Enjoy the Fusion of Mayan, Spanish, and Lebanese Cultures!
A magic carpet? Yes! Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatán, is a fusion of three main cultures: Mayan, Spanish, and Lebanese! Together, this mixture of people has resulted in the city’s unique personality that is displayed in its architecture, gastronomy, and inhabitants. Merida is a magical city where tradition and modernity go hand-in-hand. Impressive archaeological sites, colonial constructions, and modern buildings coexist in harmony.
Most people are unaware of the Lebanese presence in Mexico. Lebanese immigration to Mexico started in the 19th and early 20th centuries. At that time, Lebanon was not an independent nation; the territory was held by the Ottoman Empire and later became a French protectorate. Roughly 100,000 Arabic speakers settled in Mexico during this time period. They settled in significant numbers in Yucatán, Veracruz, Puebla, Mexico City, and the northern part of the country. Some familiar Lebanese Mexican personalities are Carlos Slim Helou and Salma Hayek.
The immigration of Lebanese to Mexico has influenced Mexican culture, especially food, including introducing kibbeh and tabbouleh and even creating recipes such as tacos árabes. The fusion of Arab and Mexican food has highly influenced Yucatecan cuisine.
Hang On!
So, get on our magic carpet, and let’s take a virtual tour of this peaceful city, to enjoy the beauty of its streets, its Mayan ruins, its architecture, music, and culture. (Videos are courtesy of Yucatán Meetings.)
Let’s fly over this peaceful city.
References:
