The community of foreigners that have settled in the magical neighborhood of La Ermita forced it to remain silent, without serenades or cultural activities as in the past, longed for by the neighbors who have grown up in that area that still retains the air of colonial corners and remnants of the development of the late nineteenth century, such as the red cobblestones of the streets.
The Historic Center of Merida is considered the heart of the city, its neighborhoods tell the story of a place that has maintained its daily life, it is a place of transportation routes, essential businesses, government services, and tourist attractions.
The neighborhood park, located at the intersection of 66 x 77 streets next to La Ermita, went from being a dirt esplanade to a place of cockfighting arenas and cockfights, which is why it was once known as Plaza del Gallo. It was also the scene of musical events and has served as the location for soap operas due to its layout, vegetation, and kiosk.
The Hermitage was founded by a neighbor named González de Ledesma, but its exact date of foundation is unknown, it is estimated that it was completed in 1748, according to an inscription carved in stone at the top of the main entrance of the church.
Today it is one of the most important neighborhoods, not only in the Historic Center, but in the city and despite the arrival of several foreigners in the area, the neighbors who live in the neighborhood are mostly older adults who settled there since their childhood and youth.
Likewise, they long for cultural activities to return to the neighborhood, because they are a distraction for them and also part of the promotion of attractions for visitors and neighbors from nearby neighborhoods.
In contrast, it is one of the suburbs where established foreigners cause some disadvantages for the people of Merida, such as high rent rates, however, the neighbors assured that they maintain a peaceful coexistence, but that they would like to preserve the essence of a Yucatecan neighborhood.
The Ermita de Santa Isabel church also houses a botanical garden open in the mornings and during special events for public visits, with spaces of tranquility and harmony with nature, but also with history.
The neighborhood also has houses, plaques, characters, legends, and cultural material that over the years was forgotten.
