Universidad de las Artes de Yucatán in Mérida (2025)

The Universidad de las Artes de Yucatán (UNAY), formerly known as the Escuela Superior de Artes de Yucatán (ESAY), is a prominent public institution dedicated to higher education in the arts.

The University of the Arts of Yucatán was established on June 25, 2004, and has been instrumental in nurturing artistic talent in the region. It stands on the site of Mérida’s former train station. The university offers a diverse range of programs, including

• bachelor's degrees in Musical Arts,

• Visual Arts, Classical Dance Teaching,

• Contemporary Dance,

• and Theater.

For those seeking advanced studies, UNAY provides master's programs in Art, Musical Arts, and Stage Direction.

Visiting UNAY

If you're interested in the arts while visiting Mérida, the University of the Arts is worth exploring. The university frequently hosts public events, exhibitions, and performances that showcase the talents of its students and faculty.

Attending these events offers a unique opportunity to experience Yucatán's vibrant artistic community firsthand and gain insight into the region's dedication to arts education and preservation.

You can easily combine a visit to the university with a stop at Gran Parque La Plancha, which is located right behind it. Since this was once the site of the former main railway station and features many locomotives and trains on display, it all ties together nicely.

History of the Building

One of the most interesting aspects of this building is its history. As mentioned before, it stands on the site of Mérida’s former train station, which played a key role in the city’s development.

After passenger services ended in 1997, plans were already underway by the late 1990s to repurpose the historic station into a space for art and culture.

Once the decision was made to move forward, the neo-colonial station building underwent an extensive renovation, carefully preserving its original architecture and many historic details. Today, it serves as a university, symbolizing its cultural significance within the city.

Mérida’s train station dates back to the late 19th century and was once a major hub for both passenger travel and trade. It was especially important for the export of henequén, the agave fiber that brought great wealth to Yucatán.

The station was therefore a central part of Mérida's economic development. The huge site of Mérida's former main train station has since been converted into the Gran Parque La Plancha and is now the largest park of its kind in Latin America.

Technical Superior University Program

In addition to its bachelor's and master's degrees, UNAY offers a Technical Superior University (TSU) program in Musical Arts.

This program is designed to provide specialized training for individuals aiming to enhance their musical skills and knowledge, preparing them for various professional opportunities in the field of music.

Research and Academic Contributions

UNAY is deeply committed to advancing research in the arts. The university's Research Directorate oversees various scholarly activities, including the publication of "DI," a journal featuring academic articles on diverse artistic disciplines.

This initiative contributes significantly to the academic discourse within the arts community, fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation.

Adda Navarrete Sound Archive

A notable initiative at UNAY is the Fonoteca Adda Navarrete, a sound archive dedicated to preserving and disseminating the region's rich auditory history.

This repository serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and the general public, offering access to a vast collection of audio recordings that reflect Yucatán's cultural heritage.

Symphony Orchestra of UNAY

UNAY is home to the Orquesta Sinfónica de la Universidad de las Artes de Yucatán (OSUNAY), an ensemble that provides students with practical orchestral experience.

OSUNAY plays a crucial role in the musical education of UNAY's students, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world settings and engage with the community through performances.

Admission Opportunities

For prospective students, UNAY regularly publishes admission calls for its undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

These announcements provide detailed information on application procedures, requirements, and deadlines, guiding applicants through the enrollment process.

Community Engagement

Beyond its academic offerings, UNAY actively engages with the local community through various cultural extension initiatives.

The university offers workshops, courses, and diploma programs open to the public, aiming to promote artistic appreciation and participation among a broader audience.