Henequen was the “green gold” of the Yucatan. This prized sisal fiber was exported all over the world from the mid-1800s into the 20th century. The wealth amassed was unbelievable for its time and was held by 50 prominent families. Many of these families built mansions in Merida. Paseo Montejo, a broad tree-lined avenue in contemporary Merida, is lined with these decaying beauties. Some are being renovated. Others have become scruffy bike rental shops or torn down and replaced by lackluster modern architecture. Their original elegance has been interrupted by time and the city itself.
MedFlies 