Forty five miles east of Merida, off Highway 180 en route to Puerto Juarez, is Izamal, the ancient holy city of the Mayas. Most of the ruins are overgrown with vegetation and are difficult to see. Part of the ruins were covered over by a Franciscan church monastery built in the late 1500s, and they are now being excavated.
The town of Izamal is charming, with a tranquil plaza and carriages for transport, both contributing to the restful, unhurried atmosphere.
