Having rented the car from Merida to reach Uxmal, we thought we would make the most of it and visit Yaxcopoil Hacienda. After so many Mayan ruins, we were starting to crave something a little different and a 17th Century plantation sounded perfect. The name Yaxcopoil means “the place of the green alamo trees” which it turns out is a lovely description. The house represents two of the great periods in the Yucatan Peninsula; the pre-Colombian period and the Spanish colonial period, and it was once considered one of the most important haciendas due to its size and magnificence. It is also one of the only haciendas that has been maintained in its original condition. The main building contains high ceilinged lounges, spacious corridors, and verandahs, whilst the surrounding gardens are extensive and luscious. It is a great shame that there aren't more of these beautifully restored haciendas. Driving around you see ruins and evidence of long-forgotten and presumably once great buildings. We did however hear that more and more expats are now buying property to restore, we certainly agreed that they would make fantastic projects! There is also an incredible machine house in the grounds which is where the henequen (an agave plant whose fibres are stripped to make rope) shredding machines live, and there is an incredible German diesel motor made in 1913 stored there. Turns out that the building it's housed in is rather an iconic one, having been featured as many a scenic background for movies.
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AuthorsRob & Charlie's travelling adventures on their long journey back to London after living in Hong Kong. Four continents, twelve countries, lots of experiences. Archives
July 2017
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Robert Ware & Charlotte Nunn |