All about Plaza Grande in Mérida, Mexico (2025 Guide)

Alright, I’ll admit it – the first thing I did was snap the classic photo with the big colorful Mérida letters over at Plaza Grande. Plaza Grande – the Zocalo – is the main square in Mérida, which everyone who visits Mérida must have seen and looks at.

It is officially called "Plaza de la Independencia" – and it’s not just the main square in the heart of Mérida, it’s also the oldest one in the city.

Here you will find an overview of the Plaza Grande. However, if you would like to read a detailed overview about all the important attractions at Plaza Grande, I recommend our special: Plaza Grande - The Heart of Mérida.

The Plaza Grande marks the center of the city, and this was already the case in Mayan times. The public square is a well-known city landmark and a popular gathering spot.

As in many parks in Mérida, free Wi-Fi is available, and the main square also features numerous charging stations throughout the area – perfect if your phone battery is running low while exploring the city.

It’s a charming park where I like to stroll or relax on a bench, watching the lively scene around me. The big laurel trees add shade, elegance, and quiet, even with the city just beyond.

These laurel trees also attract massive flocks of birds, which settle in their branches and create a chorus that drowns out the street noise, especially at sunset. However, once night falls, peace and quiet return to the square.

The surrounding buildings are among the oldest and most significant in Yucatán, reflecting the region’s rich history. This means you can explore many of Mérida’s most iconic sights within just a few minutes.

The Iconic Mérida Letters

Like I said at the start, no visit to Mérida is complete without snapping a photo with the vibrant Mérida letters at Plaza Grande. Like in most major cities and towns across Mexico, you’ll find these iconic letters here as well.

There’s also a smaller Mérida sign located across from the Monumento a la Patria.

Here’s a pro tip: If there are too many people taking photos in front of the Mérida sign, snap a picture of the back and simply flip the image on your phone.

Places of Interest Around Plaza Grande

Several notable landmarks surround the square.

Most prominently, the Catedral de Mérida - San Ildefonso (Cathedral of Mérida), the oldest church in the Americas, stands as a historic centerpiece. Additionally, you’ll find the Centro Cultural Olimpo (Olimpo Cultural Center) nearby.

Among the other notable buildings, you'll find the Palacio Municipal de Mérida, a historic structure now serving as the city hall, and the Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Yucatán, which houses the state government’s executive offices as well as a tourist office.

Both buildings are open to visitors, with the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) being particularly worth exploring. In addition to its government functions, it also serves as a museum, featuring many murals and oil paintings.

Here’s another pro tip: The balcony of Palacio Municipal de Mérida offers a nice photo opportunity. If you frame your shot through the arches, you’ll capture the park below, with the colorful Mérida sign in the foreground and the Catedral de Mérida in the background.

The next photo I took shows an example of how it can look. If you want to add a personal touch to the picture, there’s usually someone around who can take a photo of you or your group at the balustrade.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Ateneo de Yucatán (MACAY) – Fernando García Ponce is housed in a colonial palace and features works by modern and contemporary Mexican artists.

Its extensive collection spans from the early 20th century to the present day, displayed across two galleries. Best of all, admission is free.

Right next to the Museum of Contemporary Art, you’ll find the 100-meter-long Pasaje de la Revolución, an open-air walkway featuring rotating sculpture exhibitions by Mexican and international artists.

Just a short distance away is the Museo Casa Montejo, the beautifully restored home of Don Francisco de Montejo, the conqueror of Yucatán and founder of Mérida. Admission is free, and it’s also definitely worth a visit.

Dining at Plaza Grande

If you're looking to dine at Plaza Grande, I recommend Restaurante Picheta, located in a historic 350-year-old building next to the Palacio de Gobierno.

With its charming rooftop terrace, it’s a great spot to enjoy a meal with a view.

Visiting Mercado Domingo

Mercado Domingo is Mérida’s vibrant Sunday market, held every week on Plaza Grande, transforming the heart of the city into a bustling street market and fair.

A section of Calle 60, stretching to Parque Santa Lucía, is closed to traffic, allowing the square to fill with craft stalls, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere.

This weekly market is a great spot to browse traditional crafts and clothing. While many locals come to enjoy the event Mérida en Domingo (Mérida on Sunday), the market is primarily geared toward tourists, which is reflected in slightly higher prices.

Events at Plaza Grande

Every day you’ll find a variety of fabulous events in Mérida - and many are free. Here are two highlights that take place at Plaza Grande and are definitely worth seeing:

• Monday – Traditional Dance Performance: Every Monday, Plaza Grande comes alive with a traditional dance performance. Dancers in colorful regional attire showcase Yucatán’s cultural heritage through rhythmic steps and lively music.

• Wednesday & Saturday – Mayan Ball Game Pok Ta Pok: On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the ancient Mayan Ball Game Pok Ta Pok is reenacted. This game brings ancient Maya traditions to life, showing off the skill and strength it once required.

Be sure to check out all details in our full list of weekly events in Mérida.