All about Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán in Mérida
Updated:
May 29, 2025
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Author: Tobias
Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY), founded in 1922, is the leading public university in the region and a historic landmark in central Mérida. Its main building, located between Plaza Grande and Parque Santa Lucía, features neoclassical architecture and often hosts cultural events.
Hi, I’m Tobias – a German travel writer with a home in Mérida and a passion for exploring new places.
For over 20 years, my wife (a local) and I have traveled Mérida, and the Yucatán Peninsula. On this site I share real insights on 200+ places.
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Quick Facts: Address & Details
📍 Address:
C. 60 491A, Parque Santa Lucia, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico
☎️ Phone:
↔️ Distance:
⏳ Travel Time:
🎟️ Admission:
💵 Price Level:
📆 Since:
⭐ Rating:
🕒 Open:
+52 999 930 0900
1.6km from Casa Loltún
Within the city
No entry fee
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February 25, 1922
No opening hours available.
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First-Hand Insights on Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán
The Autonomous University of Yucatán is a public university with autonomous status, serving as one of the most important educational institutions in the state.
It is housed in an impressive building with a beautifully designed Spanish-style facade. The university is located on Calle 60, right in the heart of the city.
One of the Oldest Universities
The building was constructed under King Philip III of Spain in 1611 and showcases classic colonial architecture with a symmetrical façade, arched corridors, and thick stone walls designed to withstand the region’s climate.
Inside, the university features a beautifully preserved arched courtyard, characteristic of Spanish colonial design, providing an open and airy space that serves as the heart of the structure.
The Teaching Areas
There are five campuses organized by fields of knowledge for
Social Sciences, Economics, Administration, and Humanities
Exact Sciences and Engineering
Health Sciences
Biological and Agricultural Sciences
Architecture, Habitat, Art, and Design
More than 26,000 people are currently studying at the university (as of 2025) and there are around 700 professors who teach.
The History of the University
The roots of Mérida’s autonomous university go back to the Colegio de Mérida (1618) and the Real y Pontificia Universidad de Mérida (1624). The latter closed in 1767 after King Charles III expelled the Jesuits from Spanish lands.
The modern university was established on February 25, 1922, as the Universidad Nacional del Sureste (National University of the Southeast) under the initiative of then-governor Felipe Carrillo Puerto.
The goal was to create three national universities, one in the north in Monterrey, another in the west in Guadalajara, and one in the southeast in Mérida.
In 1938, it became the Universidad de Yucatán. After gaining autonomy in 1984, it adopted its current name, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY). Today, it’s considered the top university in southeastern Mexico.
Nearby Attractions
Since the university is located in the heart of downtown Mérida, there is plenty to discover in the surrounding area. Right nearby, you’ll find attractions, such as:
Image Source (letters): ©Sharon Hahn Darlin, flickr, CC BY 2.0, Link
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General Tips for Getting Around
💡 My quick tips for getting around:
Start by 9 am to beat the heat.
Keep small-denomination pesos handy.
Respect local siesta (around 2 to 4 pm).
Use sunscreen and wear a hat.
Pack an umbrella during the rainy season.
Download offline maps first.
Chat with locals for hidden gems.
Frequently Asked Questions
📍 Where is Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán located?
Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY) is located at Calle 60 #491A in Mérida’s historic city center, close to landmarks such as Plaza Grande and Mérida Cathedral.
🧭 How far is Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán from Casa Loltún?
Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán is approximately 1.6 km from Casa Loltún, roughly a 15-minute walk or a quick drive through Mérida’s central historic area.
👍 Is Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán worth visiting?
Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán is worth visiting for its historic architecture, cultural significance, and attractive courtyards. It provides insights into Mérida’s academic and architectural heritage.
📚 What is notable to see at Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán?
At Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, visitors can view historic colonial-style buildings, central courtyards, and murals depicting significant historical and cultural events related to Mérida and Yucatán.
📆 When was Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán established?
Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán was founded on February 25, 1922, making it one of Mérida’s historic educational landmarks.
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