Until the early 1980s, the Mayan-themed restaurant and nightclub Ciudad Maya was one of the hottest spots in Mérida.
On Calle 84, directly behind the Centenario Zoo, the abandoned complex is in ruins, though it’s still easy to see why this spot was so popular.
You will notice nothing keeping you from entering and looking around. But to be sure, I asked a police officer on the corner if it was OK.
Having got my green light, I made my way in and was quickly mesmerized by the interior, which is just as elaborate as its facade.
Once inside the abandoned bar, you can make out what must have once been a stage, dance floor, and serving area. When the bar was still active, it was known for burlesque shows featuring the vedettes of the day, many of whom were of Cuban origin. Though this was considered a classy joint, the shows were apparently … errr … rather provocative, to say the least.
Inside the grounds, your attention will quickly be drawn to replicas of some of Chichén Itzá’s most famous monuments.
Perhaps the most impressive of these is a replica of the observatory, also known as the caracol.
The replica of the pyramid of Kukulkán stands roughly 25 meters tall and comes complete with feathered serpent heads at its base. Very very cool.
Also making an appearance is the nightclub’s own copy of the grand cenote, though it stinks to the high heavens as it’s full of garbage.
When you think about it, the ruins of the Ciudad Maya nightclub are a ruin of a ruin of sorts. And it’s ironic that, like its much more ancient counterpart, this once thriving spot suffered much the same fate.
If you go
No tour guides at this site! You’re on your own, but keep in mind that the spot is known to be used by teenagers to conduct … ummm … salacious activities and occasionally host some of Mérida’s least desirable elements. So avoid going at night or by yourself.
