All about Parque de Santa Ana in Mérida, Mexico (2025 Guide)

One minute the sun’s shining, the next you’re caught in a full-on downpour – classic rainy season vibes. That’s actually my first memory of this park, getting absolutely soaked right there.

Parque de Santa Ana, at the intersection of calle 60 and Calle 47, is a city square with shade trees, benches and food vendors. The square is located one block from the north end of the iconic Paseo de Montejo.

To be honest, Santa Ana square isn't really very impressive, but in one corner of the square at Mercado Santa Ana you will find shops and cafes that offer delicious traditional Yucatecan cuisine at a great price.

Therefore, the place is well attended, especially at meal times. And also because Santa Ana is quite centrally located in the old town of Mérida.

I recommend starting your walk toward the city center from the park – it’s a great spot to ease into the vibe of Mérida. – especially along Calle 60, with all its shops, cafés, and lively vibe.

On the way, you'll pass places like

• the popular Parque de Santa Lucía,

• the large José Peón Contreras Theater,

• the Autonomous University of Yucatán,

• and the Iglesia de Jesus (Church of Jesus),

before arriving at Plaza Grande by the Palacio de Gobierno.

Monument to Andrés Quintana Roo

In 1972, a monument to Andrés Quintana Roo was erected on a pedestal in the middle of the fountain. Andrés Eligio Quintana Roo lived from November 30, 1787 to April 15, 1851 and was a Mexican liberal politician, lawyer and author.

He was the husband of independence activist Leona Vicario and a key figure in the Mexican War of Independence. As a member of the Congress of Chilpancingo, he led the drafting of the 1813 Declaration of Independence.

Quintana Roo was also a member of the Mexican Supreme Court and editor of numerous newspapers. The Mexican state of Quintana Roo was named in his honor.

The Historic Church by the Park

The park, along with the district and church of the same name, is dedicated to St. Anne. The construction of the church began in 1729 and was completed in 1733.

Various writings from the 2nd to 6th centuries describe St. Anne as the mother of Mary and, therefore, the grandmother of Jesus Christ. She has been venerated as a saint since the Middle Ages.

On the northern side of the square stands the historic church Parroquia de Santa Ana. The construction of the church was ordered by Antonio de Figueroa y Silva, a former Governor and Captain of Yucatán.

The Santa Ana Market

The Mercado Santa Ana borders the northern side of Parque de Santa Ana. The first thing that catches your eye are the bustling food stalls, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy Yucatecan specialties.

Just behind the food area, you'll find the small market hall, where you can quickly pick up fresh fruit or other local produce. Thanks to its central location in Mérida’s historic district and a rare nearby parking lot, the market is especially popular at meal times.

Historic Clash at Santa Ana Park

A brief look into history: In 1867, a battle took place in the park of Santa Ana in which the imperialist troops supporting Maximilian of Habsburg faced the Republican troops defending the cause of Benito Juarez.

The Republicans, led by General Manuel Cepeda Peraza, won the battle and restored the government to Yucatán on June 15, 1867. He was later appointed governor of the state.

Discover the Eerie Side of Mérida

If you're into ghost stories, Mérida has no shortage of eerie legends.

You might want to take a look at the page about the Parroquia de Santa Ana or browse our collection of haunted places in Mérida. You never know, you might just experience something unexpected while wandering the streets...