Statue of Guty Cárdenas in Merida Yucatan

Museo De La Canción Yucateca Asociación Civil

Museo De La Canción Yucateca: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and In-Depth Guide to Mérida’s Musical Heritage

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Museo De La Canción Yucateca Asociación Civil, located in the historic center of Mérida, Yucatán, stands as a unique institution dedicated to the preservation, study, and celebration of the region’s musical legacy. Since its founding in 1978, the museum has served as a living archive for Yucatecan music, especially the trova yucateca—a genre renowned for its poetic lyrics, romantic melodies, and profound social influence. Through thoughtfully curated exhibitions, live performances, and educational programs, the museum invites visitors to immerse themselves in Yucatán’s musical soul. This comprehensive guide details its history, collections, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and practical tips to ensure a rewarding visit to one of Mérida’s most treasured historical sites (Wikipedia; Diario de Yucatán).

Statue of Pepe Domínguez in Mérida Yucatán

Statue of Ricardo Palmerín in Mérida, Yucatán

Facade of Museo de la Canción Yucateca in Mérida, Yucatán under a clear blue sky

Facade of Museo de la Canción Yucateca in Mérida, Yucatán

Introduction
The Cultural and Historical Context
Permanent and Special Collections
Exhibition Spaces
Visitor Information
Live Performances and Community Engagement
Accessibility and Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
Conclusion
References

The Cultural and Historical Context

Origins and Mission

Founded by Rosario Cáceres Baqueiro de Manzanilla, granddaughter of trova patriarch Cirilo Baqueiro Preve “Chan Cil,” the museum was created to rescue, preserve, and disseminate the songs composed and performed by Yucatecans throughout history (Diario de Yucatán). The trova yucateca, with its roots in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is characterized by refined melodies and respectful, romantic themes—a distinct contrast to other regional genres. The museum’s home, a restored late 19th-century colonial mansion in the Barrio de La Mejorada, situates Yucatecan music within the wider narrative of Mérida’s architectural and urban history (Wikipedia).

Yucatecan Musical Heritage

Yucatán’s musical traditions are deeply rooted in pre-Hispanic Maya culture, featuring instruments such as the tunkul, ocarina, and caracol. The arrival of Spanish colonizers introduced new forms and instruments, resulting in a distinctive mestizaje that laid the groundwork for genres like jarana and trova yucateca (Yucatán Travel; en-yucatan.com.mx). Over time, legendary composers such as Guty Cárdenas and Armando Manzanero elevated the genre to national and international acclaim.

Permanent and Special Collections

Portraits, Artifacts, and Manuscripts

The museum’s impressive collection includes more than fifty oil portraits of Yucatecan composers, singers, poets, and cultural promoters, many painted by Alonso Gutiérrez Espinosa (Yucatán Today). Personal artifacts such as manuscripts, handwritten scores, antique songbooks, and memorabilia from figures like Chan Cil, Guty Cárdenas, and Ricardo Palmerín provide a personal connection to the region’s musical icons (Casa Loltún).

Musical Instruments and Historical Objects

The permanent exhibitions feature both pre-Hispanic and modern instruments—including the tunkul, caracol, tamborcillos, and guitars—alongside phonographs and rare recordings from the golden age of trova and bolero (WhichMuseum). Visitors can also view original artifacts like violins used by Chan Cil and microphones from the 1930s (101 Museos).

Audio and Multimedia Archives

Antique songbooks, original manuscripts, vinyl records, and curated audio playlists immerse visitors in the evolving soundscape of Yucatán (Yucatán Today).

Temporary Exhibitions and Tributes

Recent exhibitions, such as “La influencia de la música ancestral maya en los actuales compositores yucatecos,” highlight the ongoing relevance of Mayan music in contemporary composition (Diario de Yucatán). Annual events and tributes, like those honoring Manuel Merodio, further enrich the museum’s dynamic programming.

Exhibition Spaces

Thematic Galleries

Pre-Hispanic and Colonial Music: Showcasing Maya instruments and the fusion of European influences.
Golden Age of Trova and Bolero: Featuring artifacts from Mérida’s musical heyday.
Composer and Performer Hall: Multimedia presentations and personal memorabilia.
Courtyard and Sculpture Gallery: Life-size sculptures and busts of iconic artists greet visitors (Casa Loltún).
Audio-Visual Room: Videos and documentaries provide additional context.

Outdoor Stage

A signature feature is the open-air stage with an acoustic shell, hosting regular live concerts, especially on Wednesday evenings (Museumspedia).

Visitor Information

Location

Address: Calle 57 #464, por Calle 48, Barrio de La Mejorada, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico (Museo de la Canción Yucateca).

Visiting Hours

Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed on Mondays (101 Museos)

Ticket Prices

General Admission: $20 MXN
Discounted Admission: $10 MXN (children, students, teachers, seniors with valid ID)
Free Admission: Sundays (101 Museos)

Booking and Group Tours

Guided tours for groups (up to 30 people) can be reserved in advance via email ([email protected]) or phone (Muzze). Tours are mainly in Spanish, but the museum’s visual and musical content ensures an engaging visit for all.

Live Performances and Community Engagement

Weekly Concerts: Every Wednesday, the museum’s outdoor stage features live performances by local trios, celebrating both traditional and modern Yucatecan songs (Museumspedia).
Monthly Events: Special celebrations honor musicians with birthdays in that month, featuring workshops, lectures, and performances (33Travels).
Educational Outreach: The museum offers workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions for students and the public, deepening appreciation of Yucatecan musical traditions (en-yucatan.com.mx).

Accessibility and Amenities

Wheelchair Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible; vehicles for people with disabilities can access the entrance directly with prior notice (Muzze).
Family-Friendly: Suitable for visitors of all ages; pets are not permitted (Yucatán Travel).
Facilities: Restrooms, a tranquil courtyard, and a gift shop (occasionally open) are available.
Parking: Limited street parking; accessible parking by prior arrangement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Museo de la Canción Yucateca visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. Closed Mondays.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: General admission is $20 MXN; discounts for children, students, teachers, and seniors are $10 MXN. Admission is free on Sundays.

Q: Is the museum accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with prior notice for direct vehicle access.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book in advance for group tours.

Q: Are live performances included?
A: Yes, regular concerts are held, especially on Wednesdays.

Q: What nearby historical sites can I visit?
A: Palacio de la Música, Museo de la Ciudad, MACAY, and Museo Casa Montejo (Museumspedia).

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips

Best Times: Weekdays for a quiet visit; Wednesdays for live music; Sundays for free entry.
What to Bring: Valid ID for discounts, camera (check photography rules), and water.
Duration: Allow at least one hour; music fans may want more time, especially for concerts.
Transportation: Public transport stops nearby; taxis and ride-shares are widely available (101 Museos).

Conclusion

The Museo De La Canción Yucateca Asociación Civil is a vibrant testament to the enduring spirit of Yucatán’s musical heritage. Its rich collections, engaging exhibitions, and dynamic live performances offer visitors an authentic and memorable cultural experience. Whether you are a music lover, history enthusiast, or cultural explorer, a visit here provides insight into the rhythms and stories that have shaped the region’s identity. Enhance your visit with guided tours, attend a live concert, and explore nearby Mérida historical sites for a well-rounded and enriching journey.

For the latest updates, events, and visitor information, consult the official museum website or Yucatán’s tourism portal. Download the Audiala app for exclusive content and audio guides to further enrich your experience.