The Abandoned Church in Seybaplaya, Campeche

This place sits among the backroads of Campeche. It is between the small towns of Xkeulil and Hobomó. The abandoned church of Seyba Cabecera is a crumbling yet captivating remnant of colonial faith. Time and nature have reclaimed much of the structure. But its stone walls and surviving details whisper stories of a bygone era. Far from the tourist trail, this forgotten church invites travelers and history enthusiasts to reconnect with the quiet power of heritage and memory. Here are some tips on The Abandoned Church in Seybaplaya, Campeche.

A Church Lost to Time, Built by Devotion

Believed to have been constructed in the late 1600s or early 1700s, the church of Seyba Cabecera reflects the characteristic architecture of Franciscan missions in the Yucatán Peninsula. With its monumental scale, simple elegance, and timeless spiritual presence, the church once stood as a beacon of Catholic devotion for surrounding Maya communities. Today, only its skeletal remains survive—but even in ruin, it radiates dignity and historical depth.

The Abandoned Church in Seybaplaya, Campeche. Architectural Remnants

The church’s atrium was once extensive, enclosed by a stone wall with a beautiful semicircular archway—now partially collapsed. However, you can still see the foundations of the wall and fragments of the original entrance. Inside, remnants of the choir loft can still be found, along with niches carved into the stone and faded wall decorations that stubbornly resist the erosion of time. These small but powerful details offer a glimpse into the building’s former grandeur.

From Seybaplaya to Seyba Cabecera: The Journey of Sacred Objects

Though the church is no longer active, its legacy lives on in the nearby community of Seybaplaya. It is believed that the original altar cross and some of the religious images from the ruined church were transferred to the new church in Seybaplaya, helping to preserve their spiritual significance and connect past with present. In this way, the abandoned church continues to live on through the objects once venerated within its walls.

A Quiet Pilgrimage: How to Get There

Visiting this hauntingly beautiful site requires a short detour off the main road. Here’s how to get there:

• From the city of Campeche, head southwest on Federal Highway 180 toward Seybaplaya (about 18 miles).
• Once in Seybaplaya, follow the road toward Xkeulil and Hobomó.
• After about 9 more miles, keep an eye out—the abandoned church of Seyba Cabecera is located right on the edge of the road.

There are no signs, so it’s best to use GPS or ask locals for directions.

The Abandoned Church in Seybaplaya, Campeche. A Place of Silence and Memory

The abandoned church of Seybaplaya is more than a ruin—it’s a symbol of resilience and memory, quietly marking the landscape with stories of community, faith, and time. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, it offers a rare opportunity to reflect on the cultural depth of Campeche and the enduring legacy of its rural heritage.