dining spots, is situated just a block away from Calle 77. Sampling traditional Mexican dishes at the city's markets offers an authentic experience. Otherwise, however, the market is unfortunately one of the less attractive in Mérida.

Festivities at San Sebastián

Every year in August, festivities are held in the San Sebastián district, bringing the neighborhood to life with traditional music, dances, and vibrant celebrations.

Although it is called the Feast of St. Sebastian, the celebrations are in honor of Our Lady of the Assumption. The celebrations begin in early August and last just under fifteen days, sometimes a little longer.

When you're in the city, make sure to check out which Festivals in Mérida are taking place during your visit. Mexicans love to celebrate, and there are major festivities in Mérida almost every month.

Image Source: ©Misael Lavadores, wiki commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

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