Santa Elena Yucatan: Little town, great history
Santa Elena is a town in the state of Yucatan, Mexico. It is approximately 80 miles from the city of Merida, capital of the state. There are several secrets regarding this little great destination. Some call it Santa Helena, but it is a mistake. Here are some tips on Santa Elena Yucatan.
Santa Elena Yucatan: a little history
Santa Elena was originally a Mayan village before becoming a town in pre-Hispanic times. The Mayans’ arrival in the Yucatan Peninsula began around 2600 BCE. Their migration led to the establishment of communities and the development of a distinct culture.
Over the centuries, the Mayans flourished and built impressive cities. These include iconic sites like Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Uxmal. All these showcase their advanced knowledge of architecture, astronomy, and mathematics. Today, the remnants of their civilization stand as a testament to their remarkable achievements and enduring legacy in the Yucatan Peninsula.
What we know about Santa Elena Yucatan
Very little is known about its first inhabitants. Its name was “Nohcacab” and belonged to the Province of Tutul Xiú. When local people declared the independence of Yucatan and its subsequent incorporation to the rest of the Mexican Republic, Santa Elena became part of the Partido de Ticul, territory of Tekax.
Santa Elena Yucatan: the Puuc Route
This place, besides having the highest point of the peninsula, encompasses one of the jewels of the Mayan culture. It is he archaeological site of Uxmal, cradle of the cosmogonic thought of the Mayas. It is an obligatory point of the Puuc Route.
The Puuc Route is a captivating journey through the Yucatan Peninsula that showcases the architectural marvels of the ancient Mayan civilization. This scenic route takes you through a series of archaeological sites and picturesque towns. This architectural style is characterized by intricate stone mosaics, geometric patterns, and decorative elements that adorn the facades of the structures.
Some sites of the Puuc Route
One of the highlights of the Puuc Route is the renowned archaeological site of Uxmal. Other notable sites along the route include Kabah, Labná, and Sayil. As you travel along the Puuc Route, you will also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, visiting charming villages, sampling traditional cuisine, and discovering the rich history and traditions of the region.
There are also other archaeological sites of importance and architectural beauty. Consider driving to Kabah, Nohpat, Xcoh and Muchich. As well as the exhibition of mummies in a local museum in the municipality.
Festivities and food
In Santa Elena from January 7 to 21 the Santo Cristo de Amor is evoked and we celebrate the Fair in Honor of Santa Elena, this event is held from August 24 to 28 where bullfights and processions take place. Its delicacies include beans with pork, chaya with eggs, chicken stew, stuffed cheese, salbutes, panuchos, pipian de venado, papadzules, longaniza, cochinita pibil, joroches, mucbipollo, pimes and tamales.
