Magical Town
Motul
Famous for its motuleño eggs and former haciendas, Motul is a cultural experience for the senses.
Services in Motul
What Makes It Magical
Motul has been around since long before almost any other place in the Yucatan. Its Mayan history reverberates in the pride the townspeople feel for the local culture and language. Moreover, this rich cultural legacy is complemented by gems left from the colonial period, one of these being one of the peninsula’s oldest churches.
Its former hacienda estates tell of a glorious, prosperous past. Touring them revives this northern Yucatán town’s golden age.
Famous for its delicious motuleño eggs, for being the birthplace of the commander Felipe Carrillo Puerto, and for once having been the hub of the Yucatán’s henequen industry, Motul offers travelers an authentic and fascinating experience.
Why You Should Go
San Juan Bautista Church and former Convent
- Built between the mid-16th century and the beginnings of the 17th century, it is one of the Peninsula’s oldest churches.
- Constructed under the Franciscans’ order, this church named for John the Baptist has somber and austere, yet elegant, architecture.
- Inside, it has an eight-section calendar wheel. It was once used by Mayan communities for observing the stars. This may be the only example of this technique being incorporated into a Catholic church.
At the Very Least
Sample Doña Evelia’s famous, exquisite motuleño eggs (an everything-but-the-kitchen sink concoction combining fried eggs, tortillas, beans, tomato sauce, and more). You’ll find them on the second floor of Motul’s market in the heart of downtown.
Don’t Miss
- Visit the Museo de Felipe Carrillo Puerto with exhibits about Motul’s history and the life of the legendary former governor for which the museum is named. He was known for defending the Mayan language.
- Take a dip in Sambulá, a refreshing, natural limestone cenote pool.
- Stroll and relax in José María Campos park, the heart of the town.
- Visit the nearby former haciendas of Kancabchén, San José Hilí, Ticopó Gutiérrez and Paraíso Komchen. Each of these estates holds a piece of Motul’s henequen history.