Historic Significance

Merida, named "American Capital of Culture 2000" was founded in 1542 by the Spanish Conqueror Francisco Montejo. Hacienda Xcanatun, meaning "Tall Stone House" in maya and dating from the late 18th century, was originally owned by Don Manuel Zapata y Bolio, a descendent of the Montejo family. 

Built on what was once a prehispanic community, the hacienda was dedicated to agriculture and livestock production. Later, as one of the most important producers of sisal or "green gold", a natural fiber used in the production of rope, the hacienda gained strategic importance for the marketing and export of this product because of the railroad which crossed its land enroute to the Port of Progresso.

After the Agrarian Reform the lands were distributed among the workers and the remains of the property were sold. In 1988 Hurricane Gilbert destroyed everything in its path, and the jungle reclaimed the hacienda.

In 1994 it was acquired by the present owners and the arduous task of restoration began, transorming Hacienda Xcanatun into a luxurious tourist destination which opened its doors in January 2000.