For all of the historic mansions the Paseo de Montejo has lost, we’re grateful for the ones that remain. What saved them were the corporations — mainly financial service companies — that realized the value of doing business in a grand landmark building.
But since tourism is such an essential part of Yucatán’s economy, and the Paseo de Montejo is ground zero for strolling tourists, we imagine a future where these rescued mansions are rescued once again.
Wouldn’t many of them be wonderful hotels, guest houses, restaurants and coffee shops? The Starbucks near the old Holiday Inn is a fine example. Whatever you think of an international chain opening up shop on the Paseo — and we’re not too thrilled about that aspect — it’s wonderful that the doors are open to the public, and we are invited into this lovely space.
Having an investment bank occupy a wedding cake of a building seems a waste. Who is really appreciating their surroundings? Anyone inside has their mind on business. And the buildings seem comatose. We’d like to see them alive with people enjoying good times.
Not to diss these companies. They have been good stewards of Mérida’s heritage. And of course, customers deserve dignified surroundings. We just imagine a better use for such emblematic buildings.
Here are some buildings that we think deserve more attention.
1Axeda
2Profuturo GNP
3¡Se vende!
4Shrouded in green
5For Premier clients only
6Inbursa Grupo Financiero
7Strange neighbors
8Fenced in
9Instituto Fonacot
