All about Parroquia de Santa Ana in Mérida (2025 Guide)

If I remember right, Santa Ana was actually the first church I really took a closer look at in Mérida – mostly by chance, since I happened to walk by with my camera in hand.

The catholic church stands on the north side of Parque de Santa Ana which also includes Mercado Santa Ana. The church has a length of around 70 meters and a width of around 35 meters.

Parroquia de Santa Ana represents example of colonial architecture in Mérida. The park, with the district and church of the same name, is dedicated to St. Anne – the church houses a statue of Saint Anne, who is venerated as the patron saint of the church.

In several writings from the 2nd to 6th centuries, she is regarded as the mother of Mary and therefore the grandmother of Jesus Christ. She has been venerated as a saint since the Middle Ages.

The church was commissioned by former Yucatán governor Antonio de Figueroa y Silva. Built between 1729 and 1733, it follows a Latin cross layout on an atrium, reportedly on the site of a former Maya temple.

The Parroquia de Santa Ana is a popular venue for weddings, baptisms and other religious ceremonies and there are various religious festivals and processions that take place in the church throughout the year, which bring the community together.

In addition, the church is a popular tourist destination due to its central location, historical significance and architecture. The church has been restored several times over the centuries. The last major restoration took place in the 20th century.

Tombstone of Don Antonio de Figueroa

A large tombstone is located on the wall of the bell tower, to the right of the entrance.

The inscription is honoring Don Antonio de Figueroa, a Spanish politician and military leader who served as the Governor and Captain General of Yucatán from 1725 until his death in 1733.

Born in Extremadura, Spain, he was appointed to the position by King Philip V. Figueroa was known for his administrative and military leadership during a period marked by significant challenges in the region.

The inscription commemorates his death in 1733 and his efforts against English incursions in the area, particularly in Valladolid. The stone also notes the transfer of his remains to this location a year later, in 1734.

Here is the exact translation:

"Here lies The Honorable Don Antoniode Figueroa Field Marshal, Governor, and Captain General of this Province. He passed away at the Ranch of Chac Cilic on the 10th of August,1733. After returning from Bacalar, having carried out the extermination of the English in Valladolid, his body was brought to this place in the year1734."

The Ghost of Calle 60 – A Santa Ana Legend

The following story does not take place inside the church, but on the outside. More precisely, in the area of the bus stop in Calle 60, which is in front of the church, and also at other places in the Santa Ana neighborhood.

Several people have reported in the past that they have seen a truly scary ghost in this area. The ghost is described as a white, emaciated man dressed in 18th century style.

Sometimes he’s seen standing by the street like he’s waiting for a bus, or wandering slowly through the neighborhood, biting his own forearm – gnawed down to the bone, with dark, decaying flesh that makes him look like a living zombie.

Interestingly, two Mérida psychics claimed to connect with the ghost and uncover his story: he was a wealthy 18th-century Spanish plantation owner in Santa Ana, employing about 30 workers in near-slavery conditions.

At that time, Santa Ana consisted mainly of farmland, which was given as a fief by the plantation owners. There were repeated uprisings and at times the entire neighborhood was razed to the ground.

During an uprising on his hacienda - which was located near Calle 60 - he was captured by his own people and locked up in his cellar - without food and without hope of release.

In his utter desperation, he eventually resorted to eating his own arm before succumbing to death. He claimed to feel deeply betrayed, as even his most loyal and trusted workers had joined the uprising.

No wonder he became a rather uncomfortable ghost, right?

The adjoining Santa Ana Park

The church is situated right next to Parque de Santa Ana, a square featuring trees, benches, iconic Love Seats, and a central fountain. That said, Santa Ana Square isn’t especially remarkable.

But the Santa Ana neighborhood is quite popular, and you'll find yourself very close to the city center. The adjoining Calle 60 offers plenty of dining and shopping options, and you'll also be in an area known for its art galleries (my favorite is Gallery Caracol Púrpura)

Don't miss Mercado Santa Ana

The Santa Ana market is just a few steps away from the church. Mercado Santa Ana is known for its food stalls offering traditional Yucatecan dishes like Cochinita Pibil and Sopa de Lima at great prices.

While the small market hall is quickly explored, the market is busiest at mealtimes. Its central location and rare nearby parking make it a popular spot, surrounded by shops.