HISTORICAL ARCHITECTURE

In the cities of Valladolid and Izamal, located in Chichen Itza?s surrounding areas, you can admire the impressive architecture of the churches, plazas and colonial buildings, which are Spanish-influenced constructions.

Iglesia de San Gervasio ? Located 45 km (28 mi) east of Chichen Itza, on calles 41 and 42, in downtown Valladolid. Here you?ll see a remarkable Churrigueresque-style construction and two cannons from 1848 that were used to defend the city during the Caste War. Open daily from 7:00 to 1:00 and 4:00 to 8:00.

Templo y Ex-Convento de San Bernardino de Siena ? Located 45 km (28 mi) east of Chichen Itza, on calles 41 and 50, in Valladolid?s Sisal neighborhood. It is considered one of the largest churches in the region. Behind its modest façade, inside you?ll see a 400-year-old Virgin of Guadalupe and a principal altarpiece made of wood and painted in gold, with sculptures and Baroque motifs. Open daily from 7:00 to 1:00 and 4:00 to 8:00.

Templo de la Purisima Concepcion y Ex-Convento de San Antonio de Padua ? Located 73 km (45 mi) west of Chichen Itza in Izamal. This striking convent has the largest atrium in Latin America. It was here where Pope John Paul II gave a memorable Mass in 1992. The buildings in the downtown area were painted yellow and white (the colors of the Vatican) for the Pope?s visit.