Magical Town
Espita
Strolling through Espita’s streets means reliving its colonial past and relishing in a banquet for the senses.
Services in Espita
What Makes It Magical
Espita possesses a fascinating colonial history that lives on in its majestic, colorful buildings. The church of San José is one of the best examples of this with its tall, stately towers and elegant Franciscan style.
The Juan José Méndez municipal market, the heart of the town, is another spot showing Espita’s colonial-era boom. Wandering through downtown’s streets is an experience for all your senses and a journey into the glory days of yesteryear.
The local cuisine is yet one more reason to visit this beautiful Magical Town in Yucatán, with its crave-worthy mondongo stew, chaya greens with eggs, and venison pipián stew.
Why You Should Go
Its History and Colonial Beauty
- The impressive Franciscan church of San José, rebuilt in the 18th century, which possesses a striking elegance and somber architectural style.
- The town hall is another one of the town’s most beautiful old, photogenic buildings.
- The former train station tells of Espita’s vibrant past. Now a cultural center, it is one of the best spots in Espita to snap an unforgettable picture.
- The Casa de la Cultura is an old building that is not only a cultural center, but it can also teach you more about Espita’s history.
At the Very Least
Meander around the town market, called Juan José Méndez, to experience the colors, aromas, and flavors of the town. Sample typical local snacks and dishes and browse for local handicrafts.
Don’t Miss
- Amble through Melchor Ocampo park and enjoy the view from the gazebo.
- Visit the Hacienda Santa Teresa Kancabá, a historic jewel of an estate, home to a mansion and cenote, a naturally occuring pool.
- Try Espita’s famous mondongo (beef stew) and other local delicacies such as chaya greens with eggs, pork with beans, bean-filled panuchos piled with toppings, papadzules (corn tortillas rolled around hard-boiled eggs and dressed with a pumpkin seed sauce), and the venison and pumpkin seed pipián stew.
- Visit Casa Espita, a venerable mansion with a restaurant and lovely gardens.
- Go to the archeological site of Ek Balam, an ancient Mayan city that became one of the most important in the region.