Santa Ana church is easily identified by the pyramidal spires as well as the raised platform foundation, most likely a former Maya temple platform. The belief is that Santa Ana was the city’s farm where plantations grew food for the city. In the 1700s, it served the northernmost barrio of colonial Mérida with a large population of indigenous Maya and mulattos.
Several galleries and museums are located in this established and growing art district. Santa Ana also has a lovely small market with vendor stalls, fresh fruits, and vegetables. A popular group of cocina economics (small local kitchens) all serve traditional Yucatecan foods and fresh juices. Just one block to the south, you will find more restaurants and tourist shops along Calle 47, which connects to the Paseo de Montejo.
Vendors set up here frequently – seems to be more of a “pop-up” style market sometimes with no rhyme or reason to the days/times. These vendors are set up in the evenings and weekends as well as other days of the week.
Santa Ana Park is a gorgeous place to visit during Christmas. Fairy lights form a canopy in the plaza over the park’s central area. It is quite magical to visit during the holidays.
