Dzibilchaltun Ruins Tours and Tickets

The haciendas of Mexico were part of an economic system that began with the Spanish in the sixteenth century, similar to the feudal system of Europe. They were efficient farms and manufacturing centers that produced meat and other products for export. Over time, the haciendas became symbols of economic health and culture, adorned with architecture, furniture and art from all over the world. Like the southern plantations of the United States, the haciendas reinforced the caste system, based on race, with the hacendados as masters and the Maya or indigenous as laborers. Most of the Yucatecan haciendas in the 19th century produced henequen rope, a plant variety of the agave cactus, which was exported by the growing transport industry.

Discover both the Yucatan capital of Merida and Dzibilchaltun - an ancient Mayan archeological site - on a shore excursion from your Progreso port of call. Begin with a sightseeing tour of Merida, the peninsula's cultural center. View the elegant 19th century mansions along its Paseo de Montejo and pay a visit to the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya - an artifact-filled museum dedicated to Mayan civilization. Next explore the Dzibilchaltun ruins and its intriguing Temple of the Dolls. You can even go for a swim onsite before returning to port.

Immerse yourself in Mayan culture on a full day exploring Merida's history and natural beauty. First, visit the ruins at Dzibilchaltun where you will see the Temple of the Seven Dolls. Visit a museum to learn more about the site's historical significance, and peek inside a typical Mayan home. Finally visit the Port of Progreso to enjoy some beach time in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico before heading back to your hotel.