Campecheno Mexicois the capital of the state of the same name and has a colorful colonial city surrounded by walls that often resemble Cartagena, with the difference that here the buildings only have one or two floors. Declared World Heritage for the UNESCO Due to its historic center, it also has 17 archaeological sites, including calakmulthe largest of the Mayan ruins found to date.
About 600km from Cancun and 1150km from Mexico CityCampeche is strategically located in the middle of the route, a great stopping point not only to rest, but also to discover the beauty of this place.
CAMPECHE AND ITS COLORFUL COLONIAL CITY
Photo: This World Is Ours
Founded in 1540, Campeche was the most important port in Yucatan Peninsula in the colonial period, which explains the fame of the place due to the various attacks pirates that Spanish ships suffered in the region. Today the memory of these pirates is present in souvenirs and stories told to tourists.
THE WALLED CITY
The highlight of what to do in Campeche is its Walled City with brightly colored and surprisingly well-preserved colonial houses. Some sections of the wall are still there, built mainly to prevent attacks by pirates and privateers.
It is worth starting your tour at one of the access doors, the Sea Gate or Earth Gatewhich as the names explain, one is closer to the coast and the other further inland from the city.
The best way to get to know the historic city is to wander aimlessly through these colorful alleys. Some of the most beautiful streets are Calle 63 e Calle 59. In the latter, near Puerta de Mar, there are several bars with outdoor tables.
Calle 59 in Campeche
Among the churches of colonial Campeche, two draw attention due to their grandeur: The St. Joseph’s Church (Calle 63) e Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (Calle 10).
St. Joseph’s Church
The Cathedral is located in the city’s main square, Independence Square, surrounded by very well preserved historic buildings, as well as restaurants and craft shops. If you are interested in learning more about the history of the region, it is worth a visit to the cultural center House Number 6.
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
As you can see, the Walled City of Campeche is simply beautiful, very photogenic. To stay here, the best option is the Hotel Hacienda Puerta Campechea true journey through time.
Hotel Hacienda Puerta Campeche
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FORT OF ST. MICHAEL
One of the most beautiful views of the city is from the Fort of St. Michaela fort built in the 17th century and which today has an archaeological museum open to visitors.
Fort of St. Michael
In addition to learning a little more about history, you have a privileged view of the Gulf of Mexico and the colonial part.
Fort of St. Michael
PIER
Pier is the name given to the promenade in Campeche. Despite not having a beach like we are used to (with sand and umbrellas), the coast is well urbanized and has a beautiful view of the sunset. If you go between April and July, be prepared for heat that easily exceeds 40 degrees.
Foto via Shutterstock
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES
As we said at the beginning, the State of Campeche has 17 archaeological sites open to visitors. The main thing is the impressive calakmul, about 140km from the city, the largest Mayan city ever discovered and today an important biosphere reserve. Nearby is also Balamkaanother important site.
calakmul
THE PETENES
Another biosphere reserve, Los Petenes is a set of mangroves important to the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem. It is possible to take a boat trip here from Campeche.
Boat trip to Los Petenes
WHERE TO STAY IN CAMPECHE
We stayed at Pierin a hotel facing the sea, the Ocean View. It is very American style, but has huge rooms and good value for money. If I could choose again, I would stay at Hacienda Puerta Campechea super charming hotel right in the historic center.
If you prefer large chain hotels, the City Express belongs to a large Mexican group. See more hotels in the city with up to 50% discount.
+ Where to eat in the city: Restaurant tips
+ Miguel Colorado: Zipline and cenotes in the region
+ All tips for your trip to the city
* The journalist visited the Campeche region at the invitation of the Mexico Tourist Board, but all opinions given here are personal and reflect his real experience.
Rafael Carvalho
A native of Minas Gerais, a fan of chicken with okra and good beer, he currently lives in São Paulo. He has a degree in Radio and TV, a postgraduate degree in Journalism and has worked with Digital Content for over 16 years. He has worked for companies such as SBT and Jovem Pan FM. Passionate about traveling, he founded Esse Mundo É Nosso and travels around Brazil and the world all year round, always looking for tips to share.
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