Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatan, is located in the northwest part of the state. It is a colonial city with a different feel due to its geographical isolation from the rest of the country and the strong Mayan presence. Characterized by colonial architecture, Caribbean atmosphere and Mayan cuisine, Merida is sometimes called the "White City," because of its buildings made of white stone and the city's cleanliness. Founded in 1542 by the Francisco de Montejo, Merida was built on top of the Maya City of T'ho. The Mayan buildings were dismantled and the huge stones used as the foundation for the cathedral and other colonial buildings.

Following a bloody Mayan rebellion in the 1840s, Merida experienced a period of prosperity as the world's leader in Henequén (sisal) production. Today Merida is a cosmopolitan city with colonial-era architecture and a rich cultural heritage.