San Bernardino de Siena Monastery
Evangelism is an essential chapter of Mexican history, which is why the country is full of centuries-old religious buildings, and the San Bernardino de Siena Monastery, in Valladolid, Yucatan, is one of the most important. Still active as a church, it’s also a museum to learn about this place and places such as this; from how the evangelization of an entire country was done, to how they extracted water from the cenote underneath—and what they found in it.
Where is the San Bernardino de Siena Monastery?
Second only to the capital of Merida, Valladolid, with its rich colonial history, and approximately two hours away from Cancun, is one of the most important cities in Yucatan.
Like most things to see and do here, San Bernardino de Siena is only a couple of blocks from the central plaza, to the southwest. Finding it by following the signs shouldn’t be a problem—it’s one of Valladolid’s most well-known spots.
What is there to see at San Bernardino de Siena Monastery?
It’s a great place to learn about the history of one of the most important events in the entire Mexican history, not only Valladolid’s; how the evangelization, which reached every corner of the country, was carried out. See several objects, such as a bible and priest’s robes, most of which are—like the building itself—half a millennium old.
Of course, places like this didn’t have access to the modern commodities we’ve grown accustomed to, like running water. This is why San Bernardino de Siena sits over an entire cenote. Learn how they extracted water from the underground, and what it was used for.
A part of the museum is also dedicated to the things they’ve discovered in the cenote itself, as well as how they discovered them, documented by accounts and photographs. Finally, visit the chapel, which is still active today.
Are there places to eat around San Bernardino de Siena?
Though important, Valladolid is not a big city, and everything seems to be just a short walk away. There are all kinds of restaurants and loncherias around the San Bernardino de Siena Monastery to grab a bite in before returning to your hotel.
