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Casa de Montejo

Mérida, Mexico

Casa de Montejo

The 1549 palace of Montejo the Conquistador – his descendents lived here until as recently as 1978. Although the building was extensively remodeled in 1850, some of the original architectural features remain. The ground floor has been converted to commercial use (a Banamex bank with handy ATMs), but

the restored interior of the building is open to visitors during banking hours. If you miss an opportunity to have a look inside, the elaborate facade on the outside is alone worth the visit. Elements of the facade include the Montejo family coat of arms, as well as figures of Spanish Conquistadors standing on the heads of conquered native Maya – a graphic illustration of the new order the Conquest imposed.

Listen to the audio guide for Casa de Montejo Free on WIP — starts by itself when you arrive, even with the screen off

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